Online petitions have been introduced by Birmingham City Council as a 21st Century way for citizens to express their views on matters of concern.
Launched today (June 15), the new easy-to-use system, is accessible via the preview panel to the right or by logging onto www.birmingham.gov.uk/petitions
The new facility incorporates both paper and electronic petitions. Monthly progress reports of petitions submitted will be received by the City Council, which already accepts a large number of paper petitions from Councillors on behalf of local residents.
Those working on the scheme in partnership with the city council include Digital Birmingham and Service Birmingham.
Cllr Paul Tilsley, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The introduction of an e-petition facility promises to be major step forward for the city of Birmingham.”
It will provide an additional mechanism for people to have their say on issues - strengthening and broadening citizens access and participation in democratic decision-making.
As a council we are committed to embracing modern technologies and enabling citizens to make the most of the digital age. This project is clear evidence of this.
Funding for the system would be supplied by the EU, which would also foot the bill for any amendments and upgrades that are needed over the next two years.
ENDS
Notes to editors
1.Service Birmingham is a strategic partnership between Birmingham City Council and Capita which will support a transformation in the way the Council works; improving services and contributing to its efficiency agenda. This strategic partnership forms part of the Council’s objective to find better and more innovative ways of delivering services for the benefit of employees and citizens. The principle of this joint venture focuses on the provision of cost effective, sector leading, ICT services and in supporting the Council in achieving its business transformation objectives.
2. Digital Birmingham is a strategic partnership of private, voluntary and public organisations that aims to establish Birmingham as a leading European digital city by 2010 and to ensure that the benefits of digital technologies are available to all in the city. It is a Birmingham City Council initiative that is being delivered by Service Birmingham. For more information on efforts to make Birmingham a Leading Digital City, visit: www.digitalbirmingham.co.uk/about
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