GORDON MATHESON -The leader of Glasgow City Council writes exclusively

THIS is my first Evening Times column since the local government elections.

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I was delighted and honoured that Labour secured a convincing majority and a mandate to govern.

We stood in this election on a proud record of achievement, a vision for the future and a team of outstanding candidates.

We have a first class group of Labour councillors, mixing both experience and new talent from a wide range of backgrounds.

We have new recruits from trade unions, community activists, young mothers and PhD-qualified lecturers. We have a team who have already hit the ground running.

I'm proud to have been re-elected unopposed as leader of Glasgow City Council, following the election, and I'm committed to delivering on every single one of the 100 pledges contained within Labour's election manifesto.

Work is under way to assess all of our primary schools so that rebuilding and refurbishment work can start quickly.

We will deliver on our commitment to build 3500 new homes for affordable rent on land provided by the council.

Our promise of extra child care for three-year-olds will be a real priority and will make a huge difference to Glaswegian families.

And of course the Commonwealth Games will be a huge boost to the city.

We'll be working tirelessly to ensure that we grasp the opportunity to deliver economic, health and social benefits to Glasgow.

These are in addition to the day-to-day matters that affect the lives of our citizens – clean streets, graffiti and dog fouling.

We'll be stepping up enforcement measures to crack down on the irresponsible few who drop litter and let their dogs foul or streets and parks.

The people of Glasgow have put their faith in Labour. We will deliver on our pledges and be a strong, confident voice for the people of Glasgow.

But I am determined to run an inclusive administration in the city and will work with anyone from any party who has the city's best interests at heart.

Last night I met with Scottish Government Ministers John Swinney and Derek Mackay, to discuss priorities for the city.

We had a very productive meeting which looked at the ways we can work together to deliver for the people of Glasgow.

The meeting focused on issues such as public service reform, jobs and the economy, health and social care and transport – all areas where we can work jointly.

A strong partnership between the Scottish Government and the council is key to ensuring that Glasgow continues to flourish.

But it has to be a partnership of equals. Too often, local government has felt that it is being dictated to by central government.

I was pleased to hear the ministers say that they were committed to starting a new relationship with Glasgow, and I will certainly play my part in this.

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