Lib Dems force independent investigation into agency

12.00.00am GMT Thu 7th Feb 2008

At yesterdays Council meeting Lib Dems successfully made a proposal to launch an investigation into Burngreave New Deal for Communities.

Liberal Democrats on Sheffield City Council have forced the Council to carry out an independent investigation into a key city agency. The move has come in light of reports in the local media which highlighted possible serious failings in the agency tasked with alleviating deprivation in one of Sheffield's poorest areas.

At yesterdays Council meeting Lib Dems successfully made a proposal to launch an investigation into Burngreave New Deal for Communities. Lib Dems won, despite Labour voting against the proposal, as they managed to persuade the two Green councillors and the two councillors from the Sheffield Group to support them.

The Council's audit team will conduct a full and open independent investigation. It would look at issues including finding if any checks where carried out before the BNDfC employed the services of the individuals in question.

The investigation will answer key questions on how the agency came to employ two individuals who were found guilty of gross misconduct whilst running a similar agency in London. It will also look into if the agency is giving the best deal for Burngreave.

When news of the story broke an independent investigation was ruled out by the Councils Chief Executive, commenting that the agency themselves are looking at the situation. However, Lib Dems don't believe an internal investigation is enough given the obvious conflict of interest.

Liberal Democrats believe that it's essential that Burngreave New Deal for Communities is performing to the highest possible standard. Lib Dems want the best possible deal for people in Burngreave who the agency is supposed to be working for.

Cllr Paul Scriven, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Sheffield City Council, said: -

"I'm pleased that, despite opposition from Labour, there will now be a full independent investigation into Burngrave New Deal for Communities and the issues that have been in the local media recently. It's essential that we make sure the people of Burngreave are getting the best possible deal."

"I was disappointed that Labour voted against the investigation. People deserve openness and transparency when vast amounts of public money is being spent, a notion that seems to be lost on Labour."

"Given that BNDfC is supposed to be tackling deprivation in one of our poorest areas, its essential that they are performing to the highest standards. Tackling deprivation is one of our key concerns, that's why Liberal Democrats are determined to get to the bottom of any potential failings."