Promoted by
Pam Currie, National Secretary
on behalf of the Scottish Socialist Party, 70 Stanley Street, Glasgow, G41 1JB

Have you ever wondered?

Why the poorest areas of Shetland have the lowest electoral turnout? Could it be because the candidates on offer have nothing to offer those at the bottom of the heap? We say its time to get up and stand up.

SIC Elections 2007

Vote for a change

If you would like a councillor who thinks like you, wants more say for ordinary folk in Shetland, then it’s time to think about voting for a change, and voting for your SSP council candidate on Thursday.
Your SSP council election candidates:

Kevin Learmonth (Lerwick North) and
Robbie Leith (Lerwick South)

You may be one of the 60% of people who don't vote in local elections, normally we could hardly blame you. But this time, we want you to vote for a change. A change in local politics. A chance to make a difference. Councilors who think like you do. Councillors who will not be part of some old boys network. Read more..

Where we stand

Value for money

The SSP will oppose council jollies and unnecessary trips which do not benefit the people of Shetland. We will ask tough questions about dubious spending plans and dodgy investments — before they happen.

Democratic trusts

I will work to end the council domination of local trusts, replacing them with democratically elected trustees representing all aspects of Shetland society.

Safer streets

I will work towards a 20 MPH zone covering all residential streets. Slower speeds = safer streets, less accidents and fewer bumps.

Getting our priorities straight

A council report showed that at least 7% of people in Shetland are living in deprivation. This is not acceptable. We need to get our priorities straight. Gold plated projects and handouts for the rich have no place when people are struggling just to get by.

Decent Public Transport

We will fight for a more frequent and affordable public transport system throughout Shetland.

Promoting energy efficiency

The SSP supports efforts to reduce energy consumption and pollution. We like renewable energy, but have serious doubts about some aspects of the Viking Energy scheme.

A caring community

We will fight to ensure the most vulnerable in our community are cared for, regardless of age or origin. We will defend the Christmas bonus against attempts to abolish it.

Housing

Rising house prices are great if you are selling, but for young people trying to get a first home, or people with growing families, it can be a nightmare. We will support moves to increase the supply of publicly owned, affordable, good quality housing in Shetland.

Working together

A commitment to work with and listen to workers and their unions. The recent mess over single status was partly a result of councillors having no contact with union representatives. We will work with fellow councillors to get the best possible deal for ordinary people in Shetland.