Glasgow City Council and Scottish Government pledge to new era of co-operation

May 29 2012 By Joe McGuire

Glasgow City Chambers picture gallery Image 9

POLITICAL bosses from Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government have promised a new age of co-operation between them.

Labour Leader Gordon Matheson met with Finance Secretary John Swinney and Local Government Minister Derek Mackay to renew and improve relations following this month's local council elections.

During the meeting, Mr Swinney, Mr Mackay and Councillor Matheson affirmed their commitment to a productive partnership based on shared aspirations to see Glasgow as a prosperous and successful engine for Scotland's economy.

Mr Swinney set out the importance of Public Service Reform in improving the delivery of services, in delivering economic growth and improving the quality of life for individuals and families across Scotland.

Council Leader Gordon Matheson said:"A strong partnership between Glasgow City Council and the UK and Scottish governments is key to ensuring that the city continues to flourish.

"However, this has to be a partnership of equals and I am pleased to hear the Ministers say that they are committed to starting a new relationship with Glasgow. I will certainly play my part in this.

"There are a huge range of issues such as jobs and the economy, health and social care, housing and transport where we can work together and I intend to work constructively with all partners to take these issues forward."

Mr Swinney and Mr Mackay plan to meet with all of Scotland's council leaders in the coming months.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth John Swinney said: "Today marks the start of a new relationship between the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council.

"Glasgow makes an important contribution to Scotland's economy and today Derek Mackay and I discussed the Council's commitments to the people of the city with Cllr Matheson.

"The Scottish Government is investing in the city and its people, supporting Glasgow City Council in its vital work to deliver the jobs and services that the people of Glasgow need.

"Over £1 billion is being invested in two projects alone - some £246 million in capital funding for the modernisation of Glasgow's subway and £842 million for the South Glasgow Hospitals.

"The scale of investment and the challenges that Glasgow and the Scottish economy face make it essential that local and central government work effectively to address our shared priorities.

"A strong and effective partnership between the Scottish Government and local government is central to improving the quality of life of people all over Scotland and to delivering sustainable economic growth in a tight public sector spending environment.

"Today we had a productive meeting with Glasgow council leaders focussed on our shared commitment to supporting communities and improving health; providing the best start possible for our young people; delivering skills; attracting jobs and improving connections between employees and businesses and businesses and markets through better transport links.

"Our approach to public service reform is key to achieving this and there already good examples of joined-up action in Glasgow."