To receive a presentation in respect of the serious public disorder which took place in Tottenham.
Additional documents:
Minutes:
Councillor Vanier – Cabinet Member for Communities commented on the shared dismay, sadness and shock at the events that took place in the borough in August. The Borough witnessed the destruction of Tottenham High Road and also large scale looting in Wood Green. The dreadful pictures of Tottenham High Road in flames were beamed around the world.
Councillor Vanier, in stating the question how the riots happened, commented that there was no doubt that the catalyst was indeed the tragic shooting of Mark Duggan by an officer from the Met Police CO19 firearms unit, and reported that, as was customary in these events, the IPCC immediately took control of the investigation and in this case the Haringey Police were not able to make comment to the community. To add to the tension the IPCC released a statement that was later found to be misleading.
Councillor Vanier stressed that there was huge concern in the community about the shooting. Mark Duggan’s family and friends held a peaceful vigil outside of Tottenham Police Station. They wanted answers to the circumstances of his death. After several hours wait and not getting the required response, the family decided to go home. Subsequent to this rioting erupted. It was important to note that the Duggan family condemned the disorder and made it very clear that it was not in their name.
What followed were hours of rioting, arson and looting that left Tottenham High Road looking like a war zone. Police officers were injured, some very seriously. Many residents lost their businesses, their homes, having to leave with just the clothes on their back. They were left feeling bewildered, traumatised, bereaved and as one resident said ‘numb’.
Tottenham residents remain angry about the rioting that occurred in their community. They are adamant that what took place was not representative of their community.
Councillor Vanier referred to the destruction of the physical fabric of this community which was indeed a serious set back but this terrible event had highlighted not only the resilience of the people of Tottenham but the strong sense of community, and humanity of the people of Haringey. The offers of support and help from local people were overwhelming, and the vast array of agencies at the Community Assistance Centre, coupled with the generous donations from businesses and people nationally and internationally was quite humbling. The solidarity of the people of Haringey was further illustrated when residents from all over the borough came to Tottenham to take part in a community clear up. Many brought their own brooms.
Councillor Vanier placed on record her thanks to officers for their quick response in setting up the emergency refuge at Tottenham Green for residents who were made homeless on the night of the riots, and the fantastic work they did to get the Community Assistance Centre up and running within 48 hours. Their efforts were certainly over and above the call of duty.
Councillor Vanier highlighted the first hand experience of seeing the spirit of ... view the full minutes text for item 32