The Isle of Wight Council is inviting people with an interest in ethical issues in public life to sit on the Ethical Standards Committee which promotes and maintains high standards of conduct amongst councillors on the Island.

At the end of October this year, the term of office of the current seven independent members of the committee expires. Applications are invited from anyone who lives or works on the Island with high standards of personal integrity. Candidates should be independent of any political party and local government and have an interest in ethical issues in public life.

The role includes attending the Ethical Standards Committee once a quarter in County Hall. In addition to this, successful candidates will be required to attend a number of informal meetings and training sessions on a more regular basis. Candidates should also be aware that the role involves carrying out work at short notice to consider complaints made against members of the Isle of Wight Council as and when they occur.

The Ethical Standards Committee consists of seven independent members, four elected members from the Isle of Wight Council and three elected members from the parish and town councils.

Interviews will be held on either 30 September or 1 October 2009 and successful candidates will be invited to attend a training session shortly after the appointment.

Davina Fiore, Director of Corporate Services and Monitoring Officer at the Isle of Wight Council said:

“It is really important that we have independent members playing an active role in the Ethical Standards Committee to ensure that councillors follow their obligations under the national Code of Conduct that applies to all councillors. We are looking for people with good analytical questioning and interpersonal skills with a good grasp of local issues. The role can be extremely rewarding, as I am sure our existing members would agree, and I would encourage anyone with an interest in becoming an independent member of the committee to get in touch.”