Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has today written to Highland Council regarding the proposed closure of 23 Service Points across the Highland Council area.

Commenting, Mr Thompson said: “I have written to Steve Barron, Chief Executive of Highland Council, to ask that he elaborate on the statement that additional services will be offered to folk who want a face to face visit and do not have easy access to a remaining Service Point.  Some of the proposals look like enhancements to the current service and this is good news.  I would be interested to know if home visits will be made available for instance.

“I understand that the Council has to make savings but I would appreciate sight of the mitigating proposals.

“I look forward to hearing from Highland Council on what additional services will be made available."

Notes:

Text of the letter Dave has sent to Highland Council:

Dear Steve

Highland Council Service Points

I have been contacted by constituents and organisations who have raised with me their grave concerns regarding the decision of the Finance, Housing and Resources Committee to close 23 Service Points across the Highland Council area.

I would be very disappointed to see Service Points close as they are regarded as an extremely valuable public information source and means of access to council services.

I understand that the Council has to make savings, but do not believe that taking out as many of the front-facing service points is the best  way to achieve this especially those which are already combined with the Libraries.

I do understand, following a conversation with Cllr Drew Hendry, that additional services will be offered to folk who want a face to face visit but who do not have easy access to a remaining Service Point.

I would ask you to elaborate on these proposals so that people can make a balanced decision on the Council’s plans.  Will, for instance, home visits be available?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Dave Thompson

MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch (SNP)