Open up public participation at meetings: Intro of a Deputation Policy

Full Title: Open up public participation at meetings by introducing a deputation policy

Principle Petitioner: Jorge Iguzquiza

The introduction of a deputation policy would offer a much more straight forward and accessible pathway for local democratic engagement. A deputation is a request from an individual or a group of people who want to have the opportunity to speak on an item of a published agenda or on a new matter of community interest.

From time to time, individuals or a group may wish to speak to a Committee or Council meeting on an item of the agenda to raise issues they may be concerned about. This allows the Councillors and officers to hear, at first hand, the views of people who may be affected by a decision the Councillors are about to take.

Many local authorities in Scotland have already implemented a 'deputation' policy, but at Stirling Council there is no general provision for deputations at public meetings.

Deputations are an important part of community participation in the decision-making process, providing individuals or groups in the local community with an opportunity to present their opinions and raise their concerns at Council meetings.