Haringey Solidarity Group's views on local and parliamentary elections are pretty clear - elections give the impression of democracy, but when it comes down to decision-making, the elected representative, whether it's an MP or a councillor, is more interested in listening to their party than the voices of local people. 

However, giving local residents the opportunity to discuss key local issues and concerns, at any time of the year, whether or not it's to coincide with the local and parliamentary elections, has to be a good thing.

Haringey Federation of Residents' Associations is doing just that, sending out an invitation to community groups to help plan a resident-led Tottenham Elections Debate.  

This community-led initiative is intended to create a forum for local people to put forward OUR views on key issues affecting our lives and neighbourhoods, and what we can do about these - and to ask that each candidate listens and takes note regarding:

*  improved health services  
*  stronger and more empowered local communities  
*  better children's services and youth services  
*  more attractive streets   
*  well-managed green spaces   
*  less anti-social behaviour
*  environmental sustainability  
*  community-led regeneration & development (eg at Wards Corner)
*  local economy
*  respect for diversity   
*  more resources for public services generally

Details of planning Meeting:

Monday 8 March 2010, 7.30pm,
Tottenham Chances, 399 High Road, Tottenham, N17 6QN.