By Liz Fowler

A MEARNS councillor has warned increasing red tape is strangling the life out of traditional summer events in rural areas.

George Carr has praised the volunteer organisers of the many galas, shows, highland games and other events held over the summer in Aberdeenshire, which he maintains are beyond price in keeping rural communities together.

But he says the hoops they are having to jump through are increasing at an alarming rate and must be reduced, wherever possible, for many of these events to continue.

“In my own Mearns ward we have had nine galas in the towns and villages so far this summer,” said Councillor Carr. “These events raise funds for their communities and bring people together.

“Very often volunteers are staging major events with relatively small committees, but they do it with fantastic enthusiasm and commitment.

“However, I am hearing the same story from many of them— that they really are struggling to cope with all the increasing rules and regulations.

“Public entertainment licences, insurance, food hygiene, disclosure, stewarding, securing toilet provision, first aid…the list goes on and varies according to the event.

“Most of this legislation is very plausible and can be justified, but it really makes you wonder how we managed in the past.

“It emanates from Westminster, Europe, Holyrood and also from our own council which adds its own interpretation.”

Normally a public entertainment licence is issued by Aberdeenshire Council for three years and costs £90. However organisations such as Glenbervie Ploughing Association who move to different venues have to pay £90 annually.

Said Mr Carr, “This is clearly wrong and gives legislation a bad name as it fails to meet that vital criteria—common sense. Councillors and officers are currently charged to resolve this anomaly.”

He also sympathised with community councils now additionally burdened by the Data Protection Act, saying, “Community councils are now deemed to be data processors under the new act and will be forced to pay £35 annually to comply.

“Many are questioning this ruling and so do I. Aberdeenshire Council will pick up the bill for those within its jurisdiction, but I know for a fact that the council could definitely use that money more effectively spending it on much needed community facilities.”

He welcomed progress on promoting an umbrella insurance scheme for village halls, which he said was a sensible step forward.

He added, “Despite the hurdles, our community organisations deserve our full support and the more of us who get involved the more the load can be spread.

“I salute the work our volunteers do and now it’s up to my generation to step forward and help in any way we can to ensure our community traditions endure.”