Underwhelmed by response

I FIND myself underwhelmed by the logic in Kevin Madge’s response on the issue and disappointed by the vague nature of it (Journal, January 27).

Second homes can indeed be a source for employment – but are we talking about a few hours a week cleaning or does he have more specific figures to back up his claim? I’m missing concrete figures in his repudiation and feel clarification on just exactly how and how much the local economy benefits is needed to justify his rejection of the motion.

That aside, his reply still leaves open the question about the period between autumn and Easter when few tourists come to stay in holiday let second homes (and support the local economy and employ people).

Second homes still take too much living space away from local families whose all-year-round presence would make village surgeries, schools and the local economy viable and supported all year round. A protected ratio of second homes and full-time residents would stop the danger of ghost towns.

With his party in power in Cardiff, I urge him and his party to step up their game. I’m deeply disappointed by the lack of empathy and sympathy for those in need of housing. A 1% increase of tax means nothing for wealthy incomers and won’t be a sufficient deterrent to make the market fairer and more accessible for young local families and financially vulnerable.

Christoph Fischer Llandeilo