Wind of change
I have just exercised my democratic right and like many in Shetland I look forward with considerable interest to the outcome of the elections that took place on Thursday. A lot of prospective councillors have pledged to represent the views of their community and I find myself asking what that actually means.
Clearly, whoever is elected will sometimes make decisions that run counter to my views and opinions so how do I want to be represented?
I think the key is that while we cannot always expect our views to sway decisions we can at least expect them to be part of the debate. I hope that the new councillors will listen to what their constituents have to say and ensure that the views of those they represent are voiced in the boardroom.
Once a decision is taken, I hope that they will be prepared to explain the reasoning behind it. I think that this approach has been sadly lacking in recent years, particularly, but not exclusively, in relation to the Viking Energy project.
Consultations are a fashionable activity in modern government but they are only meaningful if people feel that the views they expressed were properly considered. Community involvement means just that, and I hope our new officials will try to work with everyone in the community, not just those people who say what they want to hear.
Having said that, I do believe the wind of change (no pun intended) is blowing, but we should remember that it is not just about the individuals who take up office. We all have a responsibility to voice our views, to be active in our communities and also to support our councillors. They undoubtedly have an unenviable task before them.
Robina Barton
Bressay
Shetland News — free to read
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