Reward plan for Council staff after Council of the Year win

MOVES are afoot to reward staff who helped Antrim and Newtownabbey Council bag a prestigious national award.

Last month they were named UK Council of the Year by the Association for Public Service Excellence at a gala bash in Bristol.

Antrim and Newtownabbey also won the Best Services Team for its Bereavement and Cemetery Services - and was a named a finalist in no fewer than five other categories.

It was a stunning success for civic leaders, and has been described as a ‘huge accomplishment’ by council officers.

So how do they propose thanking their small army of staff for their role in the success?

In a report to be put before tonight’s meeting of the Policy and Governance Committee they are proposing giving them a well-earned break.

“As part of an overall programme of recognition, celebration and building on the profile of the council, it is suggested that we recognise employees’ contribution to the achievement of the Award in a tangible way,” said the report.

“Therefore it is proposed that as a one-off gesture, an additional half days leave, be granted for use within the 2024/2025 financial year; this acknowledges both the significance of the win and the efforts of our employees.”

The final decision rests with elected reps, but it seems unlikely that they will object - and the item has been recommended for approval.

Mayor Neil Kelly was at the bash - and afterwards he spoke of his pride at their success.

“I am deeply honoured to receive these prestigious awards,” he said.

“This is a huge accomplishment for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

“To be awarded UK Council of the year in a competition with over 300 county, city and borough Councils illustrates the commitment of our staff and quality of the front-line services we provide.

“I would like to pay tribute to the Council officers for their innovation, dedication and determination that drives the Council’s efforts in providing effective front-line services which have been highly recognised at these Awards.”

South Antrim MP Robin Swann also applauded the big win, tabling an Early Day Motion in Westminster congratulating the Council on their achievement.

The motion read: ‘That this House congratulates Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council on achieving Best Overall Council of the Year at this year's Association for Public Service Excellence awards, where they saw off competition from other councils from across the United Kingdom; and further congratulates and acknowledges the work, commitment and dedication of staff, officers and elected members from across all parties who worked together in achieving this reward due to their collaborative approach’.

He added: “I thought it only right that my other Westminster colleagues also had a chance to express their congratulations as well. I believe that this is an immense honour and should be celebrated and noted.”