We need to lead by our own example
During a month where the world’s gaze is upon Scotland and the precarious environmental future ahead, our own regional response to climate change has been underwhelming.
In my own local area near Ochiltree the continued uncertainty surrounding a proposed incinerator at the Killoch site rolls on.
This is yet another example of big corporate interests overriding the concerns of residents and it appears we still have a long fight ahead.
Recently the Ayrshire & Arran Respiratory Managed Clinical Network stated that the plans would “hasten the deaths of local residents for decades to come”and these fears were reflected by the overwhelming formal public opposition to the plans in the form of written responses to various consultations.
Further, we have seen numerous public protests across the area organised and enlivened by local people who are tired of being pushed around. Unlike those who will profit
from this incinerator – these people live and raise their children here, why is their voice of lesser value?
Barr Environmental are simply hoping we will forget and give up. Well that is not going to happen. Sadly we have also heard recently about the plans to close Guardian Surgical in Ayr and Girvan which will lead to the loss of nearly a hundred skilled jobs from our region.
I have contacted and pushed the Scottish Government on the future of these workplaces but as usual ‘market forces’are the excuse.
I doubt that is any comfort to those who will be out of work.
It seems that no matter whether you are doing well or on the sharp end of economic downturn in our society you are always at the whim of corporate interests.
Well I believe it is government’s role to do something about that.
I don’t think that is too much to ask.