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NORDEN: Hilary Rodgers (Lib Dem)

25/ 4/2008

I FIRMLY believe that the most important thing for any Councillor is to be aware that it is you, the electorate that come first. That’s why if elected; I will be a listening Councillor.  Listening to your views and concerns.

It is extremely important that you are fully consulted about issues that affect you because your participation should be at the centre of local democracy.

Having spoken with many residents throughout Norden, it's clear you are very concerned about local issues such as, closure of our local post offices, Ding Quarry and also heavy traffic from the site. I have collected a huge number of petitions regarding these issues and am busy ensuring that our local council are taking notice of your views.

People want to contribute to recycling in the borough, which will be of great benefit to us and future generations.  I have been spurred on by residents to ensure I recycle more!

Another issue is about tackling anti-social behaviour. I will actively support more police officers on our streets and support our local Magistrates` to use their full sentencing powers, particularly when dealing with persistent offenders.

I was delighted that the Liberal Democrat Cabinet has decided to sell the Library building to the community, something we have been fighting for over the last 2 years. If the building is to work for all the community then there needs to be strong input from everyone to make it a success.  I want to encourage contributions from young and older people and community groups to create a true community base for all.  Real social democracy!

About myself, I spent seven years doing voluntary work, supporting victims of crime, within the Metropolitan Borough of Rochdale and now work for a national charity, helping victims and witnesses of crime.  I am also a trainer for the same charity, training both staff and volunteers to support victims of serious crime.  My work brings me into contact with a wide variety of people, which enables me to understand and empathise with different sections of our communities.  This is why I am excited about the new use of the library and giving some younger people other things to do with their time where they will not be a nuisance to anybody else.  I work well with local councillors and local people and I do not take your vote for granted like the Conservatives have done.

Three things to remember about me:

• 1. I will never take you for granted.
• 2. I will listen to what you have to say.
• 3. I will do my best for the whole community of Norden.

Many people in the Ward are the 'silent majority' and I would appeal to them to exercise their vote on 1st May by voting for Hilary Rodgers.