Opposition slams ‘unacceptable’ cuts

Opposition politicians have criticised the reduction in Citizens’Advice Bureaux funding, calling it“reckless”and“a bolt from the blue”.

SNP group leader David Stocks unsuccessfully put forward a proposition at the policy and resources committee to delay the changes until a fuller review of duplication between services is concluded next June.

The Airdrie Central councillor described his suggestion as“common sense”and said:“It is totally unacceptable for these cuts to be imposed in this way – this could cause staff redundancies, cut services and reduce bureaux’s opening times.

“North Lanarkshire Council has waited 20 years to conduct a review into possible advice service duplication between it, CABx and the independent sector; it’s completely reckless to suddenly impose cuts [of this scale].

“Tough austerity cuts imposed from the Tories at Westminster means that more and more hard-hit people are turning to the bureaux for help; they’re seen as independent and better placed to pursue complaints regarding councilbased and other matters.

“CABx actually save the council money, by winning benefits claims and saving families from becoming homeless.”

North Lanarkshire’s branch of the Green party also hit out at the funding cuts and criticised the council leader’s explanation.

Local branch co-convener Rosemary McGowan said:“CABx across North Lanarkshire provide vital support for thousands of people on extremely serious issues such as benefits, housing and employment rights.

“Inflicting cuts of this magnitude on the service will mean that many people who seek support, often as a last resort, will now have nowhere to turn when they are most in need.

“Councillor Logue’s comments display a complete lack of understanding about the vital role the bureaux play within our communities.”