True Grit
Icy Roads Campaign
Like so many people, Renfrewshire Law Centre is concerned about the state of our roads and pavements as a result of recent snow and ice, and is calling on central and local government to take further action.
We would urge Ministers, M(S)P's, Councillors and Officials to consider the following points:-
- Cold weather affects the UK in general and Scotland in particular, therefore we should be prepared to deal with it.
- Our weather system is unpredictable, perhaps more so than in other countries.
- Our weather system may be subject to change in years to come in consequence of global environmental factors.
- Other countries appear better prepared to deal with their own cold weather.
- Inadequate preparation for cold weather has a dramatic impact on the national economy, forcing individuals to stay off work or to keep their children off school, and forcing businesses, services and schools to close.
- The resultant financial loss outweighs the cost of preparing properly for cold weather. The 'lack of resources' cry from councils is a false economy. For example, on 6 January 2010 450 Scottish schools were forced to close, yet their education departments will still have to pay all those teachers and other staff, while pupils' parents may have to stay off work as well in order to look after their children, producing a knock-on financial effect.
- Hazardous road conditions cause accidents, serious injury and even death to vehicle drivers and their passengers and to pedestrians alike. The emergency services and hospitals are put under extreme pressure as a result.
- Inaccessible roads effectively besiege some people in their own homes, making it impossible for them to reach not only work and schools but also shops for essential supplies as well as medical facilities for treatment and medicines. The young, elderly, sick and disabled are particularly vulnerable.
- The law needs reform.
- Central government and local councils need to work together, rather than trying to pass the buck or foot the blame one against the other.
- The existing legislation needs to be overhauled and strengthened by putting in place a whole package of measures and funding.
- The sanctions for failure to comply with the law need to be firmer.
We have contacted local M(S)P's serving Renfrewshire and neighbouring North Ayrshire as well as local councillors. Katy Clark MP (North Ayrshire) and Douglas Alexander MP (Paisley) have both expressed support for action.
Renfrewshire Residents
Local Renfrewshire Residents affected by this issue may consult the Law Centre for further advice. For office hours, appointments and drop-in surgeries, please follow this link.