Leader praises council
East Ayrshire Council leader has hailed the local authority for ‘ stepping up to the plate’ during the COVID- 19 pandemic and UK lockdown.
Councillor Douglas Reid reckons teamwork has been key to the local authority’s attempts to support vulnerable people during this turbulent time.
He said: “The impact of Covid- 19 on our lives is far- reaching. For the 4700 people in our communities who have been asked by the Scottish Government to shield for 12 weeks, the impact is really significant. We recognised this and quickly introduced a range of measures, in partnership with the Government and the local community, to ensure that they were supported fully and could continue to receive food and medicine. Teams from across the Council have joined together to provide support to our communities seven days a week, be it food, medicine or making a welfare call to someone living on their own.
“Some people may be experiencing financial difficulties for the very first time and others have become more vulnerable as a consequence of Covid- 19.
“Together with our partners, we are continuing to support local families and individuals who have been financially affected by the closure of businesses or who rely on free school meals for their children.
“People young and old alike are experiencing isolation - isolated from friends and families and this makes them vulnerable. Vulnerable to hunger, to loneliness and feelings of fear. With help from our partners, local businesses and local community groups, we have helped to coordinate 1000 volunteers who have stepped up to support others.”
The council Leader vowed that support will be in place for as long as needed.
He said: “This work is set to continue for months to come as the lockdown is gradually eased. We are working very closely with the Scottish Government and appreciate the financial support we have received to deliver the addition meals and food to our communities to date.”
Golf courses are expected to be in high demand as South Ayrshire Council gets ready to open greens on Friday.
Councillor Brian Connolly said he predicts an “explosion of activity,” when enthusiasts hit the courses from Friday.
Tee times will be restricted and golfers can play up to two rounds per week to allow fair access and ensure social distancing. Customers are advised to play at their nearest course to comply with current travel restrictions.
Clubhouse facilities should stay closed according to governing body Scottish Golf.
Independent councillor Connolly said: “I have lots of friends who are keen golfers who have been asking me what is happening.
“I think there will be an explosion of activity when they reopen. Golf is a sport where you can naturally keep separate. Players don’t need to be standing close to each other.”
The Maybole councillor said he is keen to play a round.
The council operates eight courses in Troon, Ayr, Girvan and
Maybole.
Councillor Brian McGinley, responsible for leisure, tourism and economic development said: “Golfers will be delighted to hear that our courses are reopening, particularly as we are experiencing some fantastic golfing weather.
“I can’t stress enough, however, that we are not back to business as usual and it is important that everyone works with us to ensure our facilities can re- open safely in line with current COVID- 19 advice. This means observing the new measures we have put in place to ensure social distancing.
“Our courses are in excellent condition and I’d like to thank the staff who have worked exceptionally hard in recent weeks to maintain them. I know that lots of people have enjoyed visiting the courses as part of their daily exercise routine and they are still welcome, however I would urge walkers to keep to the footpaths and take care when golf is being played.”
Full season ticket memberships remain suspended and a new Flexi- Membership scheme will be introduced. All tee times will be available seven days in advance, on a first come, first served basis.
I think there will be an explosion of activity when they reopen