Caution on any election promises
As we have started a New Year, I would like to wish everyone all the very best for health and happiness in2022.
The last year has been one of major disruption and challenges, COVID has caused everyone problems and tested resolve and morale.
The new year began with COVID prevalent placing severe strain on health and public services.
I wish to express my sincere thanks to all health, public and voluntary services for their continued commitment to ensure all services are maintained. I realise the continued strain placed on all.
I hope 2022 allow people a rest with a return to normality.
While there can be criticism of individuals, I am heartened by the continued community spirit and support in all areas of South Ayrshire.
Please thank all staff and remember that they are experiencing the same as you, yet step up and come forward to ensure that everything from opening shops to health is catered for.
With the true effects of Brexit now showing daily in shortage of supplies,
increased costs for materials, and sleaze surrounding UK Government, the year is not starting well.
Despite everything I am proud that your council has made progress and will continue to do so with schools being built, exceeding the target for new houses, the information and Advice Hub achieving national accreditation for its service, winning national awards in many areas etc, and we will continue to make progress.
The 11 years of austerity on local government shows no sign of easing and with elections this year I would caution the promises that come forward.
It is the case that promises and reality seldom meet!
It is easy to criticise but, in most cases, no solutions are forthcoming.
We will seek to ensure that despite diminishing resources and pressure to deliver more, that services are maintained in 2022.
I hope you have a happy New Year.