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Live since 15 June 2009, the new easy-to-use 'ePetitioner' system is accessible either by logging onto www.birmingham.gov.uk/petitions or directly via http://epetition.birmingham.public-i.tv.
The new facility incorporates both paper and electronic petitions. Monthly progress reports of petitions submitted will be received by the City Council, which already accepts a large number of paper petitions from Councillors on behalf of local residents.
'ePetitioner' allows its users to support a petition by adding their name and address online. Information about the subject is also provided, to put the petition in context and help one to decide whether to sign. The users can also see who else has supported the petition (name and area only).
ePetitioner moreover makes it possible to put one's petition live on the Internet, rather than just on paper. This way, the petition and supporting information can be made available to a potentially much wider audience, giving the instigator the opportunity to gather more names to support the petition.
Councillor Paul Tilsley, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "The introduction of an e-petition facility promises to be major step forward for the city of Birmingham."
The Council says it is "committed to embracing modern technologies and enabling citizens to make the most of the digital age."
Funding for the system would be supplied by the European Union, which would also foot the bill for any amendments and upgrades that are needed over the next two years.
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