Communities Need Green Councillors More Than Ever
Local communities facing a "tumultuous time" need Green councillors more than ever, delegates attending the Scottish Green Party conference in Perth heard today (21 Oct).
Addressing the start of the party's three day gathering, Edinburgh councillor Melanie Main urged members to get involved in delivering a record result in the local government elections in just over six months' time.
Cllr Main said:
"There has never been a more tumultuous time for Local Government in Scotland. Local people need Greens now, more than ever.
"Green councillors have fought for jobs, investment in schools, safe roads, green spaces and community say over decisions.
"In 2007 eight Green Councillors were elected in Edinburgh and Glasgow. In 2012 fourteen Greens were elected in five councils. In 2017 we can do so much more with winnable wards and candidates already selected. We could see Green Councillors in the majority of Scotland’s Local Authorities."
Melanie highlighted recent successes of Green councillors across Scotland, including:
Abolition of music tuition fees in Midlothian schools.
Ensuring superfast broadband is installed in new developments.
Webcast council meetings to improve public scrutiny.
Extra investment in walking and cycling.
Secured council support for re-opening the Dyce to Ellon railway as part of the Aberdeen City Region deal.
Won the campaign to protect the Park of Keir greenbelt against inappropriate development.
Worked with Dunblane businesses to successfully resist an out of town supermarket.
A low carbon heating policy for Glasgow City Council.
A dedicated empty homes officer for the city.
Participatory budgeting where people themselves vote directly for how money is spent.