MSP Welcomes Progress On Gypsy Traveller Sites

With thanks to Gavin Mowat. 

SNP MSP Christian Allard has welcomed the decision by Aberdeenshire Council to back proposals for four traveller sites across the North East. Mr Allard, who is a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Equal Opportunities Committee, called it a positive step in the right direction.

Aberdeenshire Councillors, last Thursday 12 March, agreed to creating the four official sites – although no specific locations have been allocated at this stage.

Christian Allard MSP recently visited Clinterty Travelling Persons Site to better understand the challenges faced in the North East and he said the Scottish Parliament is aware of these challenges.

Through his work with the Equal Opportunities Committee, Christian Allard pressed the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Communities and Pensioners’ Rights, Alex Neil MSP on a need for traveller sites for the North East. The SNP MSP also invited Mr Neil to come to Grampian and visit existing Gypsy Travellers sites.

Commenting, North East MSP Christian Allard said:

“I am delighted that Aberdeenshire Council has come together to agree this proposal for traveller sites – as SNP Group Leader, Councillor Hamish Vernal said it is a necessary step in the right direction.

“Developing a proper strategy will ensure travellers have suitable facilities and make it easier to intervene with unauthorised sites.

“Having adequate amenities for travellers is very important for the people of the North East and I am glad progress is now being made.”

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