Robert Brown calls for water deal for charities

12.00.00am GMT Thu 28th Feb 2008

Glasgow Liberal Democrat MSP Robert Brown has today called on the Scottish Government to continue the water rates relief scheme for charitable bodies, originally set up by Liberal Democrats when in Government and currently continued until 2010.

The scheme allows smaller charitable bodies in Scotland exemption from water bills, saving thousands of pounds, and allowing Scout halls, playgroups, hospices and many other voluntary organisations to save vital resources for use elsewhere.

During a debate on the water Industry in the Scottish Parliament, Mr. Brown called for a commitment from the Scottish Government to extend the scheme indefinitely, relieving charitable bodies of worry about a water surcharge on top of current financial commitments.

Mr. Brown explained that his call came against the background of likely knock on effect of curtailed funding to the voluntary sector as a result of the Council Tax freeze in Scotland, announced by the SNP Government.

Robert Brown said:

"It's about time the Scottish Government came out in support of the voluntary sector in Scotland. Organisations all over Glasgow strive to work to make life better for us all, with stretched resources, increased overheads, and limited funding.

"They deserve recognition for their achievements, but also recognition of the fact that they often struggle to make ends meet, and that's without water bills to pay for.

"The call for indefinite exemption couldn't be more pertinent with cuts to voluntary sector funding likely to pay for the freeze in council tax in the wake of the Scottish Budget.

"The Government should show support for organisations up and down the country - from care homes to nurseries, refuges and youth groups and make a commitment to the future of the exemption scheme."