Western Isles Council Cuts (Edinburgh East and Musselburgh Liberal Democrats)

Edinburgh East and Musselburgh Liberal Democrats <Charles.Cavaye@talktalk.net>

Western Isles Council Cuts

February 15, 2010 8:28 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Commenting ahead of this week's difficult decisions on Comhairle budgets prospective Liberal Democrat candidate Jean Davis said, "Reports of cuts to front line services provided by Western Isles Council are alarming to say the least. Contrast these reports with commitments from the Health Board to maintain front line services."

"The council is in a difficult situation. Not to freeze council tax would have significant knock on effects on the available budget but if press reports are to be believed the planned cuts will affect not only service users but also the most vulnerable of council employees."

"It is unlikely that the council will not freeze council tax. The consequent local income from council tax would not begin to fill the shortfall in central government funding so cuts will happen".

"I call on council members to ensure that as far as possible services to constituents be maintained and that a clear action plan examining all levels of Comhairle management be produced and delivered."

"The current sad situation comes as result of the level of control exerted by the current SNP government and while the current global financial situation has a bearing the council's hands are tied in how they can respond"

"Local government should be local. We should be the people who decide how best to support the vulnerable in our community."