Polling Day

Polling Day has arrived ! Out early this morning with the A boards and did a stint at Ratho, Balerno and Gibson Craig Halls polling stations. Not a huge turn out yet but certainly a steady trickle of people throughout. Good banter with the other parties and was pleased to bump into Mike "Professor Pongoo" Ferrigan. Disappointed that he wasn't in costume but he may be persuaded later in the day. Right, time to get back out there. 

See you at the Count !

Let's Get Out And Do It People !

SAMH Redhall Walled Garden

Managed a brief door knocking session last night and a visit to a constituent before heading for the Ratho Primary Parent Council meeting. 

This morning was a fantastic (and slightly humbling) visit to Redhall Walled Garden, run by SAMH , which helps people who are dealing with mental health problems rebuild their confidence and self esteem through working in the garden and associated IT suite. It's a wonderful facility and they undertake a vast range of tasks which help people to look forward to the future and take responsibility for their own lives after periods of illness. After an extensive tour of the garden we adjourned to the meeting room for a cuppa and a scone and a chat with several volunteers and staff members. On a very simple level SAMH support people to hopefully build a better future for themselves but lying behind each individual is often a complex history of illness and issues, sometimes homelessness, alcohol or drug porblems, dismissal from employment and woven through each tale is a constant battle to try and find the most appropriate support and advice which is often necessary before even considering taking on the tangled web that we call the Benefits System.

It was very very clear that much more needs to be done. Services have been cut just at the time when more people are likely to need them and ultimately this will be false economy as increased numbers experience more severe problems with a greater impact on the lives of themselves and their families as well as wider society. The Welfare Reform Act won't be much help either. In fact, it may make the situation much worse. 

I don't like to strike a negative note as there were so many positive personal stories but obviously there are still some major challenges ahead. If I'm still a Councillor this time next week I've offered to meet again to see if we can progress some of the more local issues.

I believe that all Councillors and candidates were invited to today's event but only myself, from the Labour Group and the Greens were represented. I'm sure the other parties do care about these services but must have been too busy today to get one person each to attend.

PS - Redhall Walled Garden's next Open Day (with plant sales and cream teas) is on Sunday 20th May (12-5pm), See you there !

Promises, Promises.

Last Council meeting on Thursday would have been relatively uneventful if it wasn't for the (hopefully) final decision on Portobello High School. Three deputations, all of whom spoke passionately and honestly, and a debate which saw the unfortunate Greens on the wrong end of Marilyne MacLaren mauling. Marilyne doesn't take any prisoners at the best of times and she wasn't going to let the warm fuzzy feeling of the final Council meeting in a five term get in the way of a good old fashioned, full frontal, political assault.

Last night was Edinburgh Labour's fundraising Race Night and a good night was had by all. I was MC for the event and it probably prevented me from losing more than I did. Grateful for small mercies I suppose.

Juniper Green Farmers Market today, followed by campaigning in Balerno.

Interesting blog piece by Peter Maxwell about the 5 main manifestos in the Edinburgh Council elections. I don't know Peter but you have to admire someone who's prepared to read 5 political manifestos and then share his conclusions with the rest of us. Probably won't come as surprise to learn I wholeheartedly agree with his analysis.

'Tis the Season of Hustings

Things are a bit of a blur just now. Incredibly busy over the past few days.

Last Thursday was the Active Citizenship Group's Hustings at the City Chambers, which I was happy to attend on behalf of the Labour Group. Lively debate and a good turn out.

Friday was Regulatory Committee where the most important piece of business on the Agenda, my motion on Commercial Dog Walking, was duly agreed. Then nipped out to Currie where PETRA (Pentlands Edge Tenants & Residents Association) had spent the day planting in and around the grass area at Bryce Road next to the shops and Weavers Knowe Pub. They did a grand job and there should be a nice splash of colour and heather there in the future.

Saturday - Campaigning in Currie with Alistair Darling MP and then in the evening made my debut as an after dinner speaker having been invited to address the 65th anniversary dinner of Moray House Rugby Club at the Royal Britsh. Great night, even though as a petrified first timer I had to wait as the last speaker of six and didn't get to my feet until around 11pm. Loved it though and my lame gags seemed to be well received. 

Sunday - More campaigning, this time in Balerno where the sun truly shone on the righteous, and I managed to catch some rays too ! Then in the evening the grand Edinburgh Labour Gala Dinner with Andrew Burns, Alistair Darling, Johann Lamont, Anas Sarwar and Special Guest Alastair Campbell (with his brother Donald the Piper). Excellent evening, raised a few bob for the campaign and I auctioned a couple of Hibs and Hearts tops. In return for a modest donation I'm prepared to reveal which was most valuable. AC then busked on the pipes in return for a bucket collection which boosted the night's takings even further. Good night.

Monday - Last night was our local hustings for the Pentland Hills ward at Balerno Parish Church, excellently chaired by Prof Cliff Beevers and very well attended by around 170 local souls. Good natured debate and all the candidates were on good form.

Councillor takes lead on dog walking

Pretty pleased that today's Evening News took an interest in my motion to Friday's Regulatory Committee asking for a report on what measures could be considered in relation to introducing a licensing regime for Commercial Dog Walking companies. These businesses appear to be expanding, which is fine, but I've received a few concerns from local residents about multiple dogs not completely under control and a few nasty incidents as result. The suggestion seems to have been well received and I'm hopeful that colleagues on Regulatory will agree to the request for a report.

Excellent door knocking session tonight in Currie. Only two weeks to go !!!

City Budget Committee & other stuff

Well, what a weekend that was ! As expected, lost my shirt at the Poker Night but bounced back on Sunday to enjoy the second best ever day at Hampden. So far. I suspect this debate is already dead in the water but I would much prefer to see the Scottish Cup Final on 19th May played at Murrayfield. It would be brilliant for the city, both clubs and Hearts and Hibs fans. Probably too many vested interests at play though for common sense to prevail on this occasion.

Anyway, back to business, with a massively busy week ahead. Surgeries and Ratho Community Council last night and a full day today starting at the opening of the new community cafe in the refurbished St Joseph's Centre at Balerno Church. Followed by a walkabout in Wester Hailes and I've got a few issues I want to raise. A Regulatory Committee briefing at 2pm and a WEGARAH meeting this evening.

Pleased to have had a couple of articles posted on the Edinburgh Labour website today and yesterday. A City Budget Committee to open up the Council's budget setting process and a gentle reminder that Council debt levels have increased to worrying levels in the last 5 years and could be unsustainable in the current climate.

Cartoon Head still on the Campaign Trail

Really enjoyed the launch of Frank Boyle's football cartoon exhibition last night at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the High Street. Some excellent football and political banter washed down with a wee glass of red. Frank even let slip what team he really supports, but the secret's safe with me. His work is fairly legendary now with the only low point of his career being a cartoon featuring me (the only one to the best of my knowledge). You can access his work and buy his books at his website . It's all good stuff.

Balerno Farmers Market today, followed by a spot of leafleting and door knocking at the top end of Balerno. Went well. Tonight, against my better judgement I will be participating in a Labour fundraising Poker Night. I can't even make a half decent job of a fixed odds so I'll probably be completely out of my depth with serious gambling.

Early night, though, tomorrow I'm Hampden bound for the Scottish Cup Semi Final. I may be in a minority but I think an all Edinburgh Cup Final would be fantastic for both clubs and the city. I'm not confident its going to happen mind, but you never know.... 'Mon the Hearts !

Military Manoeuvres

Currie Community Council on Monday night. Not a bad turn out considering it was a public holiday. A number of local issues raised and discussed and in particular still no definitive feedback on the outcome of the bidding process for the old Curriehill School site or the Engine Shed site. Bureaucracy and legal niceties responsible for the delay I suspect. Also reported that the MOD have abandoned their plans to create a new Army base at Kirknewton. This has since been dismissed by the MOD as rumour and speculation. They're still sticking to their plans as announced last July by former Defence Secretary Liam Fox apparently. We shall see. Does the left hand know what the right hand is doing one wonders ?

Last night was an Election Briefing at the City Chambers hosted by the Election Returning Officer and her team, basically to explain the processes and procedures to be followed on Election Day itself (3rd May obviously) and at the Count the following morning at Meadowbank. I may be becoming more of a political anorak than I would have wished but actually found the session very interesting. If you want me to explain the intricacies of the Single Transferable Vote system, just ask ! I'd be happy to oblige ! Seeing the ballot box in the flesh, so to speak, brought me out in a cold sweat !

"a bit of an embarrassment"

Yesterday was particularly productive with a fantastic turn out of Good Friday campaign workers. We delivered well over 2000 leaflets and had a couple of teams door knocking. Very satisfying and a good reaction on the doorsteps. As promised, I bought the leafleting foot soldiers a beer in the Grey Horse, then the Malleny Arms, then the Riccarton Arms, then the Woodhall. Oh dear !.... Hic.... Back out again today, leaflet delivery in the Muirwood area of Currie and I went door knocking in the Cherry Trees part of Balerno. Some good banter with local residents and the rain just about stayed off.

Interesting piece in yesterday's Scotsman by Joyce McMillan. Ostensibly about elected Mayors she squarely sets out her stall by concluding that Edinburgh's SNP/LibDem Council Administration has become "a bit of an embarrassment". Can't argue with you there Joyce.

Good Friday, Grey Horse

Always confuses me this, a holiday for some but not others. Anyway, making the most of it by planning an Easter Weekend of Campaign Activity, starting this afternoon in Currie. Have promised to take the team to the Grey Horse later for some well earned refreshment.

Balerno Community Council was as busy as ever last night. They're leading on the arrangements for a local hustings on Monday 23rd in Balerno Parish Church, more details here . The poor state of local roads was also discussed at length and it was agreed that the local Roads Manager should be invited to a future meeting to discuss policy and practice when it comes to fixing the roads. Should be an interesting discussion.

Wester Hailes Community Council on Wednesday was as lively as anticipated with the underpass and associated housing development next to the Health Living Centre thoroughly debated. There will be a joint Neighbourhood Partnership public meeting (after the election unfortunately) to discuss all the associated issues and I get a sense that local residents may be finding their voice again. They'll need to if we are to get the best outcome for this site and the wider community. 

Wester Hailes CC

Last night's gig went exceptionally well I thought. Could hardly call myself an expert but a good venue with a good atmosphere and good bands added up to a successful evening all round. Tonight it's the Wester Hailes Community Council monthly meeting. Hoping for a decent turn out, the small band of activists that have kept the light burning certainly deserve some support. I suspect the issue of access to the new Healthy Living Centre from the shopping centre side of the railway line may be raised again. A solution of sorts has been agreed between the NHS/Council consortium and the leaseholders of the shopping centre but its far from ideal and could be so much better. You would think that an area that needs to regain the regeneration momentum it once had deserved a bit more effort wouldn't you ?

Roads and Roadies

Very productive weekend spent door knocking in sun drenched Juniper Green. And took possession of 10,000 Election Address leaflets. Just got to deliver them now. All volunteers most welcome !

Earlier this evening I met a few of the residents of Bonnington Village, beyond Ratho (more a hamlet really) to discuss their ongoing  concerns about site traffic accessing the nearby art attraction thundering past their cottages on a daily basis. Understandably, they're pretty upset and we need to set about finding solutions.

After that had to head into town to help my youngest, whose college course in Music Business Management involves putting on gigs and tonight's rock n roll mecca is at the Voodoo Rooms (£3 at the door). Three bands, all of whom are destined to be stars of the future will take to the stage, although none of them, apparently, has a drum kit. Hence Dad becomes Roadie for the night and duly delivers drum kit to the venue. Unfortunately I've got to collect it again at the end, which will be well past my bed time ! Not a happy bunny....

Granville, f-f-f-fetch your cloth !

Attended a cross party, round table discussion this afternoon hosted by the Scottish Grocers Federation. It covered a wide range of topics such as alcohol licensing and fees, minimum pricing, business rates, the economy, planning rules and retail crime. A lot of the smaller "convenience" stores face huge challenges ; competition from the big supermarket chains, bureaucracy (sometimes necessary), increased utility costs, increased rates, low income shoppers having less to spend. It all adds up to a very difficult environment. Yet, I know from my own experience that the "corner shops" are much loved and needed by local communities. Perhaps we need to love them a little bit more, or we might lose them.

Ratho Fire

This fire at Craigpark Quarry in Ratho, in a pile of tyres, started last Sunday morning and has caused considerable concern and inconvenience to the residents of the village. Being immediately to the west of the village, with a westerly breeze and dry conditions for the last few days hasn't helped either, with sooty deposits left on everything; cars, gardens, clothes, pets and children. Just managed to get my hands on the basic facts yesterday and slightly disappointed at the lack of proactive communications from the formal agencies. It would seem that there is no threat to health, which is reassuring but I suspect local people will demand a few answers about site storage and security at the quarry so that we can be confident of no repetition. Answers will be sought.

Bad Week for Grannies and Gideons

It takes a certain unusual mix of skills for a politician to be able to unite all the varied wings of the British media in condemnation. George Osborne managed it this week. There's so much time and energy obviously expended in preparing the spin and hype surrounding the Budget these days that you really don't expect the Chancellor of the Exchequer to f**k it up on the day. Didn't manage to catch much of the news coverage on budget day itself but the newspaper headlines the following morning said it all. Mugging Grannies to pay for lower taxes for millionaires probably wasn't what Gideon was trying to achieve but it does give the rest of us an intriguing insight into the priorities of the ConDem Cabinet.

Rest of the week was pretty busy and is summarised as follows - 

Sunday - Balerno Church followed by opening of refurbished St Joseph's Centre, joyous occasion. Tynecastle, another derby victory, also a joyous occasion.

Monday - City Chambers, Surgeries, Ratho Community Council, fractious.

Tuesday - Finance and Resources Committee. Not exactly riveting.

Wednesday - Hearts progress to semi finals of the Scottish Cup. Pleasing.

Thursday - Door knocking in Balerno followed by Neighbourhood Partnership Funding Panel meeting. Business like.

Friday - City Chambers followed by Drumbrae Gala fundraising quiz. Clueless.

Saturday - Juniper Green Farmers Market followed by door knocking in Currie. Productive.

Leaflets, St Joseph and Righteous Indignation

Balerno Parish Church

Excellent leafleting session in Ratho this morning. Thanks to the local Labour team and good to see former local Labour Cllr John Longstaff in fine form. A bite of lunch in the Bridge Inn brought proceedings to a satisfactory conclusion.  

Was delighted to accept an invitation to the opening of the refurbished St Joseph's Centre tomorrow, part of Balerno Parish Church's community facilities. The opening ceremony will be preceded by a service in the church, to be addressed by the Rt Rev David Arnott, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland (longest job title in the world !). Okay, not my usual Sunday morning routine, but looking forward to it. This will be followed by a hasty dash to Tynecastle for the third (and possibly last?) derby of the season. Ridiculous kick off time of 1200 but that's what happens when you sell your soul to TV.

An amusing postscript to the Pentland Hills parking charges debacle covered below. At Leader's question time during full Council on Thursday, SNP Group Leader Steve Cardownie launched into a tirade condemning the incompetence of the PHRP and demanding an investigation. His righteous indignation was brought to a shuddering halt when reminded that the chair of the PHRP is none other than his SNP colleague Cllr Colin Keir, now an MSP.

Council Debt - Easy Answers

The practice of submitting questions to Council meetings to be answered by Convenors has been around for a while. We introduced it in 2003, I think. Normally opposition members seek to elicit information that they hope will be useful in debate or is pertinent to a local issue. When an Administration Councillor asks a question it can be assumed that it has been "planted" to give the Convenor the opportunity to showboat or prove a point. Therefore I was intrigued to see a question submitted to today's Council meeting from Cllr Tim McKay, LibDem colleague of Phil Wheeler, Convenor of Finance, about Council debt. the question and answer are as follows -
 

QUESTION

What assurance can the Convener give that the Council’s current level of

indebtedness is reasonable and manageable?

ANSWER

Council sets its capital expenditure plans in accordance with the prudential 

code, a framework introduced by CIPFA in 2004-05. The objectives of the 

prudential code are to provide a framework for local authority capital finance 

that will ensure for individual local authorities that:

1. capital expenditure plans are affordable;
2. all external borrowing and other long-term liabilities are within prudent and 
   sustainable levels; and
3. treasury management decisions are taken in accordance with professional
   good practice.

Oh well, that's okay then. £1.5bn of debt, which costs £110m / year (every year) to service, and growing by the day. That's £3000 of debt for every man, woman and child in Edinburgh, the highest in Scotland, dealt with by 3 bullet points. No figures (perhaps for obvious reasons) no analysis or projections, just "Trust us, we know what we're doing".

Why am I not reassured ?

VAT Blunder kills car park charges

Oh dear ! A "clerical oversight" (not to mention PR disaster) omitting VAT from the calculations looks to have killed off the initiative to charge for parking in the car parks around the Pentland Hills Regional Park (PHRP). Red faces all round methinks and comprehensively covered here by the Evening News.

Okay, there were some mixed views locally on the charges, which were, after all, to cover for cuts elsewhere in the PHRP budget, but I think this will be welcomed by most who were worried about parking displacement into access roads and of course the added expense to a walk in the hills. Is it any wonder the Council gets a bad reputation ?

Manifesto Launch

After many months of consultation and development and many hundreds of comments from the public and various organisations we finally launched the Edinburgh Labour Manifesto for the local elections on 3rd May this morning. The launch event went very well, ably chaired by Lesley Hinds and a couple of fine contributions from Labour Group Leader Andrew Burns and Scottish Labour Leader Johann Lamont. Well attended too by the media and associated photographers (the photo outside with us all holding manifestos in the air felt a bit naff, but hey, these guys know what they're doing. Don't they ?) Well ahead of the other parties, once again we're leading from the front and hopefully the manifesto, which can be read on this link, will create much debate and examination of the ideas that we've brought forward, in the final few weeks of the campaign.