We welcomed another step forward in reducing restrictions caused by Covid 19. We are at the strangely named Beyond Level 0. It doesn’t seem a lot different unless you support football and can now attend matches or people who go to festivals and take part in other larger gatherings. These freedoms though seem to be causing an increase in infections and there is a threat of yet more lockdowns. Scotland is to have vaccine passports and just how they will work is yet to be decided.
I find it worrying the numbers of people who seem to think it is no longer necessary to take any precautions. After deciding, myself, to physically attend meetings found myself at one where many people had travelled a long distance to attend when provision had been made for them to use Teams as usual. At the other one the person sitting next to me suddenly announced he had no intention of getting vaccinated, wearing a mask or taking any sort of a test. I’m afraid I upset this person when I moved to the other end of the table.
I just thought both these behaviours a bit irresponsible when we have spent 18 months trying to keep people safe. Spikes of Covid are appearing whenever people come together.
I would support people’s right to refuse vaccination and/or testing but if that is the case remind them, they also have the responsibility of safeguarding others who have been cautious.
There have been many recent headlines relating to whether the A9 and A96 road improvements. I know a lot of people want these to go ahead as they are a lifeline for jobs and local economies. So, it was a relief to hear the Luncarty to Pass of Birnam was to be opened at the end of last month. Highland Scotland relies on these roads and people are fearful of what will happen should the A9 be stopped. Dunkeld is always busy with tourists can you imagine what the effect on the local economy if none could come?
Another threat to tourism is whether short term lets should be licensed? People have said to me it is a hammer to crack a nut as B&B and self-catering places are crucial to our local economy.
When the Newton Bridge was damaged and closed there was no doubt it caused major problems on the A822. Fortunately, it was not too long before the bridge was repaired, and the road was re-opened. I was asked to pass thanks on behalf of the community. I was happy to do this as people can be quick to complain but very slow to never to say thanks.
Remember
THINK LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, STAY LOCAL.
Keep safe, keep well and follow the advice.
As always, I am happy to take up enquiries on your behalf, it may take longer
for a while but contact me on 01738 475030 or email annejarvis@pkc.gov.uk

Anne Jarvis