Issue - meetings

To receive a presentation from the Executive Director of Place with regard to preparations being made by Dorset Council in respect of EU Exit.

The presentation will be available at the meeting.

The committee received a presentation from the Executive Director of Place, which set out the preparations being undertaken by Dorset Council in respect of EU Exit.  The update covered the work that had been undertaken by the council and noted that an extension for EU Exit had been granted until 31 January 2020. 

It was reported that in line with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s approach, the Strategic and Tactical Groups set up by the council had been paused.  All structures in this area would be reconvened in January 2020.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the presentation and during discussion, the following points were raised:

·                In response to a question the Executive Director confirmed that scenarios would be prepared for from the emergency control centre based at County Hall.  Desktop exercises were undertaken and the Executive Director was confident that the council had the resilience to deal with events, including where there may be more than one incident

·                Work had begun on the issues around recovery following response, which had included discussion with Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council on areas such as support for economic development

·                Close work was undertaken with the Police around social unrest issues, which was an area led by the Police, supported by the council

·                A discussion was held with regard to the EU Settlement Scheme and it was noted that the Home Office had confirmed  the current scheme would be open until at least 31 December 2020.  Relevant people could be advised to register under the scheme if required and it was noted that Citizens Advice could assist people to register

·                The Chairman asked that a further update be provided at an appropriate time.