Councillor’s column
ALASTAIR REDMAN - KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS
Increased costs
This month I raised my concerns over the dramatic increase in costs associated with the ongoing recovery efforts following the October 2023 weather event.
A report presented to the policy and resources committee on August 15 revealed that the costs had spiralled to an unfunded £3.853 million.
The revelation is both shocking and unacceptable.
This ballooning budget is a clear indication of poor financial oversight and a lack of effective project management by the current administration.
It’s imperative that we hold those in charge accountable for these escalating expenses.
The initial response to the October 2023 weather event, managed under the previous administration, was handled with a strong focus on controlling costs and addressing the immediate needs of the community.
However, since the transition to the current administration the situation has deteriorated significantly.
The combination of poor local management, restrictive and wasteful national policies, and a lack of proactive leadership is having a detrimental impact on communities, businesses, and public trust.
Lithium batteries safety concerns
I have expressed strong support for the ongoing campaign to enhance the safety of lithium-ion batteries, particularly in relation to their use in electric vehicles.
This comes as Lord Redesdale introduces a new Bill in the House of Lords, which aims to address critical safety issues surrounding lithium-ion batteries. The Bill is set for its second reading on September 6.
I fully support this vital campaign to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are becoming increasingly prevalent in electric vehicles, and it’s essential that we address the potential risks they pose. I have already written to CalMac’s management to express serious concerns raised by my constituents and myself regarding the safety of transporting electric vehicles, particularly those with lithium-ion batteries, on our ferries. This is not just an issue for Islay, but for all ferries across our region.
The safety of our residents and visitors is paramount. We need to ensure that our infrastructure and transport services, including all ferries, are fully equipped to handle the growing number of electric vehicles in a safe and secure manner.
Winter fuel payments
The decision by the Scottish Government to follow the UK Government in scrapping universal winter fuel payments is nothing short of disgraceful.
Pensioners across Scotland, many of whom live in some of the coldest homes in the UK,
Mid Argyll Climate Café meeting
Jess Pepper, founder of Climate Café, is coming to the Lochgilphead Climate Café to give a talk and discuss climate issues with local participants.
She will give a climate reality presentation, talking about issues and solutions of climate change and looking at it in a Scottish context, on Thursday August 29 at 7pm in the MS Centre.
Climate Cafés are community-led spaces where people come together to discuss climate change and get involved in the local area.
Mid Argyll established a Climate Café based in Lochgilphead just before Christmas, and so far it has had five meetings.
Climate Café started in Dunkeld in 2015, and now has many cafés across Scotland in particular, but also across the UK and around the world.
The Lochgilphead Climate Café is hosted by Time for Change Argyll and Bute.
Margaret McCulloch, who is part of Time for Change Argyll and Bute, said: “We’re feeling really excited that Jess Pepper, who set up the movement, is coming in person to Lochgilphead.
“Hopefully this will encourage people to come along and hear what she has to say and learn what other Climate Cafés do.”
Councillor Alastair Redman talked to farmers and crofters at the Islay, Jura and Colonsay Show. are now facing the prospect of struggling even more to pay their energy bills at a time when they need support the most. This is a betrayal of our elderly citizens, who have contributed so much to our society.
Large parts of rural Scotland have no access to mains gas, and fuel costs are even higher in our islands and rural areas.
By cutting this vital support, the government is ignoring the harsh realities that our pensioners face, especially in these remote communities where staying warm is not just a comfort but a necessity for survival.
The Scottish Government must reverse this decision and ensure that all pensioners receive the support they need to heat their homes and live with dignity.
Islay, Jura and Colonsay Show
I was very happy to attend this year’s Islay, Jura, and Colonsay Agricultural Show with my wife. The livestock displays, the diverse array of artisanal crafts and food exhibits were all very impressive.
It was great to speak with so many farmers, crofters, and small businesses proprietors, and listen to their concerns on important local and national matters. We spoke about feed prices, fuel prices, broadband speed, and the poor quality of our infrastructure.
The show highlights the innovation and resilience of our farmers, who continue to adapt to challenges and implement sustainable practices that ensure the long-term viability of their industry. It’s essential that we do all that we can to support our rural economy. A huge thank you to all the hard-working volunteers who helped make this year’s show possible.