by Councillor Danny Lennie

So that’s it – the summer is just about over, but what a fantastic summer we had after another dreadful winter.

The scorching weather saw our parks crammed full, people were smiling and the kids having a ball. People were coming back from abroad with less of a tan than those who stayed at home – myself included.

One thing I have resolved to do from the summer is learn to swim. While away they somehow got me in to the water to snorkel of all things and I have to say it was an amazing experience.

They say you are never too old to learn or try new things so I am getting myself down to Clydebank Leisure Centre and signing up for swimming classes. If you don’t swim, no matter what your age, why don’t you come down and join me? You will be doing something new while getting good exercise, and it just may save your life one day. I know I regret not learning much sooner than this.

The Centre 81 gala day a few weeks ago was a resounding success. Residents of Whitecrook turned out in their hundreds for a fantastic day. I can not praise organisers enough for the amazing work they put in, from the burger stall, tea and coffee (with biscuits), the free funfair and the stalls, as well as the very excellent band on stage.

The news that Greenlight are on the verge of going in to administration has been a shocking blow to the area, not only environmentally but the potential loss of more than 100 jobs. We as a council must move heaven and earth to protect these jobs. The administration can not employ its usual tactic of blustering, dragging its heels or trying to make pretend deals behind closed doors, we need decisive action from the administration, we can not afford to have no service like Greenlight for weeks or months at an end.

The Labour group will present a motion to council next week calling for decisive constructive action. This motion should be backed by all councillors - this is no time to play politics. The simple fact is the service Greenlight provide must be maintained. If that means bringing the employees under the council, then that’s what we must do.

For the first time since they formed the administration the SNP must act on behalf of the residents of West Dunbartonshire and the 100 or so employees of Greenlight.