Can we justify Gaiety cash?

Disbelief and utter disappointment is the only way I can describe the proposed reversal of the previous council’s correct decision to cut the subsidy to Ayr’s Gaiety Theatre.

This new administration may well be seen by some as more progressive than its predecessor.

Nevertheless the fact remains this theatre continues to receive public money from several bodies other than South Ayrshire Council.

Given the restraints by Central government on local authority founding and the precarious nature of SAC’s bank balance, this continues to be an affront to council tax payers in the local area.

And still there are several “Fat Cats” drawing large salaries from the coffers of this wonderful performance space, whilst they continue to blackmail and to con both the local inhabitants and local councillors, with threats of possible closure.

Let’s call their bluff, only then we will witness whether they are truly capable of running a commercial venture or simply leaching on the handouts of well meaning, misguided elected officials.

Perhaps if they were forced to make proper business decisions, some of them would be exposed for what they are, and they should then fall on their sword.

The restaurant next door does well and seems to be constantly busy, perhaps one question that should be asked, is why it’s not run in house with the profits used to bolster the venture as a whole?

Both my wife and I were in the theatre last Friday for the visit of the “Blues Band” and it seemed to me that there were very few empty seats.

So one must assume that with an expensive ticket price of around £ 20 it was perhaps a profitable night.

Disappointingly I also encountered several well meaning good and longtime friends who volunteer in the auditorium.

And still those who make a good living from this venture continue to fall down when it comes to providing paid, full- time jobs for the youth of the local area.

How they or anyone else can continue to justify this position is beyond me.

Jobs should be the first priority and any and all subsidy should have that precondition and prerequisite written into any agreement with South Ayrshire Council. I read with some concern the article published on November 3 – “Call To Save Rural Fire Stations from Cuts”.

When our plans are publicly available to the entire population of Scotland, it is difficult to understand how an elected representative can call for clarification.

I am also available and willing to provide answers in my capacity as the Local Senior Officer, responsible for protecting the communities of Ayrshire with a clear appreciation of the need to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively.

Let’s be very clear. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is leading by example within the public sector in Scotland in setting out an inspiring vision for the future.

One of the benefits of transformation is to strengthen the Retained Duty System at our more rural stations such as Mauchline, Colmonell, Girvan, Maybole, Dalmellington, Cumnock and New Cumnock.

These dedicated individuals are most committed to their communities. I pay tribute to them and take this opportunity to publicly reassure them that no decision has been made to close these stations.

We have a simple choice - we transform and do so much more for communities or stay the same and leave Scotland exposed to new risks.

We have driven down fires in Scotland but we now need a more efficient and effective model to allow us to respond to these emerging risks, such as severe weather.

In return for this new role, our valued firefighters would receive an improved recognition package beyond that offered anywhere in the UK.

The solution we are proposing will ensure the combined resources of the UK’s largest fire and rescue service are in the right place, at the right time - despite the greatest public finance challenges in decades.

But let me once again be very clear and state that no decisions have yet been made. It is right that we have a conversation with our staff and communities.

Rest assured that, if and when changes are proposed, there will be full and transparent consultation with both staff and the communities that we serve. I wonder if you can help.

I found a really unusual walking stick down Ayr Promenade today where the disabled parking is at the front .

Someone must have parked there, looked at the sea and left there stick.

It’s really a work of art , not sure whether you could put a mention in the weekly letters to see if someone claims it back or I will hand it into the police station , but I would like to give it to its rightful owner . I write regarding your report concerning antisocial behaviour in North Ayr and highlighting Oakwood Avenue.

Regarding CCTV I would point out that over the years numerous incidents were detected in this area because CCTV cameras were being actively monitored.

Unfortunately a few years back under different management the attitude was that the cameras were being recorded anyway and no need to be actively monitored which of course resulted in antisocial behaviour activity not being spotted when it should have been and would have given more reassurance to the residents in the area. In reply to the person that dropped five £ 20 notes, I am sorry that this mishap happened, but losing your money was your own fault and yours alone.

Also you say unlike the youth of today, but really anyone could have found that money, maybe even someone older than yourself.

If you’re of a certain age then you can use your bus pass that is provided by the government free which believe it or not young people pay taxes to provide for people like yourself. I refer to the article in last week’s paper ‘ re the pensioner’s lost 5 x £ 20 notes.

Do they know for sure it was “The young folk” who took the money.

After the heartfelt plea and the miserable story hoping someone will donate to help. What purpose did this story serve in your paper?

For very obvious reasons and other miserable pensioners my name should remain anonymous.