Getting to know the Chairman - Cllr J Brown
Thursday 27 January 2011
An interview with the Chairman, Cllr James Brown of Carrickfergus Borough Council.
How long have you been a member of the Housing Council and what other involvements do you have?
I have served two terms on the Housing Council. The first was a four year appointment 1985 – 1989 and subsequently six years from 2005 to present. On both occasions I represented Carrickfergus Borough Council.
What would you say have been the biggest challenges to the Housing Council?
Keeping up to date with the various changes in housing over the years. Adapting the work of the Council to retain its relevance and maintain its influence.
I’m sure you have seen many changes over the years. What strikes you as the biggest change and do you think it is for the better?
The development of Housing Associations and the provision of ‘new build’, while welcome in reaching ‘housing starts’, has removed the direct overseeing role of the Housing Council. The monitoring role of the Housing Council has been diminished and thus reduces the democratic accountability.
If you could make one major change to the Housing Council before you leave what would it be?
I would like to see the role of the Housing Council being taken more seriously. The Department for Social Development has in the Housing Council a body of individuals who are actively involved with housing issues. Therefore it would be folly to ignore the potential benefit available from this inexpensive expertise. The return of a democratic role to day-to-day issues would be a necessary advantage.
What is your fondest memory over the years at Housing Council?
In my early days and as new Councillor I was involved in campaigning for the replacement of metal framed windows. This emphasis today on fuel efficiency was even then an emotive issues when draughts from badly fitted windows caused heat loss so even 20 – 30 years ago we were up to date.
Fuel Poverty was not an issue but in the 1980’s it was achieved through campaigning for better windows.
If you could be someone else for a day who would it be and why?
I don’t wish to be anyone else. I have made sufficient mistakes as myself and don’t think it would be fair to place the blame on anyone else.
What has been your worst experience?
In the field of housing I think my worst experience was to have been involved in a case where I was working for a constituent who required adaptations to their home because of a terminal illness. The contractor arrived after a 9 month wait, to put in a shower etc, on the morning of his funeral. The experience brought to mind the need for a better response programme and a need for a more sensitive approach.
Do you have any hobbies, or interests outside of work?
Yes, I am a keen stamp collector, believing that Philately will get you everywhere. It is a magnificent means of relaxing and can be quite educational.
If you were to hold a dinner party who would you invite?
I would bring an architect, builder, banker, tenant of a social housing scheme, someone on the waiting list, the Minister for the Department for Social Development and a private landlord. This I believe would lead to a very interesting after dinner discussion.