East End MSP, John Mason, has started 2012 by re-stating his enthusiasm for local Community Councils but is disappointed that some areas still do not have them. He highlighted the valuable work these organisations perform at the most local level.

Community Councils are democratic, statutory bodies of elected volunteers representing the views and needs of communities to Glasgow City Council, other public agencies working in their area, MSPs and MPs. Many do much more, including managing local projects and organising special events.

Speaking of Community Councils, SNP Member of the Scottish Parliament for Glasgow Shettleston, John Mason, said:

“Community councils do good work representing local people. Their work is vital and relies upon the hard work of volunteers. Sadly a number of community councils in the East End are struggling to find enough volunteers to keep them going.

“I try to attend community councils in different parts of the East End as often as I can. There I can hear what the local issues are, share information and discuss issues that range from dog fouling and licensing to planning, gritting and many others.

“It is encouraging to see community councils active in Auchenshuggle, Baillieston, Broomhouse, Calton and Bridgeton, Carmyle, Dennistoun, Garrowhill, Mount Vernon, Parkhead, and Swinton. However, there are a number of areas where no community council exists at all, such as Barlanark, Camlachie, Dalmarnock, Fullarton, and Shettleston.

“The advantage that community councils have over other groups like tenants associations is that they are statutory bodies. Therefore, they have to be notified of planning applications in the area and the City Council has to listen to what they say. If anyone is looking for information about their community council or how to go about setting one up, I would be happy to provide information.”