Poppy day support cut ‘disrespectful’
REMEMBRANCE Sunday plans for Lochgilphead are in jeopardy after a lastminute bombshell from the council.
Lochgilphead Community Council last Friday received an email from Argyll and Bute Council with new guidance for those involved in Remembrance Sunday events.
The council will no longer help with the organisation of these events, other than to offer pointers on filling in forms and on legal requirements.
The reason for this, according to the council email, is to standardise the level of support given to organ- isers across Argyll and Bute and ‘to take account of reduced staffing levels and reduced budget available’.
The people behind the Lochgilphead commemoration events are unhappy with the notice given – with barely seven weeks to go until Remembrance Sunday on November 12 and a lot to be done before then.
Chairman of Lochgilphead Armed Forces Day Geordie Rhodick said: ‘The way they have done this is disrespectful to the men who gave their lives.
‘I feel very strongly that more notice should have been given.’
An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: ‘Events to commemorate the sacri- fice by members of the armed services on the second Sunday in November at a number of locations across Argyll and Bute are organised by the local branches of the Royal British Legion of Scotland, community councils or other community groups.
‘In the past, council staff have assisted the organisers of a small number of events by making bookings for planning meetings or providing stationery. However, most events are planned entirely without council input.
‘This is not about saving money. The document is intended to provide structured support and ensure a clear and consistent approach throughout the area.
‘The document gives advice on the aspects of events which the council will continue to do, such as processing applications for public processions.’
Councillor Dougie Philand is concerned this new policy was formulated without discussion with those affected by it.
He added: ‘If we are to empower communities, we must work closely together and not have policies placed upon volunteer groups which make things very difficult to continue.
‘The decision to remove what must be a small amount of support in each area, for a single annual event, can save very little,’ said Councillor Sandy Taylor.
‘I am unhappy with this decision, which did not go before local members. For me, the council is a civic leader and should take the lead. If that involves work, then they should undertake that work.’