The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Landmines for loch litter louts ‘joke’ defended
Councillor insists social media comments were ‘tongue in cheek’ following criticism
A councillor has defended comments about using shotguns and landmines to deal with lochside litter louts as “tongue in cheek”.
Councillor Ian James, who represents the Strathtay ward, joked on Facebook about using the weaponry a little over a day before 57-year-old estate worker Jimmy Mclean was allegedly stabbed in the early hours of May 31 at Clunie Loch, near Blairgowrie.
In a conversation with another person, he wrote “Have you got any landmines??” and to the response “Could make some”, he replied “Yes please. Bring your shotgun too”.
Both comments were accompanied with laughing emojis.
Scores of tourists have flocked to the idyllic loch and nearby beauty spots since lockdown guidance was relaxed.
Mr James made the remarks in relation to frequent mess he has been clearing up at Loch Marlee, two miles from Clunie Loch.
The Conservative had posted photographs of litter left behind by visitors on May 29.
He said: “I’m a Marmite character, you either like me or dislike me.
“It was intentionally a joke with a personal friend who is a pest controller. It was tongue in cheek.
“Jimmy (Mclean) is a personal friend and I hope and pray he gets the justice he deserves.
“It’s not just Marlee Loch where this is happening but the whole of the UK. The loch had stayed looking lovely all through lockdown but recently people have been trashing it.
“I’ve spent hours picking up rubbish and taken wheelbarrows full away. I fill a bin bag everyday and I’m fed up of it.
“I really hope that now the recycling centres are back open, this blight of fly-tipping stops.”
However, fellow Strathtay ward councillor Grant Laing has condemned the comments.
The SNP member said: “It is nothing to do with how much anyone likes Ian or not. To joke on social media about landmines and shotguns is inappropriate for an elected member.
“Ian should just apologise and do what he can to reinforce the clear message that people should only take part in recreational activities close to their own home.”
A man has been charged in connection with the incident in which Mr Mclean was injured.