As each year passes a period of reflection is necessary. It is important to take stock on your performance and consider how to take positive decisions in the interests of those you represent. Representing the same locality for twenty four years is a real privilege for me. Having the confidence of the community you serve is very important to me. This does not imply I get everything right. Far from it, but on balance I believe I get most things right.
The impact of social media on those in public service has been enormous. Having the ability to engage with all shades of opinion is essential and needs to be widely embraced. I share the widely held view that as elected representatives we have a duty to be available to our community and take their views into account. Residents need to have increased access to their elected representatives. They want their views taken into account before major decisions are taken. They want a voice and rightly so.
I propose to hold Open House events in the Town Hall on the last Friday afternoon of the month starting in January for those I represent in a Woolwich Riverside. I will be reporting on my activities in the Town Hall and consulting with them on the important issues facing us all in the months ahead. Watch out for further details. We continue to have regular Friday evening surgeries and an additional surgery is being organised in Woolwich Dockyard. Contact me on the Blog or write at john.fahy@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.