BREXIT to be discussed by Powys Councillors on Thursday

Over the last few months, questions have been asked about the preparedness of Powys County Council for the impact of Brexit when the UK leaves the European Union on March 29.

The line from the council leadership has been to follow the lead of the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA), which has a Brexit Transition Support Programme and works with the Welsh Government on the situation.

Next month all councillors will be invited to a seminar to explain the work being done to help local authorities during a period of uncertainty.

On Thursday, two notices of motion, one from Liberal Democrat - Green group leader, Cllr James Gibson-Watt, and the second from Labour group leader, Cllr Matthew Dorrance, will be put forward for a vote.

They are looking to see the council come up with an official strategy for Brexit.

Cllr Gibson Watt, calls for a special meeting of the Council to discuss the subject..

Cllr Gibson-Watt believes the Council should commission a "comprehensive analysis of the impact" Brexit will have on:

The Powys economy, including individual business sectors, shire and district levels.

The consequential impact on on demographic, income changes, cultural and recreational impact.

Short, medium and long term impact on the environment

Impact on the Welsh language

Ability of PCC to deliver statutory and non-statutory services including impact on workforce and budgets.

Ensure the risks identified are included in the Council's Risk Register.

Cllr Dorrance believes a "bad deal" or "no deal" will be bad for Powys, for jobs and the economy.

Cllr Dorrance said: "The Chequers statement, the closest indication yet of what a final deal may look like, has managed to alienate both Remainers and Brexiteers alike."

Cllr Dorrance wants to see:

Powys Council back a "People's Vote" on the final deal

Liaise with the People's vote campaign and help promote its petition

Write to Powys MPs, AMs, the Secretary of State and the Prime Minister asking them to suppor a People's Vote.

Last month, Council Leader, Cllr Rosemarie Harris confirmed the training seminar on Brexit would be open to all members and takes place on November 7.

On that day Brexit experts from the WLGA will explain the work being done to help local authorities during a period of uncertainty.

On June 23, 2016, Powys 53.7 percent voted to leave the European Union.