Scottish Labour MSP Helen Eadie has written today to First Minister Alex Salmond MSP, calling on him to lend his support to efforts to make Fife Council reconsider their unpopular and controversial decision to close Council-run care homes.
Mrs Eadie said:
“It is evident from the public’s reaction, as well as the concerns that are being shared with me on the doorstep and at my advice surgeries, that there are very real concerns out there about how this decision will impact the care and wellbeing of elderly and vulnerable people.
“Seeking to push through this decision – despite a widespread consultation showing a majority of people oppose the move – is not in the long-term interest of Care Provision in Fife. Fife Council should be seeking to explain and justify their actions, not silence public debate.
“The shameful scenes that we saw recently when Lib Dem and SNP Councillors wouldn’t allow a full debate on the move – despite dozens of members of the public having taken the time to be their in person – sum up the problem. That is why I am calling on the First Minister to intervene.”
Copy of Letter
Dear Alex
I write further to the concerns that have been shared with me by a great many constituents at the decision of Fife Council to withdraw all future funding for Council-run care homes in Fife.
This decision will lead to the eventual closure of all the Council-run homes in Fife, and has clearly been pushed through against the wishes of the majority of people here, as evidenced not by a widespread public consultation but also the great many people who have taken the time to share their concerns with me.
I was further concerned when Lib Dem and SNP members of the ruling coalition in Fife decided to deny the opportunity for a full debate on this subject at a recent Council meeting, despite dozens of concerned residents having taken the time to visit the chambers to witness such a debate.
As First Minister I am sure you agree that Fife Council should be working with the public to ensure the best possible care for elderly people, rather than pushing through decisions against the popular will and then avoiding the opportunity to publicly justify or explain their action.
I would be very grateful to have your views on this subject, and would welcome news of any action you could take as First Minister to prompt Fife Council to review their decision.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
HELEN EADIE MSP
