Councillor’s reasons for no safe zone

I WRITE in response to the letter from Clarence Road resident and the issue of tolerance zones for prostitution.

First of all I can fully appreciate why some would see merit in taking this course of action, particularly residents in areas where there is an issue. However, as I said in the original article, I would anticipate some would be opposed to this move and the letter writer asked me to explain how I arrive at that conclusion.

The answer is quite simple: through discussing these issues with agencies such as the Violence Against Women Partnership it is clear to see there are many more issues linked to prostitution than meets the eye.

These women do not choose this way of life, it is not a career. Those involved are seriously vulnerable and desperate individuals involved in a world perpetuated by people who seek to exploit them. Abuse can never be seen as safe regardless of its location.

In 2014 the Scottish Government published the equally safe initiative which is a strategy focused on eradicating all forms of violence and abuse towards women and girls, behaviour which is most often at the hands of men and takes many forms including commercial sexual exploitation (prostitution).

Behaviour such as this has an immediate and direct impact that reaches far wider than just those involved, these girls are someone’s daughter, sister or mother.

The argument I would anticipate therefore is this: a so-called “safe zone”, where these men could visit to exploit and abuse women would be out of step with the vision that most people have for Scotland being the country of equality that we all wish it to be.

I would also reassure the letter writer that I did express my understanding of the frustrations felt by those who live in the Arbroath Road area. I also said that I wouldn’t like it to be happening close to my own home. I have a young daughter and would not wish her to be growing up around it.

I do talk regularly with the local councillors and, through my role as community safety and public protection convener, I hold regular talks with Police Scotland on all issues affecting our city. Again I would seek to reassure residents of the importance that we give the issue of prostitution in Dundee.

Finally I’d say that my door is always open for anyone who wishes to discuss this issue. I urge the letter writer and others to contact me. I would much rather we discussed this issue and worked together towards a solution.

CounTillor Alan Ross.

Cou5cillor Ross.