Angus deputation puts forth case for more money to minister

Angus Council chiefs say they held a “productive” meeting with the Scottish Government’s finance minister in their bid to secure more cash for the region.

Local authority leader Bob Myles, finance convener Angus Macmillan Douglas, and finance director Ian Lorimer met Derek Mackay to put forward “a strong case” for increased funding from Holyrood.

Councillor Myles said the representatives from the administration and government both recognised the pressures facing the public sector.

They also noted the “major steps” that Angus Council had made to improve its efficiency and protect public services.

Councillor Macmillan Douglas said 80% of the council’s revenue came from the Scottish Government and the authority would have to save nearly 30% of its budget between 2015 and 2021.

He added: “A constructive dialogue was had about ways to move forward, which could have mutual benefit.”

Mr Myles said the minister appeared to recognise the constraints facing authorities, having been a council leader before he entered the Scottish Parliament.

However, he said he was quick to point out that the SNP’S manifesto commitments had to be delivered, leaving him little room for manoeuvre.

Mr Myles said: “We made a plea in general about releasing more money to the council.

“Having been a council leader himself, Mr Mckay knows how local authorities work and how each one has to work to tight budgets. He is trying to be flexible. If we come up with something innovative, for instance in procurement, then he’d have a look at it.”