Original by Tom Molly, Daily Post - https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/ex-top-cops-pay-revealed-14975494.amp?…
Mark Polin retired last week as chief constable of North Wales Police, but his new salary has already attracted criticism
North Wales’ former top cop will earn £70,000 a year for a minimum of three weeks’ work every month in his new role as chairman of the health board.
Mark Polin, who retired from his £147,000-a-year chief constable post last week, will become chairman of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in September, beating four other candidates to the role.
A Freedom of Information request revealed that the post is “remunerated at £69,840, and the time commitment is a minimum of 15 days a month”.
Janet Finch-Saunders , who represents Aberconwy in the Welsh Assembly, said she was shocked to hear that a post requiring a minimum of 15 days a month carried such a salary.
“The fact that only five applicants came forward in itself may indicate that this troubled health board is considered not a good move as regards career prospects,” she said.
“The health board having been in special measures and Welsh Government intervention for the past three years has already cost our hardworking taxpayers an extra £10m, much of it on consultants.
“I am certain the many hundreds of patients across North Wales who are still waiting for much delayed hospital treatment and operations will not be reassured by the costs associated with the annual remuneration of a new chairman.”
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The appointment of the new chair was undertaken under the public appointment process and the remuneration rate is at the same level as three other health boards in Wales.
“Mark Polin will bring clear direction and leadership to build on the progress already made and drive forward the improvements needed.
“We are also providing more intensive support for that work.”
When his appointment was announced, Mr Polin said: “I look forward to working with all members of the board, including the executive team, to improve health and wellbeing across North Wales and develop a clear path by which to steer the board out of special measures.
“My research prior to selection served to highlight the scale of the challenge we face, but I am confident that through clear direction, leadership, joint endeavour and good governance – coupled with the continuing support and scrutiny of Welsh Government – the necessary improvements can be achieved.
“I would hope my public sector experience, my knowledge of and commitment to the communities of North Wales, and my existing relationships with partner organisations will also assist us all to move forward together.”