MSP Questions Scottish Water On Warning Delay

Local MSP Stewart Stevenson has questioned Scottish Water on delays in informing Peterhead residents of contamination to their water supply.

The MSP has also received complaints that Scottish Water’s Emergency Helpline went unanswered for long periods of time.

Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:

“I understand that the company responsible for the contamination reported it immediately to the authorities. Scottish Water have experience of handling situations like these so it makes it all the more concerning that there should have been difficulties encountered by those trying to telephone the emergency helpline.

“In addition, I have received reports that, in some cases, notification that the water supply had been contaminated was not given until some five hours later.

“I have taken these issues up with the Chief Executive of Scottish Water as it is completely unacceptable that a delay of this length should have occurred.

“I am grateful to the work done by Scottish Water staff in getting supplies of bottled water to those affected and I trust that a clean supply will be restored very soon.”

MSP Stevenson Welcomes Outcome Of Peterhead Prison Consultation

With the publication of the results of the consultation on the future of North East prisons showing three quarters of respondents supporting a new build prison for the North East, local Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has hailed this as an important step forward in the campaign to deliver a re-build for Peterhead Prison.

He commented:

"Although it has been a long time coming, Peterhead will welcome the substantial support shown by this consultation for a new build to replace the Victorian prison in the town.

"The option to build a new prison on the large area of unused land within the existing Peterhead prison walls is a clear 'winner' with half respondents making that their first choice. About half as many again would prefer a green-field site. Together they constitute a massive vote of confidence in the work undertaken by dedicated staff at our prison.

"We now need the Scottish Prison to press ahead with the preliminary planning for a new prison. While the money for the new prison is unlikely to be available until 2007, it is vital that the preparatory steps commence quickly so that conditions can be provided that will further improve the vital rehabilitation process undertaken at Peterhead.

"I congratulate all who have campaigned for the new build, particularly the 'STOP The Closure of Peterhead Prison' group, who contributed so much to ensure that we have moved so far. No other community in Scotland has shown any interest in taking over Peterhead Prison's role. The time for delivery approaches."

Stevenson Urges Nominations For National Lottery Awards

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson is urging local groups who have benefited from lottery funding to participate in the National Lottery Awards. 

Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:

“The National Lottery Awards will recognise the public’s favourite Lottery funded projects and celebrate the amazing impact that Lottery funding has had around the UK.  Last year’s Awards proved very successful with over 750 projects entered or nominated and I therefore urge all successful applicants to enter this marvellous scheme.

“There is no doubt that Lottery funding can have a huge positive effect upon communities and this is the ideal opportunity to celebrate this fact and to search for the most inspiring people and projects.

“All successful Lottery applicants, whether big or small, should enter so that they can share their success story and show how they have made a positive difference.

“Criteria for entry is that individuals or projects must have been awarded and used Lottery funding and only completed projects and those which can demonstrate public benefit can be considered.  The main beneficiaries of the project must be based in the UK and any projects that applied last year but were unsuccessful are welcome to enter again this year.

“I welcome this Awards Scheme and would be proud to see appropriate organisations from my constituency participating.  It is always nice to get the chance to celebrate success and for effort to be given recognition.

“Good luck to all nominees.”