Members of the Scrutiny Committee last night discussed a compensation appeal from Isle of Wight resident and father of 26, Peter Rolfe.
Referred to as Mr S in the council report and subsequent discussion, Mr Rolfe hit the national headlines earlier this year – when he was referred to by some as ‘shameless’ and ‘feckless’ – and also appeared in the Channel 5 documentary, Life On The Dole.
Last night Scrutiny Committee member, Cllr Hutchinson (Con), said,
“It seems to me that if we didn’t award the Ombudsman’s £1,000 but only awarded a smaller amount, the risk of awarding a smaller amount or a negligible amount are pretty similar.
“If he’s going to seek a judicial order he’s presumably going to have to get legal aid, on that basis and that we are not forced to give this money, I would give nothing.”
Unlikely to be reduced by Executive
Cllr Stubbings reminded members the Executive had already considered the matter (back in March) and brought forward a suggestion that £250 be awarded.
He added it would be remiss of the Executive to go back on an undertaking already in place.
The vote
The motion to award zero compensation was seconded by Cllr Howe (Ind).
Members of the Scrutiny Committee voted six in favour of zero compensation, one voted against and two members abstained.
Background
Mr Rolfe made a complaint to the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) that the council had not provided adequate housing for his needs (not all 26 children).
He was given a three-bedroom property when he required a four-bedroom property. However, since taking up occupation in the three-bedroom property his family has grown in size and he now requires a six-bedroom property. the council say they only have three on the Island and they rarely come up for occupation.
The LGO recommended the council pay £1,000 compensation to Mr Rolfe, but the Executive agreed to only pay £250.
The LGO is still recommending £1,000 is paid, so the decision will be going to the Executive next Tuesday.
The paper below has full details.
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Appendix 1
Image: © Channel 5 – Life on the Dole
