PLEDGE We’ll boost our schools and services too
Election vow from Scottish Liberal Democrats
The Scottish Liberal Democrats have pledged to focus on education and funding for services if they are voted on to Renfrewshire Council.
Thursday, May 4 is the date for the local authority elections and almost 100 candidates have put their names forward in Renfrewshire.
Results will be declared the following day and 43 councillors will be selected in 12 multi-member wards.
There are 10 Lib-Dem candidates, led by longstanding Councillor Eileen McCartin - who has been member for the South West of Paisley for 29 years.
She said: “The local party has been refreshed with some new and very talented people in the last few years.
“I am delighted that many of them are willing to put themselves forward to take up the role of being a councillor.
We will fight hard to ensure the people of Renfrewshire are no longer ignored Eileen McCartin
“I have said to all of them that being a councillor is the BEST job in politics, because as a councillor we get to help and support local people on their doorsteps, in their local communities.
“We have a range of talent and specialism which we can bring to the council, and we will fight hard to ensure that the people of Renfrewshire are no longer ignored by the council, as they have largely been over the last five years by this Labour administration.
“Many people are now going to be paying huge increases in their Council Tax, but for no more services, thanks to the SNP in Holyrood.
“The Liberal Democrats have fought to increase investment in education – not the small amount, however welcome, being introduced by the SNP, but real funding which could be provided by raising income tax by 1p, in order to support schools, pre- five services and to repair some of the damage done by the SNP in their huge cuts to local colleges, d a ma g i n g the education of some of the poorest members of our communities.”
Meanwhile, the SNP has launched its manifesto for Renfrewshire at Renfrew Town Hall.
Former SNP Renfrewshire Council leader Derek Mackay MSP and SNP group leader, Councillor Kenny MacLaren, say their to top priorities include i improving the environment and roads. Renfrewshire N North and West MSP Mr Mackay, who is Finance Secretary, said: “The people of R Renfrewshire have an o opportunity to elect a new council with fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose.” First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is ELECTION COUNTDOWN backing her party’s 24 local candidates - 12 men and 12 women.
She said: “This May, people will go the polls to elect a new council for Renfrewshire.
“All of our local candidates are ready to work hard to deliver key SNP priorities such as expanding childcare, closing the attainment gap, protecting local services and empowering communities.
“We’re proud to have more women standing for the SNP in Renfrewshire than ever before, with a 50/50 gender balanced team of candidates.
“On May 4 put your trust in the SNP to work hard for Renfrewshire.”