Cllr Eades is alarmingly misinformed as to the constitutional role of elected councillors (Have Your Say, November 30).

Councillors make the democratic and policy decisions and task professional officers to fulfil operational roles.

Our coalition government has announced significant funding cuts for the Borough of Poole and have announced that there are many operational tasks councils have traditionally carried out that will cease in part or completely.

In helping councillors set a legal balanced budget, the Chief Executive, as head of paid service, must make the decision to make any post redundant.

With less money and fewer jobs to do, redundancies are sadly inevitable.

I have been aware of these proposals, as have all councillors following the stark report to council in September outlining the challenges we face in setting future budgets.

I have stood beside our officers in advising the unions of these sad proposals and will, over coming weeks, meet as many of the councils employees as possible to explain the position we are in.

I hope all other councillors will join me in treating those at risk of losing their jobs with dignity and respect, not scoring political points.

Cllr Elaine Atkinson, leader of the council, Borough of Poole