Former provost slams lantern release plan as‘crazy’
A Kinlochard farmer has described a bid to see sky lanterns released across the UK in tribute to frontline workers as“crazy”.
Fergus Wood, a former SNP councillor and Stirling Provost, is among those calling for the idea to be shelved for health and safety reasons.
The lanterns, constructed from paper with a wire or wooden frame and containing a lighted candle before being set off into the sky, are being promoted on social media for mass release this weekend.
However, the National Farmers Union Scotland are warning it will create a major fire risk and, ironically, add to pressure on emergency services.
Stirling Council banned the sale or use of sky lanterns on any of its property or premises in 2016 and encouraged organisers of events outwith council control to do likewise. Sale of sky lanterns from other premises not controlled by the council is more complex, since it is not licensed and, as such, not regulated by the council.
The move was agreed after then Trossachs and Teith councillor Mr Wood lodged a motion on the issue.
His dog once needed seven stitches in her neck for an injury caused by lantern debris, leading Mr Wood to brand them“a menace”.
He said this week:“We have just gone through a dry weather period which makes the whole concept truly stupid and dangerous.”
Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell, who lives on the outskirts of Dunblane, said:“I share the overwhelming desire to demonstrate our thanks to key workers, but creating more risk of wildfires is not how to do it. Our emergency services need to be focused on our public health crisis, not protecting our food supply and farm animals from sky lanterns.
“We’ve had dry weather, so the risk from a mass release of these things is greater than ever. The best way to support our emergency services is to stay home and stay safe. Moving forward, these products cause litter, wildfires, and injury to animals and should be banned.”
NFU Scotland has called on emergency services, local authorities and politicians to support a complete ban saying the suggested action would be“reckless”and is urging the public to explore other ways to recognise frontline health workers.
NFUS has long supported a permanent ban on the lanterns, which they say can have devastating effects on farm businesses both in terms of fire risk and animal health health. If they land on farms the frame material can also get mixed up into feed, such as silage or grain, and be accidently digested by livestock the effects of which can be fatal.
The union has written to a lantern manufacturer allegedly promoting the mass release and has also written to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service, politicians and local authorities seeking their support on bringing this to a halt.
NFUS President Andrew McCornick said:“It is unbelievable and totally unacceptable We urge the general public not to take part, but to continue to use safe ways to thank our frontline workers.”