Cardiff Post Article January 2006

I attended a meeting on Saturday morning at which several hundred parents, musicians and local people were present.  The reason for the meeting was to protest against a proposal mooted by Cardiff Council to close the Friary.

 

Since this proposal became public, a number of people have contacted myself and other councillors expressing their grave concern.  One local resident from Rhiwbina set out a number of very pertinent points which I started to read out at the last Council Meeting.  I was exceptionally disappointed that the Lord Mayor stopped me making the points, which were leading to the question.  I have read all the correspondence I have received and fully understand the anxiety and trepidation about the future of this much needed and used facility which services the Capital City of Wales.

 

As a former primary school teacher and pianist myself, I have seen what excellent work goes on in the Friary.  It is based in the centre of town which is accessible for people across the City.  I would like to put on record my assurance that I will vote against any proposals during the budget vote at the end of February 2006 to close the Friary.  If you would like to support the campaign, please log on to www.savethecardifffriary.co.uk or contact me using my details below.

 

Thank you to all the residents who have contacted me regarding the Council's impending budget debate at the end of February 2006.  I am in the process of collating all suggestions and working the ideas into my speech.  The suggestions have included cutting out a large proportion from the consultants budget, cutting out waste and unnecessary bureaucracy and looking at how the council can make a series of small savings which will add up to a considerable sum when totalled.

 

I have a public meeting on Monday 13^th February, from 6.30pm – 8pm to discuss the pending Schools Reorganisation Plan.  If you would like to attend, please contact me and I will send you the accompanying documentation either via the post, or E-Mail.  This meeting will brief local residents as to the progress made since the last meeting in December 2005 held at Llanishen Fach Primary School.

 

If I can be of assistance, please telephone me on 029 2062 7757, 079 7001 3332 or E-Mail jcowan@cardiff.gov.uk