Unanimous verdict on foodbank raiders

Last week, the Advertiser reported on the shocking break-in at Coatbridge community foodbank just days before Christmas, and how kind-hearted locals rallied round to inundate the facility with donations and financial support.

Ann Turner hit out at the thieves responsible: “That is terrible; just no respect for people and who they are hurting!”

Sooze Smith agreed: “Absolutely disgusting how low some people will stoop.”

Alan MacLean added: “Absolute scum. Hope they get what they deserve.”

Gayle Burns Fleming posted: “Disgusting behaviour from fellow human beings. I hope they are caught ASAP!”

Lorna McGregor hailed the community response to the break-in: “The donations flooding in to the foodbank restore your faith in humanity. Well done to everyone who helped out.

“The culprits should be ashamed of themselves, especially doing it so close to Christmas.”

Our Facebook readers also had their say on North Lanarkshire Council’s announcement that tenants will have to fork out an extra five per cent on rent in the coming year.

The average weekly rent will rise from the current year’s £61.06 to £64.11 in 2018-19 – an increase of £3.05 a week.

It will generate an additional £5.68 million in revenue for the council over the course of the next four years.

Bella Ilario hit out at the plans: “What a joke! This really makes my blood boil.”

Pollee Hamilton didn’t hold back with her criticism of the local authority: “North Lanarkshire Council needs a total overhaul! Absolute idiots in charge!”

Martin McWilliams questioned the timing of council leader Jim Logue’s announcement: “Cheery news from the council leader! Why announce this at this time of year?”

Barry Nolan said: “It seems like all we do is fork out more money to help the council out, and get very little reward in return.

“I don’t think many people will be happy with this news.”

James Barrett added: “At a time when loads of people are struggling to make ends meet, this is the last thing they need.”

Reaction continues to pour in on the council’s proposals to tear down all 17 high-rise blocks in Monklands over the next two decades.

Caroline O’Neill responded: “Can’t see how this can happen within that timeframe. There will be so many people needing re-housed – and where are they going to put everyone?!”

Louise Murdoch posted: “If the council manage to build nice new properties for everyone then I don’t think getting rid of these old-fashioned flats will be a bad thing.”