21-02-07
Instead of trimming and cutting the services that the Post Office delivers, we should be looking at how we can utilise the network to help deliver more.
That view was given yesterday by Liberal Democrat MSP Andrew Arbuckle following a rally in Edinburgh supporting the Post Office network.
“One of the buzz phrases being used nowadays is “shared services” which is the fancy way of getting public bodies to work together and not in isolation.
“The Post Office network is unique in covering the whole country and in having a very strong customer base.
“Local councils should make better use of the network in the delivery of their many services.
“There is still a Post Office in almost every town and this could be utilised to provide information on council services or indeed as a primary contact point for some specific services.
“This would provide the clichéd “win win “ situation with the threatened Post Office network benefiting from additional financial income and the local councils being able to get right into the communities.”
Mr Arbuckle said that innovative thinking had to be taken on board to ensure the UK Government did not allow any further dismantling of the network.
Speaking to the rally, he stated that the UK Government had whittled away at the business operations that used to be operated exclusively by the Post Office to the point where some 2,500 Post Office premises were now being threatened by the latest proposals to remove the Post Office Card Account.
The scale of the cuts are such that they would impact not only on remote rural areas, but also on many in the outskirts of larger towns.
“If we do nothing we will lose major links in what is still a national network."
He added that the current UK consultation on the future of the Post Office service still had ten days to go and he urged as many people as possible to respond.
“Otherwise we may look back and regret it,” he warned.
14-02-07
Following the announcement by the Scottish Executive that a new crossing will be built across the Firth of Forth, regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle has spoken of his delight that this decision has been made.
Andrew commented; “This is great news for Fife, for the East of Scotland and indeed the whole Scottish economy. I am very pleased that Tavish Scott, the Transport minister, has carried the argument through the Cabinet. That is what really counts not the Opposition parties posturing outside Holyrood with placards.”
13-02-07
It used to be that the weather was the number one concern within the farming community. Now, however, that top ranking goes to the amount of bureaucracy facing those in active farming.
Recognising the paper mountain now facing the industry, the Scottish Liberal Democrats are proposing to introduce an independent body that will oversee all statutory requirements to ensure they are implemented in a proportionate, practical and reasonable manner.
Deputy Rural Affairs spokesman Andrew Arbuckle MSP said that during his time as an MSP, it was obvious some organisations were tempted to gold plate regulations to the detriment of the industry. It was also clear to him that scientific theory behind new regulations sometimes did not link up with the practicalities of food production.
"Monitoring bodies have to remain independent and free from direct political interference. The logical approach to ensure that regulations are applied in a way proportionate to the risk involved is to have an independent body looking into the implementation of regulations.
"Other industries and indeed, private individuals are protected by organisations such as Water Watch, and the Liberal Democrats propose to set up a similar body to bring control to the amount of bureaucracy facing working farmers.
"The farming industry with its wide range of regulations could provide the template for other industries wishing to set up similar independent bodies to look at the implementation of controls in their businesses.
"It may seem strange to propose setting up another body to ensure proper implementation of regulation, but this body would be composed of practical people who would be required to go out into the fields and into the farm offices to hear at first hand of problems facing the industry.
"Where duplication and over zealous implementation of controls have been experienced they would be able to take recommendations for change to Ministers to and to Parliament.
"On almost a daily basis I hear of farmers having to spend time with inspectors of the various schemes and regulations with which the farming community now have to comply.
"This new body would be able to see where such visits could be integrated to reduce the amount of time farmers currently face coping with the requirements of twenty-first century regulation.
"Scotland would not be the first country in Europe taking such a step; there are examples of EU member states having similar bodies whose aim is to ensure that paperwork does not swamp their farmers.
"Most of the legislation affecting agriculture originates in the European Union, but other member states appear to cope with it better than we do.
"This proposal does not mean that farmers can duck out of their responsibilities, but it will ensure that they are not squeezed out of business by duplication of paperwork, or gold plated regulation.
"The independent body should also have powers to monitor the charges being made for inspection schemes in order to ensure that clients are not over charged and that the regime is providing value for money.
“Importantly, the body should also be permitted to comment and act upon the penalty charges that are imposed for failure to adhere to schemes. This is to ensure that these are proportionate to the degree of non-compliance. Genuine mistakes often result in hefty fines or exclusions under present regulations and these are frequently disproportionate to the misdemeanour."
7-02-07
Mid Scotland and Fife Liberal Democrat MSP Andrew Arbuckle has re-affirmed his total opposition to the proposed ship to ship oil transfer in the Firth of Forth.
“Scapa Flow stands out as the clear front runner for any ship to ship oil transfer business in Scotland. It has a twenty year clean track record of carrying out this type of work. It has a complete safety system at hand if there is a spillage and to cap that the local people benefit thro royalties paid to the local council on the tonnage transferred.
“Compare that with the Forth Ports proposal where there is no track record; where the cost of any clean up will fall to the local authorities and where the profit from the organisation goes to the company putting forward the proposal.
“While Fife Council and other local authorities have no statutory obligations to clean up if there were ever to be a spillage, the pressure on them to clean up any environmental damage would be enormous.
“This burden should not be placed on local authorities who will have no control over the level or extent of the operation.
“It will also be very difficult to gauge just how much preparation should be made and how to estimate the level of equipment that might be needed if there was ever to be an accident.
“Evidence presented to the committee made it clear that one major drawback to the transfer of oil within Scapa Flow compared to the Forth Estuary appeared to be the dumping of the ballast. In the Orkney site, de-ballasting has to be done outside the harbour. In the Forth, thousands of tonnes of ballast from somewhere in the world will be discharged by the mother ship into the estuary despite all its environmental designations.”
7-02-07
Fife must no longer be disadvantaged by the imposition of tolls on both its main access points. That is the view of Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Andrew Arbcukle.
He commented; "I have campaigned for a long time that the Forth and Tay road bridges form part of our national network and as such should be free for use by motorists.
"The original intent of having tolls was to pay for the building of the bridge. That target has long passed. The Tay Bridge cost an estimated £4.5 million and in the past forty years in excess of £50 million has been collected in tolls.
"Nowadays motorists are paying for maintenance and paradoxically for toll collection. That is unequal with motorists in other areas driving without any direct charges for repairing roads."
Andrew Arbuckle will be supporting the motion for the removal of tolls in the Scottish Parliament but added; "I wish that the motion also included an assurance that existing maintenance work on the bridges would continue to be carried out. I also wish that the rights of the bridge employees had been included in the motion."
6-02-07
Some 5 years after one of the most complex pieces of legislation was passed by the Scottish Parliament, the Liberal Democrats have indicated that, after the election, they would set up a review into how well the Agricultural Holdings act is working.
“We must ensure that it is achieving its aims in providing opportunities for those wishing to become tenant farmers. We must also determine how it is working for those landlords who let their land,” said Andrew Arbuckle, MSP, deputy rural affairs spokesperson.
“With many landlords now becoming accustomed to the new tenancy laws, it is encouraging to see that moves are being made away from partnerships into limited duration tenancies.
“However, there are reports that the gap between the short tenancy with a maximum of five years and the longer term tenancy of 15 years is causing a problem. It is not currently possible to move easily beyond the five year term.
“One of the primary aims of the legislation was to increase the tenanted sector in Scottish agriculture. “Some 30% of all Scottish farmers operate on tenanted farms. I myself am a former tenant farmer and there is much to commend this system as it does not tie up large amounts of cash in owning property and it allows the tenant to concentrate on the actual farming.
“The Liberal Democrats want to create the best possible conditions for enhancing the tenanted sector. This is a better way of getting more new entrants into the industry than offering one off cash incentives that create an un-level field.
“The clear focus of the review would be to examine how to increase the availability of tenanted land to give young entrants an opportunity to get a foot hold on the first rung of the farming ladder."
13-12-06
This afternoon, the Scottish Executive Finance Minister, Tom McCabe, made an announcement regarding the local government finance deal.
Regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle responded:
"The above inflation level settlement is welcome. I am particularly pleased that Perth & Kinross, Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Fife Councils have all been awarded more than 5% increase on the previous settlement.
“I know that local authorities have been under pressure in setting their budgets for the forthcoming year. It is not generally realised that Councils are now facing major new demands in their social work and education departments and this additional cash is needed."
11-12-06
Liberal Democrat Finance spokesperson Andrew Arbuckle MSP has
slammed the SNP’s economic policy in the light of GERS figures
(Government Expenditure and Revenue in Scotland) released today.
Mr Arbuckle said:
“The black hole in the SNP's economic policy has been revealed
once again. These latest figures show that even if the
nationalists took all North Sea oil revenues for Scotland we
would all still face a tax increase of at least 21p in every
pound to pay for Salmond's separate state. That is a lot more
than a penny for Scotland. The SNP would be well advised to
spend more time checking their own policies add up before
attacking objective Government statistics.”
4-12-06
In a speech to members of the Federation of Small Business group late last week, regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle stated his firm support for a new crossing over the Firth of Forth and his hopes that business rates in Scotland would soon fall below those in England.
During his speech to the assembled audience, Andrew spoke of his time as a businessman and farmer and therefore his appreciation of the concerns that many small businesses have.
In particular, Andrew congratulated the Federation for their campaign regarding the Forth crossing and offered his support for a second crossing. He also called for improvements to the Rosyth–Kincardine and Kinross-Kincardine road to sustain the ever increasing volume of traffic, particularly HGVs using these roads.
Turning his attention to business rates, Andrew informed the group that it was hoped that Scottish Business Rates would soon fall below those south of the border thanks to monies earmarked by the Scottish Executive to balance the current disparity.
After the meeting Andrew commented; “I believe it is very important for politicians to meet with local business people to make sure the business policies we are encouraging are not at odds to the wishes of the business community. I was pleased to see that in the case of the Forth Bridge, we were agreed that a second crossing is needed.”
9-11-06
Following a number of incidents where local residents in various areas of Fife have stated they feel intimidated by rowdy gangs of young people, it has emerged that one in seven owners of licensed premises have been found to be willing to sell alcohol to youngsters.
Andrew Arbuckle Lib Dem MSP stated that he did not believe in young people being harried and hassled from meeting places but it was obvious that alcohol was involved in some of the disturbances.
"I have recently received information from the Solicitor General that out of 521 premises in Fife where test purchasing had been carried out by underage youngsters, some 74 shops and pubs were prepared to sell alcohol to them.
"Businesses really must be more responsible.
"I fully support the pilot project being carried out by Fife Police in the test purchasing of alcohol.
"Whilst I accept that the current culture of underage drinking is not solely down to negligent alcohol sellers, they must take some responsibility, as must society as a whole. We need to be looking for ways to tackle this growing problem".
8-11-06
Following the shock announcement of Farepak's collapse, Andrew Arbuckle MSP has joined with fellow MSPs to offer a day's pay to help the victims of the closure.2-11-06
In a speech in the Scottish Parliament yesterday, Andrew Arbuckle MSP called for better partnerships and negotiations between communities and developers to ensure that wind farms are accepted and built as a way to tackle climate change.
Under the current system, there is no requirement for wind turbine applicants to discuss their proposals with the local community to be affected. Andrew Arbuckle called for more extensive discussions stating that the "one day display in the local village hall" did not constitute proper consultation .
Andrew Arbuckle went further to put forward the idea that, as with a number of factors building houses, developers building wind farms should put something back into the local community. Andrew called on the example of the wind turbines erected in the Cathkin hills. Here the local community have supported the creation of a number of wind turbines in exchange for a yearly sum of money coming into their community which they put to good use.
Andrew went on to discuss the current situation with the Ochil Hills proposals. Here no trade-off benefits have been offered to the local community and as a consequence, many local residents see the proposal to build a wind farm as a desecration of their neighbourhood with no benefits for the local community.
Andrew commented during his speech; "The Ochil hill experience is a lesson to all of us that local communities can be swamped by major developments and it is up to elected representatives to not only reflect their community views but also to ensure that they are not disadvantaged with new developments".
After his speech Andrew said; "I think it is very important that communities get local benefits from having wind farms in their vicinity. Where such benefits have been offered there has been a lot less opposition to building wind turbines. As with any planning application, there must be a two-way process of negotiation and benefits for all".
2-11-06
Regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle has welcomed a statement from the Transport Minister Tavish Scott about the possibility of a new Forth crossing.
Following a question from a fellow MSP about what progress had been made in the decision-making process about a new crossing, Tavish Scott responded that the planning process is moving along and that the detailed reports that have been commissioned will be completed by next May. Ministers will then have as much information as possible to make a decision.
Andrew Arbuckle commented; "I welcome this statement by the Minister and the indication that the Executive is taking into serious consideration the need for a second crossing over the Forth. I believe that it is necessary for this planning to take place now. It will hopefully mean that time and money is not wasted further down the line".
1-11-06
Regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle has written to the Transport Minister to request that additional funding is given for the maintenance and safety precautions needed on the A977 between Kincardine and Kinross.
In his letter to Tavish Scott, Andrew Arbuckle commented that a number of minor traffic measures have already been put in place along this road to mitigate the damage done by HGVs travelling through the small villages along this route. However, due to financial restrictions, Perth and Kinross Council have had to limit these safety measures to only a few locations. The Council have recommended that an additional £750,000 would be needed to provide adequate safeguards with the increased traffic after the new Kincardine Bridge opened.
Andrew Arbuckle urged Tavish Scott to consider allocating further funding to this road to help the Council implement the safety measures it considered necessary. He pointed out that with the current lifespan of the Forth Road Bridge under scrutiny and peak time congestion, the number of HGVs using the A977 was increasing.
Andrew Arbuckle said; "The A977 operates as a strategic route for HGVs and given that the road travels through a number of small villages, I feel it is essential that money is spent on the road to ensure maximum safety. I hope that Tavish Scott will consider my request".
27-10-06
Following the decision for ship-to-ship oil transfers to take place in the Firth of Forth, Andrew Arbuckle MSP has written to the Chief Executive of Melbourne Marine Services to ask whether alternative sites were properly considered before this decision was taken.
There has been cross-party opposition to the decision to allow such transfers in the open waters of the Firth of Forth. Many people feel that the local environment would be seriously under threat from an oil spill on this much valued coastline.
Mr Arbuckle has written to the Chief Executive to specifically address the issue of alternative sites for the transfers. Less than two weeks ago Jim Wallace MSP, indicated that Scapa Flow in Orkney had experience of the transfer of oil from ship-to-ship. In addition, he said that the site had a full range of support services on hand to deal with any problems.
Given the current level of opposition to the transfers taking place in the Firth of Forth Mr Arbuckle wrote in his letter; “Moving the operation to Scapa Flow would not only please the residents of the Forth coast but would add a much needed boost to the Orkney economy. Mr Wallace has gone on record to say that this is just the type of business that should be operating in his constituency”.
Andrew Arbuckle commented after; “It is clear that very few people want the oil transfers to take place in the Firth of Forth. Here is a solution. The Scapa Flow is experienced in dealing with such transfers and has the back-up equipment these to deal with any problems. To me, this seems to be the best option”.
27-10-06
In a debate in Parliament on Thursday afternoon, regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle flew the flag for the Forth Estuary to become Scotland’s first Coastal and Marine National Park.
The debate signalled the arrival of the consultation on establishing Coastal and Marine National Park in Scotland – which the Liberal Democrats made a commitment to in 2003.
Mr Arbuckle spoke about his hopes for the area that was chosen; “that the area so designated will see this as an opportunity to increase economic activity rather than stifle local businesses”. Mr Arbuckle felt that there should be no reasons why an area awarded this status should experience damage to its commercial sector. He pointed to the existing situation with the Loch Lomond and Cairngorm National Parks where the environment is protected and commercial interests are sustained.
During his speech, Mr Arbuckle also raised the important point of local residents and communities playing a full role in any control and management needed. In addition, he argued that any management should reflect local priorities.
Finally, Mr Arbuckle commented; “I do think that there is a strong argument for putting forward the Forth estuary for the designation…It is recognised internationally for its outstanding marine and coastal biodiversity…It combines its range of flora and fauna with important, indeed strategic, commercial activity”.
27-10-06
Regional MSP Andrew Arbuckle has announced his delight that a Dunfermline bus service will see a cash injection from the Scottish Executive as part of new funding announced by Transport Minister Tavish Scott yesterday.
New funding will arrive in the area for Townhill to Dunfermline expansion of service D7. This money will be used to meet the following criteria:
Andrew Arbuckle commented; “I am delighted that some of this third round of funding is coming to Dunfermline and West Fife. If we are serious about tackling impending environmental chaos is vital that we improve our public transport facilities so that people do not need to rely on their cars. Regular and frequent services are certainly part of this. As is making sure that everyone can access the bus easily”.
3-10-06
After criticising the present system of dealing with planning applications, as divisive, Andrew Arbuckle, Liberal Democrat MSP, Mid Scotland and Fife, described the proposals included in the new Planning Bill going through Parliament as “challenging for local Community groups”.
Speaking at a meeting of Community Councils in Dunfermline, Mr Arbuckle, who is also a councillor in Fife, said the present system did not encourage developers to discuss their proposals with local residents.
“It is no wonder that there are so many objections to planning applications. With one or two exceptions, no one speaks to anyone else.
“The requirement in the new Bill for developers to discuss proposals with local groups will not always bring harmony but at least, both sides will understand the reasons behind applications and objections.
In the new proposals, there will be an obligation on developers when they submit major applications for an accompanying document, listing how they have discussed the proposal with those who will be affected by it.
“This will be a challenge for Community Councils who up until now, have only had to react to submitted proposals. In the future they will have an input at an earlier stage.
“The new Bill should take a great deal of aggravation out of the system. It should help councillors sitting on planning committees to be better informed on all the issues and it should also reduce the pressure that currently falls on planning officials".
12-9-06
Andrew Arbuckle MSP is working with local councillor Alice Soper to tackle anti-social driving in Kirkcaldy. The noise from cars that have been modified to have loud exhausts is causing sleepless nights and disturbed days for many residents.
Andrew has been informed that throughout the day and much of the night, people are racing their high powered cars, most with loud exhausts, around the streets of Kirkcaldy. The noise from these vehicles is much louder than an un-modified car and many residents have complained that they can hear these cars from streets away, causing great anxiety.
Whilst the speeding of vehicles in Kirkcaldy can be dealt with under dangerous driving laws, Andrew has written to the Chief Constable of Fife Constabulary to see what the police can do under the anti-social behaviour legislation recently introduced, to help silence the constantly revving engines.
Andrew commented; “I hope that the police will be able to act under anti-social behaviour legislation to help stop this problem. It is not fair that the residents of Kirkcaldy must constantly listen to revving engines and racing vehicles. This is a clear example in my view of anti-social behaviour, and the police must take action”.
12-9-06
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Andrew Arbuckle, has submitted a question to the Scottish Executive asking what is being done to minimise the disruption for business travellers using Scottish airports during this time of heightened security.
Andrew Arbuckle has been contacted by many people who use the airports to travel for business who have been badly affected by recent developments, missing appointments and in some cases, being unable to travel. With very few flights leaving on time and a cut down on the amount of luggage that can be taken on board, business people are having to re-think how they travel.
Andrew commented; “Whilst for holiday makers disruption is a one-off, for people who often travel for business by air, their work has been severely affected by the increase in security. I would therefore like to know what the Scottish Executive can do to make it easier for business people to travel using our airports”.
6-9-06
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Andrew Arbuckle, has called on the Scottish Executive to introduce an ‘adopt a highway’ scheme in Scotland. The scheme encourages businesses, community groups or individuals to ‘adopt’ a stretch of road and maintain that road keeping the verges clear of litter and rubbish. In return, a sign is erected on the road telling drivers that this road is sponsored by the particular business and giving contact details for them.
"On a recent visit to the States, I saw this working very well with far less litter and debris on the roadsides than we encounter in this country. Despite the fact they have many more miles of highway than we do in this country, there seems to be widespread support for the scheme.
"Apart from allowing organisations and families to show civic pride in carrying out regular clean ups, it will save local authorities a great deal of money. The present system where squads of Council employees are despatched to clear the worst sections of roadway is not the most cost effective method of ensuring that the people of Scotland and the many visitors to this country are not confronted by litter strewn highways."
The scheme began in Texas, USA, and has since proved to be very popular in many countries. The scheme has many benefits. On the one hand, local councils would see a drop in the amount of money they have to budget for rubbish collection. On the other hand, businesses can pursue an avenue of advertisement that might not otherwise be available to them. Indeed, because the business is named on a sign as being responsible for the general appearance of the road, highways under the ‘Adopt a Highway’ scheme tend to be very well kept.
Andrew Arbuckle commented; “I hope that the Scottish Executive will consider introducing this scheme. I feel that many of the ideas which ‘Adopt a Highway’ encompasses could be put into practice and work successfully in Scotland. We certainly need to be actively pursuing ways to tidy up the county and I feel that this is one way which deserves consideration”.
6-9-06
Andrew Arbuckle, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, yesterday
welcomed the consultants report into the future of Sports
Centres and Swimming Pools in Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy,
and Glenrothes.
Andrew commented; "There is no doubt that major investment
will be required to upgrade and modernise the current facilities
but the consultants have rightly identified that there is support
both from the public and from the governing bodies of sport, for
this to happen.
"The cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Fife Institute, in
Glenrothes, and the swimming pools in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline
has been around too long. Now we have a route forward that
should provide top class sports facilities in Fife.
17-5-06
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has called
for an urgent review about the growing litter crisis in Scotland.
Mr Arbuckle has attended several coastal path clean ups and is
appalled by the amount and type of litter that accumulates on
our beaches and roadsides.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I have received reports that as much as £60 million of
taxpayers’ money is required to provide basic cleaning. Sadly
much of this litter is discarded by thoughtless individuals who
have no idea of the consequences of their actions.
“I would urge all parents to ensure that their children
properly dispose of crisp packets and empty cans. Also children
might remind their parents of their duty to keep Scotland
beautiful for them and for future generations.
Meanwhile Mr Arbuckle is investigating initiatives to combat
the practice of motorists’ throwing litter from their cars.
“This is not only very damaging to the beauty of the
countryside and its wildlife but also very dangerous and
difficult to clean up.”
16-5-06
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has
welcomed a new £14m safety drive by Transport Scotland to
improve the A90 between Dundee and Perth.
New ‘average speed cameras’ are to be installed when works
begin on the Kinfauns and Glendoick interchange later this month.
Responding to the news Andrew Arbuckle said:
“This development is good news for motorists and good news for
road safety on this stretch of dual carriageway.
“These innovative ‘average speed cameras’ stop drivers from
speeding up and braking as it is the average vehicle speed
along the road that is recorded. This will result in a much
smoother flow of traffic.
“I very much welcome the investment by Transport Scotland and
look forward to seeing a much improved safety situation on the
A90 between Dundee and Perth.
8-5-06
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has hit out
at the practice by some local government fund managers of
investing their pension funds in the tobacco industry.
Mr Arbuckle is calling for guidance from the Scottish Executive
on the issue and has submitted a Motion at Holyrood.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
"We have just passed a milestone bill banning people from
smoking in confined public spaces, bars and offices and yet we
allow these individual public groups to invest more than £140
million in the very industry that is producing a serious health
risk product. This smacks of gross hypocrisy and should be stopped.
"There are many councils who successfully invest in other areas
so the 170,000 affected employees should not suffer any
shortfalls. Currently the responsibility for investments rests
with the individual administering authority who on ethical
grounds should have considered their tobacco investments when
the “Healthy Scotland” policies were introduced as a white
paper back in 1999. To continue to invest after the 2005 bill
flies in the face of what the Scottish Parliament is trying to achieve."
3-4-06
A heated debate has been taking place in the Scottish
Parliament today, as Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland
and Fife, condemned nationalists for their “shallow” concern
over the Tay bridge tolls.
Speaking after the debate Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I welcome all those who are, for the first time, joining the
campaign to remove the tolls on the Tay road Bridge. I have
myself long campaigned for such a position. Although I want to
see an end to tolls on the Tay as soon as possible I do not
support the Motion put forward today by the SNP.
“My road to toll removal is planned and business like. In
comparison, the SNP motion is shallow. It is a knee jerk
reaction to the Tolled Bridges review. If toll removal is of
such importance to the SNP today why, only a few months ago,
did the SNP members on the Tay Bridge board allow the board
response to the consultation to proceed with a tacit acceptance
of tolls?
“I and my Lib Dem colleague from Fife were the only members of
the board to even raise the issue of the tolls in that
response. Why if the tolls are important today to the SNP have
they made no comment for the previous 39 years of toll collection?
“Their position is the equivalent of impulse buying. A purchase
which is not included in the planned expenditure of the
Scottish Executive. Further it is an impulse spend where the
price ticket is not even looked at.
“I want to see traffic flowing freely over the bridge, I want
those who use the bridge regularly to know that it is well
maintained and safe, I can forego the instant gratification
that might come with the SNP.”
23-3-06
The stunning success of the Scottish swimming team at the Commonwealth Games should be the spur to Fife to build a world class sports facility in the area.
That view was expressed by Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Andrew Arbuckle (LD) after following the fortunes of the athletes in Australia.
“I think it is extremely unfortunate that the debate on the future of Fife Institute has been brought down to a wrangle between Glenrothes and Kirkcaldy over future sports provision in Fife
“Using just a little vision we should be aiming to set up a facility where top class athletes can conduct their training but where local sportspeople can also follow their own events.
“The point is that with better training and amenities we could be hosting squads of World class competitors that would rival the best anywhere.
“Is it not time to seize this initiative and capitalise on this success?
“On a general level, it is also the perfect opportunity to challenge obesity and create a “Fife, Fit for the Future”.
“It is possible, that an investment in sporting excellence now will lead, not only the region, but Scotland, the UK and beyond, in its sporting prowess.
“We don’t need just another sports facility but rather a show case athletic centre of excellence that will be the envy of the sporting world.
“Let us demonstrate the courage of our conviction and follow the brilliant examples of today’s athletes by building, in Fife a monument to a healthier, medal winning population in a state of the art facility.
“I do not believe we should spend large amounts of money re-furbishing the Fife Institute. That is not a forward looking option.
“The debate on the Institute seems to have been taken over by the immediate neighbours of the Institute, where it has to be recognised that it is a facility for a far wider catchment area.
“More than 30 years ago, I regularly trained at the Institute despite having to travel from North Fife to do so.
“Even today, there are under 5 year olds coming from the four corners of Fife in order to learn to swim. The same is true of older age group with swimming classes oversubscribed.
“Anyone visiting the Institute over any week would see a variety of sports taking place and that range of sports has to be available in a future building.
“The work with disabled athletes at the Institute is recognised world wide and many para Olympians have trained there.
“Throughout Scotland there is a network of top class sports facilities. But the position in Fife is that we are still working with a building which is creaking with age.
“Let us reward our medal winning athletes with a new sports centre and let us also prepare the next generation of Scots for future Games.
21-3-06
The MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Andrew Arbuckle, has
welcomed the European Union's decision to lift its 10-year ban
on British beef. The market is worth £130m to the Scottish economy.
Responding to the news Andrew Arbuckle said:
“This long awaited announcement is a tremendous boost to
Scottish agriculture. Credit must go to Ross Finnie and his
team for achieving this result.
“Certain European politicians must carry the blame for the
export market not being opened up before now.”
20-3-06
Work to improve road safety on the A90 Perth to Dundee trunk road is set to be completed after a contract was awarded for the design and construction of the final two interchanges.
The £13.8m plan will fund interchanges and sliproads, links to local roads and various central reserve closures. In addition the contract will improve road safety and also develop environmental projects.
Responding to the news Andrew Arbuckle MSP said:
“This work should help remove some very dangerous junctions on
the A90 road and vastly improve road safety.
“I look forward to a better and safer driving experience for
motorists as well as to improvements to the local environment.
“This is certainly welcome news and I eagerly await the
completion of the project.”
13-3-06
Andrew Arbuckle MSP has welcomed moves by the Tay Road Bridge
Board to remove tolls on the Tay Bridge.
“I have campaigned for 20 years on this issue and I welcome the
unanimous view of the Bridge Board, especially from those
members who were previously consistent in their opposition to
the removal of the toll.
“It has long been my argument that the Tay Bridge forms part of
the national network and should be treated as such. The
maintenance costs of the bridge should therefore be paid by the
Scottish Executive.
“I find it crazy that a quarter of the money collected in tolls
is actually gobbled up by staff costs involved in toll collection.
“Equally, it is wrong that bridge users are still paying £1½m
annually on interest charges. In the past 39 years, bridge
users have paid almost £40m in tolls - that is many times the
original cost of the bridge.
“The removal of tolls on the Tay Bridge will not increase
congestion in Dundee, in fact, the removal of the toll booths
at the Dundee end will reduce congestion at that point. Heavy
goods traffic will continue to use the M90/A90 route north and
south. I do not believe there will be any diversion through
Dundee because of toll removal.
“This move by the Tay Bridge Board is only a start.”
9-3-06
The controversial issue of ship-to-ship oil transfers in the
Firth of Forth is being debated in the Scottish Parliament this
afternoon.
Speaking before the Members’ Business Debate the MSP for Mid
Scotland and Fife, Andrew Arbuckle, condemned the practice of
ship-to-ship oil transfers and highlighted the environmental
damage that could be caused.
Andrew said:
“My worries are largely on the environmental front. The Forth
is recognised as one of the top five ‘risk sensitive’ sites in
the country and its unique nature would magnify any accidental
damage. The initial report from Fife Council and its strong
rejection of the proposal readily highlighted the frankly
dangerous potential of the plans.
“Last Summer I walked along the Fife coastal path along the
north shores of the Forth. It was painful but not difficult to
imagine the rocks, the sandy bays, the much painted East Neuk
harbours covered in a gooey oily slime. Equally it was painful
but not difficult to imagine the sea birds looking bedraggled
with coats of oil.
“And for what benefit to those who live in the area or who
visit the Forth? The only beneficiary as far as I can see is
the Forth Ports Authority. Why should we have to put up with
technology that is potentially much more dangerous to the
environment than other options?
“I do not want oil companies to take advantage of the law so
that they are allowed permission from bodies who will not bear
any direct consequences of their actions. So my message is not
to go elsewhere, to countries where there is less democracy, to
lands where peoples’ views can be ignored. It is that we do not
want this ship-to-ship oil transfer. I am only interested if
they are prepared to invest in safer systems where there is
more control and where there are clear advantages to local people.”
1-3-06
The MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Andrew Arbuckle, has
welcomed plans for a new Forth crossing, after the announcement
on tolled bridges today by Scotland’s Transport Minister.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I welcome the decision to make plans for a new crossing for
the Forth. With a long lead in time required for such a major
construction, this only makes sense. I also welcome the
increased emphasis there now is on improving public transport options.
“But I would add that still more needs to be done to ‘lighten
the load’ on the existing road bridge. An extension of the
successful park and ride facility would help reduce some of the
car use currently travelling over the bridge.
“Obvious sites for converting into park and ride facilities are
close to the Halbeath junction to catch the Dunfermline
traffic; close to Kinross to catch commuters joining the M90 at
that point and at Perth where there is a surprisingly high
level of regular traffic crossing the bridge on a daily basis.
“A change of signing North of Perth would also help divert
traffic Westwards down towards Stirling and then south on the
West side of the country. Some 46% of all Forth road bridge
traffic heads West after crossing, so if some of this traffic
could be siphoned off at Perth then it would help reduce congestion.
“These are some of the measures that I would urge should be
taken up now to cut congestion on the existing crossing. We
know the existing bridge has a limited life span and by easing
its load we may give ourselves more time to get a replacement in place.”
A Fife police speed reduction initiative aimed at motorists has been backed by local Fife MSP, Andrew Arbuckle.
The Fife Constabulary speed reduction and road safety campaign aims to tackle bad driving behaviour and reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on Fife’s roads.
The campaign uses posters and other methods to target driver behaviour and get people to think about the consequences of their actions.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“This is a very important campaign that affects everyone in Fife, particularly as the festive season gets underway.
“Speeding and road safety are issues that regularly crop up at community meetings and I know that these are of concern to many people.
“Already since 1 April this year one child has been killed and sixteen seriously injured in Fife alone. Almost all were pedestrians and it is now time to put an end to this tragic waste.
“I certainly back this campaign and the hard work carried out by Fife Constabulary in tackling these issues head on.”
8-12-05
The importance of the beef industry to Scotland has been highlighted in the Scottish Parliament by local MSP Andrew Arbuckle.
In a Motion at Holyrood Andrew called for recognition of the industry, highlighted its importance to the Scottish economy and praised recent efforts to develop the industry in Europe.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I congratulate the Minister for Environment and Rural Development in getting beef produce back into European markets by holding a successful banquet of Scottish produce in Brussels recently.
“Prior to the beef ban being implemented beef exports provided a multi million pound input into the Scottish economy and any increase in beef exports will give a much-needed boost to the Scottish farming industry.
“I welcome the increasing confidence in Scotch beef and the development of a reinvigorated market in beef will be good for Scotland.”
1-12-05
Andrew Arbuckle, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, is supporting calls to allow the Black Watch to wear the famous Red Hackle symbol on all occasions.
Mr Arbuckle has written to the Secretary of State for Defence to urge a change of heart in the Army Board decision not to allow the Red Hackle symbol unless soldiers are in combat dress.
Speaking from Holyrood Andrew Arbuckle said:
“This is a silly and pointless decision by the Army Board.
“The Red Hackle Symbol of the Black Watch is world famous and should be retained when the new Royal Regiment of Scotland is established.
“The main recruiting area for the Black Watch is in Perth and Fife and the issue has been raised with me by many people who have family links with the Black Watch.
“I have written to the Secretary of State for Defence to urge him to look again at the decision by the Army Board that the Black Watch cannot use this symbol unless in combat dress.
“I have asked for the decision to be reversed so that the wishes of the Black Watch, the Council of Scottish Colonels and the Army Dress Committee are respected.”
28-11-05
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has urged the Scottish Executive to work to protect sites of historical battles across Scotland.
At Holyrood’s Question Time recently Mr Arbuckle urged the Tourism and Culture Minister to take action over the total lack of protection for sites such as the threatened Sheriffmuir battle site in his constituency.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I have urged the Scottish Executive to take action to protect and promote the sites of historical Scottish battles.
“These sites have great historical and cultural importance to the people of Scotland and are vital to our huge tourist industry.
“Astonishingly these sites have no protection in law, according to the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport. Although she informed me that Historic Scotland is actively developing a strategy for their identification and protection.
“The new Battlefields Trust will apparently list key sites and liaise closely with planning authorities on its development.
“A prime example is the proposed Denny to Beauly power line that will encroach on the Sheriffmuir battle site in my constituency. If the power line proposal is successful, it will neither protect nor promote Sheriffmuir.”
10-11-05
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has been speaking in the Scottish Parliament today about the future of local rail services in the region.
Speaking during the Scottish Executive Debate The Future of Rail in Scotland this afternoon Andrew Arbuckle said:
“Last Friday I visited a regular briefing on the re-opening of the Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine rail line. This was not only useful in providing information on progress but it was also very instructive on the demands made nowadays on new projects.
“Environmental assessment, health and safety and local community relations people are part and parcel of new rail developments and while some may grumble and worry that this adds cost, the bottom line is that there is more consideration and community planning given to new developments.
“Unfortunately their presence and the increased democracy of the 21st century also leads to long time scales. Much to the frustration of all involved, there are a number of major rail projects that are behind schedule due to difficulties with land purchase.
“Typical of these is the situation in Kirkcaldy where an extension to the car park has been put back until the Spring of next year. And the multi million pound improvements at Markinch station which have dragged on well beyond the original target dates. These are but two of the many significant developments in regenerating old facilities.
“Many of these projects accept that Scotland has a reduced rail network and in order to cope with increased demand, links have to be made with other forms of transport be they by bus or car in order to maximise rail traffic.
“For those who see heavy goods vehicles thundering down our road networks, there is also a need to get more freight onto rail. And that is why the arrival of Rail Utilisation Strategies will help balance between the needs of passengers and goods.
“After a century of neglect and decay, investment is now going into the Scottish rail network system in order to help meet transport needs in the 21st century.
“The Scottish Executive are showing the way with millions of pounds committed to rail transport. However, there is a problem with all this development and that is it raises expectations and demands for more.
“I would have joined the Transport Minister, Tavish Scott, on his rail journey this morning but the train from Perth to Edinburgh did not stop at my local town of Newburgh. The railway line runs through the town. Passengers in trains can see the old railway station as they pass through. The residents want the train to stop. Not for the pride of having a station but because it allows them to get a train to work, to leave the car at home, to cease worrying about the cost of fuel, to sit back and relax at either end of the working day.
“A similar situation occurs in Bridge of Earn where the station closed 40 odd years ago and now everyone commutes.
“In Perthshire, Blackford and Greenloaning residents also suffer from seeing trains travelling through their communities leaving only a toot behind. More and more people want the train to ‘take the strain.’
“While the Scottish Executive are getting the message there is a great deal of catching up to do and there is a great deal of cash required to get where we want to go - by train.”
Mr Arbuckle also questioned the Scottish Executive this afternoon on efficient government at Finance Question Time. The full text of the question is below, with full answer on the Scottish Parliament website tomorrow.
6-10-05
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has highlighted the issue of ‘roadside shrines’ in the Scottish Parliament today.
This morning at General Question Time Mr Arbuckle asked the Scottish Executive whether it would consider introducing guidelines for the sympathetic removal of ‘roadside shrines’ after road accidents.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“While of course I greatly sympathise with the reasons why grieving relatives set up these memorials, for health and safety reasons they should not be allowed to be a long term feature of roadsides.
“The bunches of flowers degrade but unfortunately the cellophane wrappers do not. The football colours may be significant to those who have lost their lives but they become a distraction to motorists whose primary concentration should be on the road.
“Similar concerns have been expressed about memorials on mountain tops and if anyone wishes to remember a friend or relative, then the best method would be to plant a native tree or shrub and see this come into leaf or flower every year. That would be both a long term memorial and also a benefit to the countryside.
“The Minister replied that there were actually guidelines in place. The guidelines state that management rests with the police in conjunction with family and friends of the deceased and that permanent memorials at the roadside should be discouraged.
“The guidelines also state that floral tributes should remain for a minimum of 14 days but for no more than 30 days.
“This clearly highlights the fact that few people are aware of this situation and that the guidelines do not seem to be used in many circumstances.”
23-9-05
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has been promoting green energy opportunities in the Scottish Parliament this week.
In a Motion lodged at Holyrood Mr Arbuckle called for the parliament to support the development of green energy crops and identified new opportunities for this fledgling industry.
Mr Arbuckle said:
“There are huge opportunities for Scotland to develop this exciting technology.
“Clean, green energy is vital to Scotland and to the rest of the world if we are to meet our national commitments under the Kyoto environmental pledge.
“These kinds of projects are ripe for development and we should support efforts to promote the use of oil producing crops for energy.
“At the same time as assisting the environment and creating jobs we can also help our struggling farmers.”
22-9-05
The MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Andrew Arbuckle, has been highlighting the benefits of the Pass Plus scheme for young motorists today.
At Scottish Parliament Question Time Mr Arbuckle asked the Minister for Transport if the Scottish Executive supported the scheme and would encourage its development.
Speaking after Question Time Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I highlighted the Pass Plus scheme to promote the potential benefits it can have on encouraging better driving in young motorists.
“Recent responses I have received from all of Mid Scotland and Fife's Councils show a patchy picture with regards to uptake of the scheme, with some councils enthusiastic supporters and others just lukewarm.
“The Minister informed me that the Scottish Executive recognised the scheme and supported its aims and hoped to see a reduction in road traffic incidents as a result of various efforts to improve road safety.”
15-9-05
The MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Andrew Arbuckle, has hit out at supermarket food purchase and labelling practices at Holyrood today.
At General Question Time in the Scottish Parliament this morning Mr Arbuckle asked the Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, Ross Finnie MSP, what action he could take over certain practices by the supermarket giants.
Speaking from Holyrood Andrew Arbuckle said:
“I asked Ross Finnie what specific measures the Scottish Executive could take in respect of the food purchase practices of the big supermarkets.
“I also asked if the Scottish Executive supported the implementation of a more honest labelling scheme for beef products to inform consumers of whether or not they are buying Scotch beef.
“Mr Finnie stated that he believed in promoting high quality food and high standards and would encourage good trading relationships between suppliers and retailers. He stated that consumers should be aware of what they are purchasing.
“At a time when beef imports are higher than they have ever been before, it is only right and proper that consumers are informed of the origin of their food. Recently, the Scottish meat industry highlighted the amount of Brazilian beef coming into this country and the fact that most of this came from a different type of cattle.
“Unless, we help to protect our own producers, with labelling schemes that do not break EU regulations, then there is a real danger we will lose a percentage of our home production of top quality beef.”
6-9-05
Andrew Arbuckle, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife and Scottish Liberal Democrat Finance spokesperson, has welcome the announcement from the First Minister today that business rates in Scotland will be brought into line with those south of the border.
The new Legislative Programme will also deliver on key Liberal Democrat promises including the establishment of a Human Rights Commission, a focus on health promotion in schools, and an independent Police Complaints Commission. The Programme fulfils at least 15 Scottish Liberal Democrat manifesto commitments.
Andrew Arbuckle said:
“Business Rates have been a major issue with the business community for a number of years and the move by the Partnership Government to deal with it will be a great boost to the Scottish economy.
“It would have been foolish to make such a move without considering the financial consequences like the Tories previously suggested. But now the Scottish Executive is beginning to achieve savings from its Efficient Government programme, then it is only right that these advantages should go to the engine room of the Scottish economy, the business community.
“The Scottish Executive proposal to provide even lower business rates for companies with large scale research and development departments should also provide a long-term benefit from the whole country.
"This new Legislative Programme will deliver on at least 15 Scottish Liberal Democrat manifesto commitments. That is a record of which we can be proud."
18-8-05
Andrew Arbuckle, the MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has welcomed the news that the Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine rail line is set to re-open.
Local communities and the wider Scottish economy are expected to benefit greatly from an economic boost after the pledge today from the Scottish Executive of further funding.
Responding to the news Mr Arbuckle said:
"I very much welcome the announcement that the Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine rail line is set to re-open after construction work is completed.
"This news is a promise fulfilled by the Scottish Liberal Democrats in government as the Scottish Executive is set to give financial backing to the project.
"The rail line proposals will provide a major boost to the regional economy and bring many environmental benefits to local people.
"The project will also ease pressure on local roads and of course the Forth Rail Bridge and I now hope to see a similar outcome for the re-opening of the Leven line in Fife.
"The plans will go some way towards repairing the damage done to our railways by the Beeching report in the 1960's. While rural rail lines in England are closing down Scotland is now seeing a revival in our rural and urban rail infrastructure."
The announcement of record profits of supermarket giant Tesco last month were just the latest example of how a large-scale purchaser can squeeze the prices paid to suppliers.
The UK government and the Scottish Executive are now taking up the same policy in trying to save on their public spending.
Earlier this year, the Scottish Executive published figures that indicated that up to 5 per cent or £200 million could be saved from the annual bill of public bodies outwith the NHS. Other purchasing savings of £50 million annually are included in the health sector.
And efficient procurement is the theme that will be hammered out this week at a conference in Edinburgh by Tom McCabe, the finance and public sector minister.
There is hardly a taxpayer in the land who does not want to see a reduction in the public sector spend, especially those living north of the Border where this is already over 50 per cent of all expenditure.
But what are the repercussions for the Scottish economy from such a policy where the buying powers of public bodies are bundled up before being put out to tender?
One which Mr McCabe has denied in his interrogation by the finance committee of the parliament is that it will squeeze out small scale suppliers. He considered that this would not happen as not all purchases would be "bundled". But if there are savings to be made in one commodity through adding together all the requirements of public bodies and the system is in place, then it will be difficult not to try to financially wring out small-scale suppliers of other products.
The consequence of squeezing out small and medium sized businesses from the supply chain may not be critical to the economy of a large country but with 90 per cent of all businesses in Scotland classified as either small or medium scale then there could be serious consequences from "commodity bundling" as it is called in civil service speak.
Another important concern arising from trying to squeeze cash out of the purchasing of goods comes with the buying of local food. The big surge in support for farmers' markets shows there is now a wider desire to buy good local food.
But even now, because of a lack of scale, the farming entrepreneurs in this market are unlikely to make it on to the purchasing lists of public bodies.
Having local food on menus of hospitals, council canteens and social work supplies provides a double bonus, with the customer having a better diet and the supplier reaping the economic benefit.
I do want to see savings in the public sector but I do not want procurement efficiencies to be used without thinking through the wider consequences to the economy of that policy.
Motorists using the Forth Road Bridge may just becoming used to the increase in tolls from 80 pence to £1 but another swingeing rise is not far away.
Liberal Democrat MSP, Andrew Arbuckle, said that it as now obvious bridge users would face having to pay two or three times the current level within the next two years.
“The Forth Estuary Transport Authority has an agreement to move from their present position on tolling to one where they will be part of a congestion charging regime.
“That agreement comes into force at the end of 2006 and changes to the present tolls will have to take place at that time.
“Under that agreement, repayment of loans given to FETA will have to be made.
“Remember that only last month, the Scottish Executive allowed FETA to borrow up to £24 million to upgrade the A8000. The Scottish Executive announcement may have seemed to help the bridge board but it was only permission to borrow to upgrade the A8000.
“That loan, along with the running costs of the bridge and any outstanding debt on the bridge, will require to be repaid.
“On present traffic flows, that has got to see a massive rise in the amount of cash having to be handed over.
“I understand FETA has still to agree the new charging regime but whatever is decided, it looks as if the poor bridge user will have to pay more.
While congratulating the Farmers’ Market scheme as one of the major successes in agriculture in recent years, Andrew Arbuckle, Lib Dem MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, urged participants to “take their marketing forward to the next step.”
That was, as far as he was concerned, co-operating to get access to markets that would otherwise be denied to them through scale or through their own constraints on time.
Speaking in a debate in the Scottish Parliament, Mr Arbuckle pointed out that Farmers’ Markets were now carrying out more than £20 million of trade every year.
This was a tremendous achievement coming as it did from the first Market in recent times in Perth in 1999.
But it had to be remembered that the output from the whole of Scottish agriculture last year was £1,600 million. This showed, Mr Arbuckle told Parliament that the success had to be kept in perspective.
He pointed out that farmers in the Midlands of England often have larger populations within 20 miles of their farms than the whole of the Scottish population.
This gave those selling produce in those areas a big advantage with their potentially massive consumer base. That was why he urged Scottish farmers selling on Farmers Markets North of the Border to link up to help them access other markets like the catering trade.