Issue - meetings

Report of the Assistant Chief Executive – People and Organisational Development. – To review the Council’s Pensions Policy Statement on the use of its discretionary powers

The Committee considered a report reviewing the Council’s Pensions Policy Statement on the use of its discretionary powers.

The report sought approval for limited use of the discretionary power to enhance an employees termination package within the limits set by HM Revenues and Customs. This additional flexibility would enable to the Council to award added membership, added pension or monetary compensation in certain circumstances. Awards of this type would require the approval of the Chief Financial Officer and Head of HR and in the case of first and second tier officers would require Member approval.

The associated costs with any award would be met from the relevant Service / Business Unit budget.

The Committee discussed this proposal and concerns were raised that this may lead to senior officers leaving the authority with what may be perceived as a ‘pay off’. Concern was also raised that this would lead to pressure being placed on Members to award packages and allow officers to take early retirement.

Given the current financial climate and the impression that this may create there was agreement that the report should be deferred to the next meeting and that officers should include specific examples of the types of circumstances where such awards could be justified on the grounds of efficiency savings.

RESOLVED:

That the report be deferred and that a revised report should be submitted to the next meeting setting out specific examples of how the option would support efficiency savings.