Wardens one of many cuts

Liz Spanswick, Claddach, Portnahaven, Islay

If it is true that the number of dog wardens for Argyll and Bute has been reduced from 13 to four since 2018, questions need to be asked about this matter.

Firstly, why was this allowed to happen in the first place? If Argyll and Bute Council funding from central government was reduced, who at the council was fighting the case for these cuts to services to be scrapped?

Secondly, can the council employ at least one dog warden for the Mid Argyll area to try and enforce the existing legislation to keep paths tidier from dog mess? If there is little chance of dog owners being prosecuted for not picking up after their dog, the paths and streets will become worse for others to use.

Thirdly, with other cuts to public services having taken place recently, such as the closure of the town’s police station at night, and the closure of Knapdale Assessment Unit at the Mid Argyll Hospital, can taxpayers expect a reduction in their council tax if they are paying the same, if not more, yet aren’t receiving the same services in return?

It’s unacceptable for public services to be continually reduced every year without any proper consultation with the public. If councils’ budgets are being reduced, this must be challenged at the highest level to avoid the situation becoming worse. The frontline council staff emptying our ▍ rubbish and keeping our streets clean, and elsewhere dealing with the public, should be supported by their employer.

Constant talk of more cuts to services is unfair on these staff and should be avoided. signs of stress. Stress can start as a simple worry and grow into panic, and leave them feeling shaky, nervous, tired, frustrated or upset.

Some children may try to hide how they are feeling because they worry they won’t be taken seriously, while believe others won’t understand or feel that no one can help them. And it is important to have a conversation with them.

Childline is here for every child and young person, and our specially trained counsellors are also ready 24/7 to discuss worries about stress and other concerns free on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk

Adeniyi Alade, head of Childline for

Scotland

At The Argyllshire Advertiser, we endeavour to ensure all our reports are fair and accurate and comply with the Editors’ Code of Practice set by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). We realise, however, that mistakes happen from time to time. If you think we have made a significant mistake and you wish to discuss this with us, please let us know as soon as possible by any of the three methods: emailing editor@argyllshireadvertiser.co.uk; telephoning the senior reporter on 01546 602345 or write to the Group Editor at Wyvex Media, Crannog Lane, Lochavullin estate, Oban, PA34 4HB. We will try to resolve your issue in a timeous, reasonable and amicable manner. However, if you are unsatisfied with our response, you can contact IPSO, which will investigate the matter. You can call IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or email inquiries@ipso.co.uk. IPSO is an independent body that deals with complaints about the editorial content. We will abide by its decision.