Kirklees Council chiefs won’t get enhanced payoffs says leader

Mar 20 2010 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

He said: “We have included members from all parties in developing this programme from day one. I meet with Clr Dodds frequently and he has never disagreed with the process. The whole Conservative shadow Cabinet has also been briefed on the process and no objections were raised.

“The chief executive has briefed Clr Dodds on the proposed changes in senior management structure, while directors have been to meet with all parties to discuss the challenges we face.”

Clr Khan added: “The senior managers who will be made redundant will not have enhanced severance packages, they will only have access to pensions where that is appropriate within the guidelines and their redundancy payments will be based on the same calculations as any other employee.

“As leader, it is not my role to do the job of the chief executive or that of the assistant directors – it is to ensure that we develop the very best services for the people of Kirklees and I do this by setting the policies, priorities and general direction for the council.”

Clr Khan criticised Clr Dodds for claiming officers were running Kirklees.

The Greenhead Labour councillor said: “I am disappointed that a party leader, through pathetic remarks, is playing political football with the understandable concerns within the workforce. It’s irresponsible of Clr Dodds, who I know realises the gravity of the situation.”