4 weeks to go
on Jana Gana Mana (India), 11/Oct/2010 11:06, 34 days ago
I've had an amazing time during nearly 4 years as leader of Norfolk County Council but today is my last day. I'm hopeless at goodbyes but just about held it together during my speech.....Mr. Chairman, colleagues.It's been the honour of my life to be your Leader. So many of you have written the past few weeks to say thanks - but it isI, that should say as much to you. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity you gave me to serve in this role.I was always taught that it doesn't matter what you do in life as long as you do it to the best of your ability. And that is what I have always endeavoured to do.When I became leader, I knew that I wasn’t taking on a 9 to 5 role. But I was determined to give it my all - not just for the Council but for my County. Because I wanted to give back toNorfolka tiny bit of whatNorfolkhas given to me.Now, I really don’t feel comfortable talking up my achievements, it’s just not me.  Any thing I achieved, I achieved because of the hard work of others. And of course, the things I didn't achieve were, of course, entirely due to the vagaries of politics!But I cannot avoid mentioning the unitary issue. It brought many highs and lows– in particular, the low of seeing a Government willing to subvert their own process in order to achieve a political goal. Followed by the high of taking on the Government in the High Court – and winning!I believed politics was a tough business. I still believe this. Of course, there is conflict involving power and resources. But not all politics is confrontational and although attempts to score political blows do dominate the headlines, there are many less confrontational arenas. In committees and working groups, the focus is on working cooperatively to inquire into issues of significance and to scrutinise the Executive. This sort of cooperation provides some relief from a political landscape thatcanbe partisan and it should be highlighted more often, as we are not driven by party ideology or petty political point scoring.Being a politician involves long hours and invasions of privacy. Today I must pay tribute to my wife and family who have always been very supportive although there were times they must have cursed the democratic system. In fact, let's be honest about it - there were times when they did curse the democratic system and me too! For some unknown reason it seems that there is always an important event or meeting on birthdays or anniversaries or almost any date of significance!Lastly, and most importantly, my thanks to you– colleagues – you make me feel proud. The ethos of public service is strong inNorfolk.Everyone of you has made a sacrifice to take on the role ofCountyCouncillorand your dedication to first and foremost to public service is admirable. In particular, I would like to thank the Cabinet members who have supported me– past and present, and my 2 deputies – Harry Humphrey and Derrick Murphy.And throughout a time when this Council has faced the financial pressures and service challenges, our Officers have stepped up, taken that challenge and delivered. I cannot believe that you will find a more talented and committed team in local government.Well today, I am stepping away from the hurly burly of politics but I will take with me many memories of a role that was stimulating, fulfilling, challenging and usually far too busy. I will take with me memories of people who have been abusive and confrontational - and sometimes, believe it or not, some who actually agreed with me!I thank you for your kindness and support. I have many wonderful memories and I have made many, many good friends.Politics is my past. My interest is in the future. After all, as the old saying goes I am going to spend the rest of my life there.With that, that is all. I wish you good luck, thank you and good bye.