Falklands : The Election Manifesto of Philip Middleton
Submitted by Falkland Islands News Network (Juanita Brock) 09.11.2005 (Article Archived on 23.11.2005)
Mr. Middleton has innovative ideas.
Phil Middleton Election Manifesto
Hello, Allow me to introduce myself.
My name is Phil Middleton and I have put my name forward for election as a councillor for the Stanley Constituency. I arrived in the Islands in May 1978, and as a recent arrival was asked to be a judge for the May Ball, before flying off to Darwin Boarding School. My entire possessions packed in a rucsac, and a small suitcase. Twenty seven years later, I own a house and property in Stanley, am married to Stella and we have two sons Teraaka and Leif. Everything that I own, and more importantly stand for, has been carved from experiences gained from life in the Islands.
All those years ago the political scene was dominated by absentee landlords, powerful farm managers and Governor appointed councillors. Much has changed, economically, socially; and with the acceptance of the revised constitution, political maturity and the notion of internal self government based on the concept of self determination.
I would suggest that the next step is the empowerment of the people, through more direct involvement in political affairs and the decision making process. The fundamental role of an elected representative should be to represent the views of the electorate. Councillors need to take a pro-active role in finding out those views. When was the last time a councillor asked for your view ? We send our councillors overseas to attend conferences but somehow the ethos of communication is sadly lacking when they return home.
It takes time and effort to host meetings, explain decisions, listen to counter arguments, discuss problems that may seem trivial and not be dismissive of new ideas or a different approach. It is far easier to suggest that legislation is too complex for general discussion, agree policies without referral to the public on contentious issues; and re-act to concerns or objections with bland references in motions for adjournment speeches.
The Fisheries Bill was a prime example. Described by the Chief Executive as "perhaps the most important single legislative provision that has been brought before this House for many years ", the vote was split with two for, two against, one abstention and three borderline. The latter three councillors stated that there are some aspects that are cause for concern, advantages outweigh the disadvantages, and that those far more experienced in the industry influenced their decisions.
Under the present system of government there is no requirement to explain these concerns, difficulties or advantages further, nor to actively consider what is in the best interests of the Islands overall, or need to consult the opinion of the electorate. A more open style of government would allow for public debate, with an independent chair allowing speakers both for and against to speak, questions from the floor to speakers, and if required a resolution from the meeting. As the “rights issue” seems to be contentious, then that would be the motion for debate, with councillors taking part if they so wished as speakers, questioners or just listening to others. This in addition to meetings held for interested parties from the industry that cover the whole policy document.
Although our present economy is heavily dependent on fishing, it is important not to lose sight of the achievements of the local entrepreneur in providing the basis of a vibrant, healthy and ever expanding, standard of living. Government needs to embrace this spirit, by determining policies, provide core funding and then allow managers to get on and manage their departments without constant interference. We need to encourage new ways to incorporate private sector involvement, even corporate sponsorship to the extent of allowing companies to invest in projects housed within government control to the benefit of the whole community.
We need new fitness machines in the Leisure Centre. Why not benefit from the generosity of local companies by suggesting that an up front payment would enhance a community need, with the company gaining publicity and the use of the equipment for a reduced fee for a year.
All fees gained by the use of the equipment to be put aside to pay for maintenance and eventual replacement.
Members of the football league pay match fees, but complain that the pitch has received no maintenance over the past fifteen years. Solution, hand the control of the pitch over to a sponsor prepared to look after the playing surface for all sports, including school use.
Although our government system tries to emulate that of Britain, we do not follow standard practice and institute change as part of good governance. I suggest that agreed rotation of portfolios is a sign of a healthy democratic process and would negate the perceived notion that our system is based on personalities rather than agreed policies.
I have never quite understood the need to have two councillors on committees, and in some cases this rises to three if the portfolio holder deputises for a Director.
Within the population of Stanley there are an estimated 600 adults on short term contracts, work permits or as accompanying spouses. Within the Community School over half the children will leave the Islands within five years. Our community includes groups from several nationalities. Instead of ignoring these facts, we should be encouraging participation in community activities, including political debate on local issues. Many people feel alienated, particularly spouses, when a more enlightened approach would be to utilise this resource of experienced personnel.
Within the community there are people suffering from mental health problems, depression, and post traumatic stress. For some there are very real difficulties in paying the monthly bills, or getting work. These problems are more acute for the single parent family or the pensioner.
Elected leaders need to acknowledge that these difficulties exist, and find solutions.
Bullying in the work place and in school would seem prime topics for an open conference, whereby all parties could attend to discuss the problem, isolate the cause and suggest answers.
As an employer Government could set the trend and look at ways to help mothers with young children, by provision of child care fees as part of the conditions of employment.
As a community we need to consider at least partial assistance for attendance at college for students with learning difficulties.
The administration needs to implement more robust marketing strategy to increase income, whilst decreasing wastage of consumables and man hours as a better way towards efficiency within the Civil Service, than the cutting back on staff or allowing a service not to functional as the community requires, due to budget cuts.
Over the past 27 years I have worked as a teacher and adult trainer; in the private sector as brewery and company manager and am now self employed running a shop and internet online service for collectors. My volunteer work is youth orientated, mainly through the Scouts.
I am a traditionalist, after-all we still burn peat and grow our own vegetables. Conservative by nature with money; a dislike of waste, prefer plain speaking to jargon or cliché’s.
I am known as an independent thinker ready to ask the difficult question and push the boundaries of what I think is in the best interests of the individual. Prepared to listen and act on promises. Sometimes this puts me in conflict with the establishment, but no one can doubt my resolve to see an issue through, whatever the personal cost.
If you agree that this is the personality required for a councillor then vote for Phil Middleton. We need to change the way decisions are made. Your vote can make this happen. Thank you.
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