SNP/Liberal administration have ‘launched all out attack on elderly’

Sep 13 2011 by Alison Lowson, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

DEAR Editor, – In reply to the letter from Victor Clements (PA, September 9), I would relish the opportunity to serve on the Perth and Kinross Council for the Highland Ward and call to account the SNP/Liberal coalition who currently form the administration which Mr Clements is hoping to join.

The council has planning permission to build 12 socially rented flats in Pitlochry but can only afford to actually build six at this time. If elected I will press the SNP/Liberal administration to provide as much affordable housing for local people as possible.

The administration plans to cut £300k from the Community Transport budget early next year. This budget helps to keep public transport running in Highland Perthshire, serving the elderly and those on lower incomes. This cut was voted through by the Liberals and SNP in February's budget. I do not support this cut.

It is a disgrace that the SNP/Liberal Administration is intending to charge the elderly for Day Care Services for which there had previously paid only a small charge. Those who attend day care venues now find that instead of having to pay just less than £3 per week they have to find between £30-£85 per week. The SNP/Liberal administration has been slowly increasing community alarm charges and they have launched an all out attack on the elderly in our community. They have also agreed to charge the infirm for delivery and installation of therapy equipment that is used to help people get their mobility improved. I believe these proposals are disgraceful and Scottish Conservatives refused to support them at the last budget.

The administration has to get its priorities right! Should they be spending an extra £268k on collecting household grass cuttings?

I previously stood as a Scottish Conservative in the former Rannoch and Atholl Ward in 1999 and fought the Highland by-election in 2008 so I know the area exceptionally well.

Both my daughters attended Breadlabane Academy.

I believe I have a great understanding of the issues in Perthshire and those of the Highland Ward.

I know cuts have to be made but what is important to me is that they are done fairly, having the least effect on the most vulnerable.

Should I be elected on September 15 it would be an honour to represent everyone in the Highland Ward.

Graham Rees,

Scottish Conservative candidate,

Highland Ward,

Shoetree House,Butterstone.