18 August 2006
An islands council has been criticised by Scotland's local government spending watchdog for failing to plan for and introduce Best Value.
In a report published this week, the Accounts Commission says that Western Isles Council is currently unable to demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. Without this, the council 'will find it increasingly difficult to deliver effectively for its population', the report says.
According to the commission, the Stornoway-based council lacks robust performance management arrangements. 'Where available, performance information gives, at best, a mixed picture of service delivery,' it says, citing the council's failure 'to plan for and introduce Best Value'.
There is also a lack of policy-led budgeting and of corporate management and co-ordination in procurement, human resources, ICT and asset management.
Members are described as concentrating too much on detailed management issues, leaving less time for strategic objectives.
The council's 'very poor relationship' with the local health board was also worrying.
The commission's deputy chair, Isabelle Lowe, voiced concern about the inability of the council to demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.
But she said the council's new chief executive was carrying out a root-and-branch review of how the authority operates.
She added: 'We look forward to receiving an improvement plan which is specific as to resources, responsibilities and timescales to deliver this important agenda.'
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