An Update of Parsoc, Newcastle 2012
By Jack Johnston at Oct 04, 2012 |
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I have applied to be ‘co-opted’ onto the parish council, a decision is to be made after i have attended the next two meetings. It has a budget of 2000 pounds per annum, half of which is spent on the employment of a clerk. It functions primarily as a lobbying body, having the ears of city councillors and established links with the police etc. The ongoing development of the green belt adjacent to Hazlerigg is something the Parish Council can influence, to some extent.
I have been involved with the reopening of my social club under new management, a process through which i have come to know many of the members. The Club represents community assets in the region of 500,000 pounds and lies at the heart of Hazlerigg Village. I am concerned that part of the club is going to be sold to pay debts, as has happened in the past, and intend to make sure other options are pursued.
In addition i have moved into a Housing Coop nearer the centre of Newcastle where i intend to live whilst maintaining a role in Hazlerigg through the above institutions. The fact my rent now goes to the development of a community asset gives me a great deal of satisfaction. Other than that i have ordered 20 T-shirts from a friend, who advocates Parecon values: “One T-Shirt Closer to Revolution” with the pps logo. I am working towards a MA in Latin America and intend to specialise in Food Security, an issue which I believe is very much entwined with participatory economy.


