SNP Westminster candidate for Banff & Buchan Eilidh Whiteford today urged people across Banff & Buchan to respond to the current cold weather by looking out for vulnerable people in their communities.
The SNP candidate said:
“With conditions forecast to remain arctic for some time to come, the Council and emergency services will be at full stretch trying to keep major routes open and attend to the most pressing emergencies.
“If you are able to, it would be an ideal time to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, make sure they have heat and that pre-payment meters are topped up. If you are in an area where there has been heavy snowfall, you may be able to help clear paths.
“I would urge people to consider what they could do to be a good winter neighbour while current conditions persist.
“It’s also important to remember the Scottish Government’s Energy Assistance Package is available and can be accessed by calling the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 or visiting http://www.energyassistancepackage.com/.”
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson added:
“The weather we have seen in the North-east is incredibly exceptional and with the conditions set to continue for some time yet it could be worst period of winter weather since records began.
"There is clearly frustration from people at the condition of roads and pavements and I am sure given the severity of the weather, the Council will wish to see if any lessons can be learnt to be prepared for any repeat in future years. In the meantime, I fully support Eilidh’s call for local residents to be good neighbours when it comes to clearing pavements or offering to pick up items at the shops for elderly and infirm. I also pay tribute to the many unsung heroes who are doing their best to keep roads and vital routes clear.
"That being said it is very important to recognise the hard work being put in by council workers, who have been working many long hours over the holiday period and continue to do so."