‘It’s summit to be proud of!’

Text from Paisley Daily Express, Mar 21 2009 by Jeff Holmes.

A GROUP of politicians attended a summit with a total of over 20 local voluntary and charitable organisations.

Hugh Henry, Wendy Alexander, Trish Godman and Jim Sheridan instigated the get-together in a bid to better understand the challenges being faced by the sector in today’s harsh financial climate.

The important summit, which was held at Reid Kerr College, took the form of a question and answer session.

In a joint statement after the meeting the Labour politicians said: “We all have a long standing relationship with the voluntary and charity sector throughout Renfrewshire.

“And we really appreciate the work they do.

“Not only do they provide help and support but they are often the mainstay of local communities.

“It was good to hear at first hand their continued commitment for the people they represent.

“But also at the same time it was important to listen to their concerns and the many challenges that they face.

“The work of the voluntary and charitable sector is invaluable.

“There is absolutely no doubt these organisations are contributing to the quality of lives across the whole of Renfrewshire.

“It was really a very productive summit.

“We will be taking up issues raised at the meeting with Renfrewshire Council and also with ministers in the Scottish and Westminster parliaments.”