Councillor Tig Outlaw

Councillor Tig Outlaw – Lake North Ward

It has continued to be an honour and a privilege to represent my local community of Lake North for the past three years now. I try to support residents in a positive and objective manner. Knowing that you have helped resolve a resident’s problem is the most satisfying part of being a Councillor but in equal measure, it can be frustrating when you are unable to help people, often in vulnerable situations. In recent months during the pandemic this has been especially so.

With more people staying at home during lockdown there has been a noticeable increase in neighbour disputes which are often the most challenging to help with.

Up until the end of October 2019 I held the position of Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Protection. I very much enjoyed working with the excellent teams in all the services this remit covered, and the IW Fire Service. I was disappointed to have to step down from the role due to an increase in personal work commitments.

However, I was delighted to complete the work of finalising the formation of a Combined Fire Authority between the Isle of Wight and Hampshire County Councils, and Portsmouth and Southampton City Councils before having to step down. This move will protect the future resilience of our Island’s Fire service.

Heading into the next year of my term as Councillor we are in much more challenging times. Many residents have been furloughed or lost their jobs and many small businesses in the area remain under threat. Additionally, many self-employed residents remain uncertain about their future. As lockdown measures are eased, we all must hope that brighter and healthier times lay ahead.

I continue to make myself available to support local residents in my community of Lake North.

Tig Outlaw

May 2020