Why did you choose to stand?
I chose to stand because you deserve to have strong, fully committed, energetic Councillors who can devote all of their time to the residents and communities they serve, without distractions. It’s a full-time job.
I believe in “People, Not Politics”. I am frustrated, as I am sure many of you are, that Party Politics gets in the way of making the right decisions for our rural communities. The Conservatives & SNP tediously try to score points off each other instead of concentrating on what matters most – the people they are paid to represent.
That is why I am standing for councillor – to make a real difference to our lives and effect real change for the benefit of our communities. I will stand shoulder to shoulder with you, in Lomond North, whenever needed and my time will be dedicated to serving this amazing group of communities.
An overwhelming majority of you voted for an Independent candidate in 2017. (40% Independent, 29% Cons. 20% SNP – and 10% others) This time I ask you to consolidate your vote, don’t split it. A vote for me is a vote for action, commitment, energy and passion. Let’s send a clear message on Thursday December 16th – “People, Not Politics”.
Currently Argyll and Bute Council is run by TALIG – the Argyll, Lomond and the Islands Group, a coalition of Conservatives, Liberal Democrats and some independent councillors. If elected, would you join this group
No – I value my independence and you deserve to have a councillor who is not told what to say or how to vote. Independent Councillors are vital to the fair and equal representation of the communities they serve. We need a strong Independent voice to fight tooth and nail for our communities.
What do you think are the four key issues in the future for the ward?
Rural sustainability & lack of investment – our rural communities are under-funded and under-supported, battling to remain sustainable. I have just embarked on three major funding initiatives for vital community groups which, if successful, will secure just under £500,000 over 3 years. I will do more when I am elected
Transport & Roads – poor parking, inadequate pavements, speeding, poor quality roads, lack of cycle paths and the massive impact of tourism are all part of the recurring problems we face. And our lifeline transport links need to be maintained and improved.
Housing – a severe shortage of affordable housing to buy and also social housing to rent is forcing people out of the area. This has a negative impact on our communities and their sustainability. We need a partnership program with developers, and the council, to ensure the right balance is achieved. I will be proactively pursuing this issue.
Care of the Most Vulnerable – Our most vulnerable residents need our help. There are amazing support groups throughout our Ward that are under-funded and under-supported. This needs to change. We can do better and I will be working hard to improve the circumstances of those who need it most – young and old alike.
Currently the council is considering a ‘cluster’ system, which would see several schools share a headteacher and management team. Do you support this policy?
No – and I will stand side by side with parents, head-teachers, teaching staff and the community to fight this shameful proposal. Losing 84 head-teachers across an already decimated education system will undermine the effectiveness of the teaching staff and have a negative impact on the education of our children.
If elected, would you stand again in May?
Yes, of course. Why would anyone even waste their time standing now if they were not prepared to do it all again in May ’22. I will be back in May having had 5-months in the job and I will defend my seat with the same passion and energy that I have invested in this by-election.