009: Jamie Driscoll (Independent Mayoral Candidate)

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.In today's episode, Alison is joined by current serving North of Tyne Mayor and Independent North East Mayoral Candidate, Jamie Driscoll.Jamie shares insights from his tenure as Mayor, focusing on his achievements despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. With 92% of his manifesto pledges already delivered, including unifying the region under a single Mayoral Combined Authority, Jamie's approach to governance is rooted in pragmatism and a deep-seated belief in public service.From his early days leaving school at 16, to becoming a mature student and later a software developer, Jamie's varied life experiences have shaped his politics into what he describes as common sense rather than left or right-wing ideology. He emphasises the importance of democracy, public NHS, wealth tax, common ownership of utilities, universal basic income, proportional representation, and more—policies aimed at creating a fairer society for all.Today's discussion focuses on:Jamie's Role As Mayor Of The North Of TyneHis Motivations To Be The North East MayorHis Formative Years & Influences Jamie's Career Pre-Politics & Early YearsCommitment To Child Poverty PreventionThe Green Agenda & Job CreationThe Negotiation & Construction of A Devolution DealInvestment In Future Generations & Mental HealthLifting People Up & Not Leaving People BehindUnifying The Region & RecoveryAdult Education & Rural CommunitiesThe Challenges of A Pandemic & Political InstabilityTransitioning From Labour To An Independent CandidateThe Future Of DemocracyTuition Fees & ImpactsSadio Populism & Short-TermismThe Shrinking Of Public ServicesThe Rise of The Right WingMisinformation & Electoral ImplicationsTrust & AuthenticityThe Role of The Third Sector & AusterityIntegrated TransportationSocial HousingTax & Wealth InequalityKey Thoughts & TakeawaysKey Date: Polling day to elect a North East mayor is Thursday, May 2nd 2024. You can register to vote here. Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Jamie Driscoll (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.