GREENS SECURE WINS BUT SAY BUDGET FALLS SHORT
Scottish Green MSPs today welcomed moves by the Scottish Government to increase spending on energy efficiency and on cycling and walking infrastructure but warned that the 2015-16 budget still falls short.
During discussions with ministers over the 2015-16 budget, the Greens urged a greater focus on insulating homes and sustainable travel, as well as funding for local authorities, public sector pay and wave energy.
Patrick Harvie, Scottish Green MSP for Glasgow, said:
"Increasing investment in fuel poverty measures by £20million is a welcome step but is still below what's really required. 40 per cent of Scottish households - at 940,000 a record number - are suffering. We must ramp up our efforts to eradicate this national scandal.
"It's also disappointing that the Scottish Government continues to keep local authorities in an armlock on raising revenue, and that the public sector pay freeze is set to stay."
Alison Johnstone, Scottish Green MSP for Lothian, said:
"The voices calling for serious investment in cycling and walking infrastructure have been growing louder and louder, and the announcement of almost £4million is a small step forward when we really need a giant leap. The government's transport priorities will continue to result in congestion, climate emissions and air pollution.
"I will continue to keep up the pressure on ministers to prioritise preventative spending. By making cycling and walking an easier option we can ease the strain on our health budget."