Those who shout loudest know least

IN the face of significant unfair, and untrue, criticism about one’s actions, or alleged lack of them, the natural reaction is to fight back.

I have always been a fighter and, as a result, have landed myself in hot water on many occasions as a result of it. When it comes to politics, I believe that if you choose to put your head above the parapet, you are fair game. We see plenty of examples of this on a daily basis.

What bothers me though, is that the righteous stance taken by those who scream and shout loudest, is almost always done with the intention, not of pointing out or correcting the error of their ways, but with the intention of gathering the support of the chattering classes, whether justified or not.

We must always be aware of the hidden agenda and be willing to look beyond the pithy statements issued by those who should know better.

Locally, in recent weeks there has been considerable attention paid to several key issues in relation to the future of our schools and local government.

Naturally, any decision that is taken (which will not be by me) will not find favour with everyone. Those who are unhappy are, of course, keen to express their displeasure, but what is unacceptable is that when their behaviour and tone are so intimidating that those with differing views feel afraid to express a contrary view. Fuelled by ready access to social media, this is nothing short of bullying and is unacceptable. All too often those who wade in with both guns blazing, do so from a position of ignorance, merely using the situation as a point