Breathtaking arrogance

We have little to add to the excellent letter Insulting consulting (SN, 4/10/16) on the furore surrounding the naming of the new AHS hostel, but wish to echo its sentiments wholeheartedly.

The decision by Shetland Islands Council to conduct a public consultation exercise only to have the children and families committee summarily dismiss the wishes of 700+ petition signatories is breathtaking in its arrogance.

Shetland Islands Council was faced with making a relatively straightforward decision, which would have pleased a great many people.

Instead it has become a farce, entirely of their own making.

Never mind about parents. A lot of lip service is paid to the power of “youth voice” and listening to young people – yet on this occasion they have spoken, loudly and clearly, and have been completely ignored.

Our instinct is that this strength of feeling is unlikely to die down. It’s not too late for elected members to admit that a mistake has been made.

Prove to your rural communities that you care what they have to say.

JC Hostelite
Yell