Issue 141 | February 2023

Hello and welcome to the new issue of the Voice for Arran. We hope the start of February finds you well! Based on a Celtic tradition, the celebration of Imbolc begins today, marking the mid-point between the winter solstice and spring equinox. Though happy for the assurance of spring soon to come, after an astronomical energy bill this month, I have nearly all appliances off and am wearing at least three jumpers, while I contemplate the themes that have come in with this issue, of war, climate change and energy.

For this month marks a whole year of war in Ukraine, and despite the present heightened risk of nuclear war, last week Scottish campaigners were also observing the second anniversary of the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. While the Treaty is growing in stature and credibility, despite the nuclear states refusal to engage with it, sitting here writing in the semi darkness, I am wondering if and how all these things might be connected.

The upcoming council budget here in North Ayrshire seems to be another related issue. In a recent survey the council asked for our views on the future of local services. With their very limited resources, they asked what are the most important things for them to focus on in the next year. As far as I could tell nearly all the options given were essential – keeping sufficient numbers of teachers in schools, action on climate, maintaining roads and tracks, outdoor education. NAC wrote, “We are facing unprecedented budget challenges due to factors that are largely beyond our control, including rapidly rising energy costs, inflation and the cost-of-living crisis.”

In these uncertain times, it is good to be reminded there are things we can do that can make a difference. As Katy Clark suggests in her response to the budget, the government could use their tax raising powers. She said, “Under the devolved settlement, the Scottish Government can create local levies on inheritance, workplace parking, carbon emissions and tourism“ so that "Instead of passing on cuts to local government, they must explore every possible avenue to ensure vital public services are not only protected but improved in the years to come.”  And as I have found out, although my enormous debt to SSE isn’t good news in many ways, it has meant I have implemented some radical energy saving measures I otherwise may not have just now.

Alongside these matters, there is a lot going on in Arran this month and interesting events to look forward to. There is an ArranSound Listen In radio play, meetings with the Arran Saltire Society and the Arran Natural History Society, a Corrie Film Club mini festival, and a really lovely concert with Music Arran and the Gould Piano Trio. There are also some timely energy workshops with the Eco Savvy Green Islands Project, where participants will be able to sign up to get an EPC for their home, and find out about ways to reduce energy use. I will also be writing to councillors in support of the Arran Outdoors for All campaign, which has been set up to highlight what an incredible asset the Arran Outdoor Education Centre is in the face of its possible closure.

Wishing you all a lovely month, Elsa