Liberal Democrats propose radical devolution scheme for Haringey

12.00.00am GMT Mon 4th Feb 2008

ans to give more control to local residents are at the heart of alternative budget proposals put forward by Haringey Liberal Democrats. The £1.5 million package would provide two dedicated officers for each ward designed to be based in local neighbourhoods and to reflect the individual needs of each community in the London Borough of Haringey. Lib Dems believe that this would give residents a stronger say in how their money is spent locally.

Cllr Robert Gorrie, Lib Dem resources spokesperson, comments:

"Every community is different - different problems and needs. Our proposal seeks to provide a resource to the local community that can be responsive to these local priorities.

"The Labour government and Haringey Council have too often sought to centralise services. This is completely the wrong approach. Local residents know the issues in their ward better than anyone and it is time that we recognised this. The Liberal Democrats are now the only party that would give people a stronger voice in how their hard earned taxes are spent."

Cllr Gail Engert (Muswell Hill ward) adds:

"This is what Liberal Democrats are about - trusting the local community and rewarding that relationship with a meaningful budget that residents can help to decide."