Time for a new strategy on Travellers’ sites

Sir, – It seems that Murdo Fraser MSP is just the latest in a series of politicians who over the years have pleaded for something to be done over illegal Travellers’ encampments (October 16).

These pleas have become almost as ritualistic as the cost of clearing up the debris.

Yet it is now nearly 50 years since the need for accommodation for Travellers was first put forward by the late Lord Avebury. While some of the sites have been a model of effective management, too often there is a depressing tale of woe elsewhere: warring factions in the Travelling community itself, a lacklustre approach by central government, a reactive approach by councils, and a bewildered public.

Some people are guilty of downright prejudice, but the majority yearn for a live-and-let-live approach and a sense of responsibility from the Travellers themselves. Everyone is fed up with the cost of all this chaos.

It is time for Holyrood to take a positive approach.

It needs to call a summit of all those concerned and hammer out an agreed programme for permanent and temporary sites throughout the country.

It is no use delegating this to a junior minister helped by officials and councillors who at heart simply want the problem to go away.

A cabinet minister has to take the lead and the leaders of the travelling community must respond with commitment and sincerity.

Only then is there a chance of getting a deal to solve a problem that has been allowed to fester for decades.

Bob Taylor.

24 Shiel Court, Glenrothes.

Picture: Mhairi Edwards. A site blocked off on Arran Road, Perth, where Travellers have returned.