Several constituents across Kinross-shire have been in touch with me recently regarding some recent - albeit temporary - closures of important facilities. The two which were principally flagged up to me were Kinross Primary School closures during periods of industrial action and access to swimming pool facilities at weekends.
It was rightly pointed out that Kinross Primary School is the largest primary school in the shire. Furthermore, many of the smaller schools in the Kinross High School cluster managed to remain either fully or partially open during the industrial action. So, this was naturally causing concern not just from an educational perspective but also because of the unfair burden on the parents who have to arrange alternative care arrangements at short notice with the obvious implications this has on their own working lives.
While I fully recognise that safety and risk assessments play a part in these outcomes, there does appear to be considerable inconsistency and so it is the lack of clarity which is leaving constituents frustrated. As of now, I am awaiting further feedback about the reasons for the most recent closure of the school and l urge full transparency on the part of Perth and Kinross Council.
With regard to swimming pool access at weekends, Perth and Kinross Council tells me that the main problem was over staffing and that they hope this matter will soon be resolved. I hope that is the case as these facilities are extremely important to the local community.
In the meantime, if you have any other local concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my Office.
