Horses for courses?

I am reminded reading my colleague Brian Riley's blog that a number of us were well ahead of the game in suggesting that none of Babergh's money should be deposited in Spanish Banks.

Scorn was heaped on us at the time, but we were proved right remarkably quickly as can be read here.

The truth of the matter was that a number of us were well aware, because of our previous work experience, that the countries that
comprised the 'PIIGS' (Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece and Spain) were about to hit the buffers. We were ignored at first because 'consultants' to the council thought differently.

Councils are remarkably slow to take advantage of the life skills that many councillors have accumulated before they become members.  This at best leads to frustration and disaffection, and, at worst, some questionable decision making.

To meet the challenges that an organisation faces, Trustee Boards are increasingly subjected to 'skills audits' to ensure that the membership is well balanced and that jobs are distributed sensibly.   A similar process could be undertaken at councils perhaps?

Of course political parties, and later the voters, do not necessarily choose candidates on the basis of such matters.   However once individuals are elected,  it seems sensible to me that those with the knowledge, and even wisdom, acquired from 'real world' experience should receive some recognition and respect.

Sadly, for some reason, this does not always happen.