CHESHIRE East Council is looking to recruit four people to sit on an independent remuneration panel that advises the authority on appropriate payments for the work carried out by members of the council.

The Independent Remuneration Panel advises the authority on the way in which elected members are reimbursed for their public service.

The panel usually meets two to three times a year but may meet more frequently, depending on the panel’s work programme.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for public health and corporate services said: “We are looking for four people with a keen interest in local government.

“Applications are particularly sought from people with specific experience of the workings of local government, or people involved in the private or voluntary sector within the borough.

Candidates will be expected to serve for four years and, in recognition of the claim on their time, successful candidates will receive a small allowance of £30 per meeting, plus travel expenses.

The chair, who would preferably have experience of chairing an independent remuneration panel, will receive an additional allowance.

Cllr Rhodes added: “The way our members are reimbursed for public service is of interest to many. We want this process to be transparent and, therefore, any advisory role must be independent of the council. I look forward to the formation of this important panel in the coming months.”

Candidates interested in joining the panel should be completely independent, should not be politically active or have a relationship with a councillor or a member of the authority’s staff.

The deadline for applications is Friday, August 16 and those interested in applying should contact CECIRP@cheshireeast.gov.uk