Agenda item

i. Mayoral Engagements

The Mayor referred to the tabled sheet which highlighted a large number of activities that she had undertaken since July 2014.

In particular with the past few months being extremely busy with Haringey bursting with activities as the year moved from early autumn into the winter period. The Mayor commented that it had been particularly pleasing to see and to visit so many events and activities organised by Haringey own community groups within Haringey, some of which were mention below.

The Mayor highlighted:

·         On 13 September 2014, her attendance at  the ‘Blessing of the Waters’ service and opening of the new school year at St Barnabas Greek and Sunday Schools at St Mary's Greek Orthodox Cathedral N22. This wonderful event was a reminder of the importance of children learning their mother tongue as well as the cultural life of their community.

·         On 2 October, her attendance at  the ‘100th Birthday’ party of a lovely lady called, Alice Wood, an amazing milestone, and a few days later, the ‘live music and celebrations’ atThe Haven Day Centre along with all the residents and staff. It was enjoyed by all.

·         The ‘5^TH Anniversary Celebration’ of The Highway House at Tottenham Town Hall on 18 October was a very moving experience. The Mayor  praised the work of Pastor Alex and his church in supporting vulnerable homeless men who are in need of food and shelter.  The evening fundraiser organised by the indomitable Mrs May Richard’’s MBE and Haringey Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Project at Broadwater Farm was fabulous. It was lovely to see the whole community come out to support her. 

·         On 13 November her attendance with new Brownies at All Saints Church Hall, N6, and on 14 November the Studio 306 ‘Annual Open event’. This was a wonderful organisation which supported people struggling with mental health issues through practical activities such as jewellery making, painting and other creative skills. The displays of the work of the group’s users were very professional and would make ideal Christmas / birthday presents.

Ii . The deaths of  Former Mayor and Councillor, Ron Blanchard and Paul Head

The Death of Former Mayor and Councillor, Ron Blanchard

The Mayor reported with sadness the death of former Mayor and Councillor Ron Blanchard, who was a former Labour Councillor in the Harringay Ward from 1978 - 2006 (Mayor from 1996/97).  He passed away on 22 August 2014 aged 84.

      The  Mayor recalled that Ron Blanchard was an extremely committed Councillor who was remembered for serving the people of his ward and Haringey to the best of his ability. The Mayor on behalf of the Council expressed her condolences to Ron’s family.

Councillors Adamou, Hare and Meehan spoke in memory of Ron Blanchard.

      The Death of Paul Head

      The Mayor reported with sadness the death of Paul Head, the Principal and Chief Executive of the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London.  Paul passed away peacefully on Wednesday 17^th September 2014.

      The Mayor commented that Paul had contributed enormously to Haringey, not just creating an outstanding college but also working across the community, particularly in Tottenham and was a tremendous champion for young people in the borough. He would be remembered for his passion for education and commitment to Haringey and Tottenham.

Councillors Meehan and Kober spoke in memory of Paul Head.

      As a mark of respect to Ron and Paul, the Council stood for one minute in silence in their memory.