re-gen north - issue 17

The Paper That Money Can’t Buy!

GENEAST DUNBARTONSHIRE

FR

EE

The Paper That Money Can’t Buy! FR

EERe-GEN

THE

NORTHIssue Number N0-17 February 2011

Pages 15 & 16

Re-GEN Sportby Tom Scott

In t

his

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WHO WE ARE . . .Glasgow Furniture Initiative - Scottish Government supported, local and city-wide charitable organisation.

WHAT WE DO . . .We re-use all donations of quality household goods to provide a low-cost home furnishing service for low-income clients, many of whom are finding their feet following illness or recovering from hard times . . . often in unfurnished accommodation.

WHAT WE NEED . . .

ONE CALL TO THE DONATION LINE IS ALL IT TAKES

0141 314 1450

We re-use all donations of quality household goods to provide a low-cost home furnishing service for low-income clients, many of whom are finding their feet following illness or recovering from hard times . . . often in unfurnished accommodation.

Glasgow Furniture Initiative

Please tell your neighbours and friends!

Incorporating Ruchill Furniture Project

WE NEED DONATIONS

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AGAINST

BIGOTRY Page 6

Dispersal Notice Update

Centre Pages

£3m boost for Possilpark

1

Maryhill Tenants Vote YES for Transfer TENANTS in Maryhill and Ruchill have voted to transfer ownership of their homes from Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) to Maryhill Housing Association. The ‘yes’ vote will result in the transfer of 2042 homes under the process known as Second Stage Transfer (SST). A total of 72.5 per cent of the tenants who voted in the ballot supported the transfer of their homes to Maryhill Housing Association. The turnout in the ballot was 39.6 per cent of all those eligible to vote. If Scottish Ministers give their consent, the legal transfer of homes will take place later this year. It will, so far, be the largest amount of homes to transfer to one organisation under SST. The latest ballots, in which tenants voted by post, text, phone or online, began in January and ran for 21 days. GHA Chair Gordon Sloan said: “I am pleased that tenants have voted in the recent ballot. We are committed to the Second Stage Transfer of homes from GHA if this is what tenants want and I wish the tenants in Maryhill and Ruchill every success in the future. “I would like to take this opportunity again to thank all the GHA staff and everyone involved for their hard work and dedication.” Willy Briody, Director of Maryhill Housing Association, told the Re-Gen North, “We are very pleased indeed to have secured such a significant vote in favour of transfer. “We set out a number of promises to GHA tenants and look forward to delivering on all of these. “The decision made by GHA tenants is another resounding vote of confidence in the concept of local decision-making by community-based housing associations.” Maryhill Housing Association is committed to improving their tenants

homes as well as building new ones (see story on page 10) and there is no better example of this than the renovations which they recently carried out in the Shiskine Place sheltered housing development. Improved Heating and new windows means the threat of condensation has

disappeared much to the delight of the residents and with the new intercom system now installed tenants feel a lot safer. Tenant Helen Donald said, “ Everybody says it has made a fantastic difference to their house and during the bad weather you

could feel the warmth and realize just how cosy the houses now are”. So far nearly 5000 GHA homes have been transferred to community-based housing associations through the SST process including tenants of Queens Cross Housing Association and North Glasgow Housing Associations.

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Willie Bain MP for Glasgow North East

Unit G2, Abbeymill Business Centre, Flemington House,110 Flemington Street, Glasgow G21 4BX

Tel:0141 557 2513E-mail: [email protected] Web:www.williebain.com

Willie Bain Surgery TimesSpringburn surgery details -Date: First Friday of every month Time: 2:30pmVenue: North Glasgow Housing Association, Ned Donaldson House, 50 Reidhouse Street, Springburn G21 4LS

First Friday of the month:Milton Community Campus, 204 Liddesdale Road, Milton G22 7AR (4:15pm)

Barmulloch Community Centre and Library, 46 Wallacewell Quadrant G21 3PX (5.30pm)

Third Friday of the month:Milnbank Housing Association Headquarters, 53 Ballindalloch Drive, Dennistoun G31 3DQ (2:30pm) Riddrie Library and Learning Centre, 1020 Cumbernauld Road G33 2QS (4:15pm)

Molendinar Community Centre, 1210 Royston Road G33 1HE (5:30pm)

PERSONAL ENTERPRISE SHOW

GLASGOW North Regeneration Agency played host to their annual Personal Enterprise Event at the end of last month. The Event, held in GNRA’s Enterprise and Learning Conference Centre, attracted individuals aspiring to become self employed and with an ambition of starting their own business. Free practical advice and support was on offer for those who attended and the event was heralded a success by all.Over 16 exhibitors from all over Glasgow came along to offer specialist advice on the practicalities of setting up in business and how to take the next steps in realising the “Dream!” From property searches, researching your competitor activity, to applying for finance and funding for a new business venture, all advice was given free and under one roof! Throughout the course of the day, information workshops were running and individuals were

able to drop in and take advantage of more practical advice. A coffee and a chat with GNRA’s business advisors gave individuals an opportunity to discuss their individual business goals on a 1-2-1 basis. Small newly established businesses also took a stand, showcasing their unique products and services. A colourful array from Himalayan Salt Lamps, Bonbons & Buttercream Cupcakes, My Hunnies embellished Garments & D&M Kids Entertainments DJ. They all spoke of their journey in becoming self employed and running their own businesses. Advice straight from the Horses mouth!The fantastic day was had by all who attended this event, other events will continue to run throughout 2011. Just click on the events calendar at www.glasgownorth.org for further details on the events and how GNRA can help you.

February 2011 3

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Margaret Curran MP and Frank McAveety MSP high-light the proposed changes to vital community lifelineMargaret Curran and Frank McAveety visited Baillieston post office at the weekend to congratulate Mark Adrian and his staff on the service run from and the success of Baillieston Post Office. They know how valued the local post office is to the people of Baillieston. This is great news in Baillieston but legislation recently passed in the House of Commons will mean the privatisation of Royal Mail. This leads to doubts over the future of the Post Office network which can no longer be guaranteed in the years to come. Margaret who spoke in the debate made clear that the legislation is a big mistake and is not supported by the public. Margaret and Frank took the opportunity to make passing shoppers aware of the change to legislation and asked for them to pledge the support by signing a petition. Barlanark Post Office is currently for sale and unless a buyer is found its fate remains uncertain. Margaret Curran says “

Urban Post Offices often face different challenges from those in rural communities, they too deal with isolation and represent a lifeline to their communities. We need to take action now to ensure that we do not end up in a situation on which a large retailer steps in and takes over the service. An elderly

person living in Barlanark may be unable to get to any of the large retailers in the community. A single mother with 3 children and without a car relies on local services that the Post Office provides. This legislation is a forerunner of many Post Office closures because we are not taking the necessary

steps to protect the service.”Frank McAveety says “ Privatisation of the Royal Mail has the long term threat to jobs and services at a local level. I will be working with Margaret to ensure the voices of the east end are heard and all the local post offices are protected”.

AMAZING WINS FOR GLASGOW DENTAL PRACTICE AT TOP UK INDUSTRY AWARDS

The team at Spring Grove Clinic in Barrachnie Road Garrowhill is celebrating the fantastic achievement of winning two of the top UK Private Dentistry Awards of 2010, namely Practice of the Year and Best Patient Care. It was also awarded runner up in Best Community Charity Project and Outstanding Individual of the Year along with being shortlisted for Most Attractive Practice and Best Team. Winning the Practice of the Year and Best Patient Care Awards is a great endorsement of the Spring Grove Clinic teams’ commitment to providing affordable, value for money, community based, professional family oral and dental health care, advice, support and treatment to an exceptionally high standard. The award winning practice prides itself on its patient focussed approach which is always courteous, efficient and friendly, set within surroundings that are luxurious, comfortable and welcoming. Heading up the clinical team is Dr David Cunningham who established his practice in Garrowhill over 14 years ago. Winning these two Awards recognises his firmly held belief that a community based dental practice, where patient relationships and trust are key, using the latest dental technology,

can provide the same level of treatment options, care and surroundings as a large city centre based dental practice. Commenting, David Cunningham said, “The team has worked incredibly hard to make Spring Grove Clinic a fantastic place for our patients. I am delighted that our efforts have been recognised by the top UK industry professionals.” “My focus has always been to provide excellent patient care with the very best dental advice and treatment. I believe in spending time with my patients, fully explaining preventative and treatment options to them and supporting them as they choose their treatment plans. I am very grateful to our patients for their fantastic comments in support of our Awards application.” At the Awards presentation, the Spring Grove Clinic team were commended for excellence across all of the categories, for the state of the art facility, and being a team who strive to provide excellent patient care. Its’ efforts in raising funds to support Yorkhill Children’s Hospital ECMO Unit won the runner-up award for Best Community Charity Project. Spring Grove Clinic is a leader in providing dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, invisible braces, tooth whitening and family dentistry.

McAveety Slams SNP Games Funding DecisionGlasgow Shettleston MSP Frank McAveety has hit out at a decision by Scottish Enterprise to slash Commonwealth Games legacy funding by almost half. Clyde Gateway, the body responsible for regenerating the East End of Glasgow, has been hit with a 46% cut in funding for urban regeneration in 2011/2012. The agency has been told it will share around £6.8 million with five other agencies, instead of the £7 million it was initially promised. Frank said: “The Enterprise Minister seems to be more interested in facilitating meetings for his friend the Education Minister, who he wants to succeed him as an MSP than he is in the well being of the people of the East End. At this very moment he should be pulling a meeting together with Scottish Enterprise to demand that they withdraw this ridiculous proposal and get around the table with all the partners to fulfil the promises made.”Frank added: “Unlike any other renewal programme in the country commitments were made to ensure that Glasgow could make the best of the opportunities for the Games and regeneration investment. There is no better case for having an impact on Scotland’s economic performance and I am demanding an urgent meeting with the Scottish Government to urge them to ensure Scottish Enterprise withdrawal the proposal to make a massive cut in their previous commitments to the area.”

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BLINDCRAFT RECEIVES ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVALHRH The Princess Royal returned to Glasgow’s Royal Strathclyde Blindcraft Industries (Blindcraft) last week and was shown the range of opportunities the workshop facility provides for disabled workers. Blindcraft is now one of Europe’s largest assisted workshop facilities, employing 260 workers, of whom more than 50 per cent have a disability. It is operated by City Building, Glasgow City Council’s arm’s-length construction company. During her tour of the factory, HRH The Princess Royal was shown how the latest technology is being used

to help staff produce high quality furniture to exacting standards. She met a wide range of workers on the factory floor to hear about Blindcraft’s diverse range of products. HRH The Princess Royal first visited Blindcraft in 2001. City Building managing director Willie Docherty told the Re-Gen North, “The visit by HRH The Princess Royal is a real boost for the morale of every worker and member of staff here. We were honoured with a visit in 2001 and we are delighted to have been able to welcome her back o show the real progress we have made. “HRH The Princess Royal may have observed a

few changes at Blindcraft since her last visit. New machinery means we can maximise the skills of our workforce to make high quality products which are also commercially successful. We have also diversified into manufacturing timber kits for new build housing and schools.” Blindcraft has had a presence in Glasgow for more than 200 years and now specialises in manufacturing a wide range of furniture and construction products. It works closely with a range of organisations that The Princess Royal is associated with, including Glasgow’s Helping Heroes, and employs a number of war veterans at its workshop in Glasgow. Blindcraft also fitted out the shop headquarters of the national charity Help for Heroes in Glasgow in January this year and is a regular supporter of Poppy Scotland. In November 2010, star of TV’s Secret Millionaire programme and former Scottish paratrooper Tony Banks toured the factory to highlight the close relationship between Blindcraft and war veterans (as reported in the Re-Gen North). Blindcraft’s workshop in Glasgow provides a purpose-built, BSEN ISO:9001 assessed, high-tech manufacturing centre, equipped with the latest automated machinery and a highly-trained and skilled workforce It is recognised as a one of the UK’s leading examples of social

enterprise through its commitment to the training and employment of young people from all backgrounds. Blindcraft also benefits from Article 19 of the Public Procurement

Directive which enables public contracts to be reserved to supported factories and businesses where more than 50 per cent of employees are people with disabilities.

4 February 2011 Re-GEN North

Sizzling Suzie’s Valentine Spreads

Anne is a Spiritualist Medium, Tarot reader and a Reiki Master & available for private consultation, healings and church

services contact, ANNE on 07506723569 Email [email protected] or visit www.angelanne.co.uk

New, A Psychic Post Bag, where you can write to Anne to ask personal questions on your life or from your loved ones on the other side.Please send your question and three numbers from 0 – 78 or a picture of your loved one in a sealed envelope toAngel Anne Smith c/o The Re Gen, Main Street, Baillieston.Or e-mail Anne at [email protected] note that we cannot guarantee the safe return of photographs.

ANGEL ANNE Psychic MediumAvailable For Private ReadingsReiki Healing and Attunements

Past Life RegressionsPsychic and Development Groups

Contact Anne on07506723569 or e-mail [email protected]

www.angelanne.co.uk

By Anne SmithValentine’s Day was last Monday and by the time you read this I should be finished counting all the Cards I received and the Flowers are beginning to wither. As for the chocolates well they are well and truly eaten, (what a vivid imagination I have Eh?). Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year that I don’t mind receiving a bunch of flowers from a garage forecourt as I always feel that the day is a complete Rip-Off as Flower prices go through the roof and as for the cards, they are really that soppy and don’t say exactly what you want them to say, (something like “Aye ah love ye but gonny lift yer cup wance in a while” would be more realistic ha ha ha) . Still I suppose we get caught up in the Day and continue to line the pockets of the florists. Enough of my ranting though, this week I have come up with a wee Romantic meal for two for those of you still in the lovey-dovey mood, it’s so easy to make even your hubby could do it...... .

Love apple soup

Tin of chopped tomatoes1 clove of garlic peeled and crushed1 chicken stock cube1 pint of water1 sprig of fresh thyme or 1 tsp of dried Small tub of single cream

Add all the ingredients into pan except for the cream. Bring to the boil and simmer for 10 min. Once you serve carefully drizzle the cream to float in the centre in the shape of a heart.

Blue cheese steaks

1 thick cut steak per person whichever cut you prefer.Oil and butter for fryingFrench mustard (optional though does add wonderful flavour)Small wedge of dolce latte or stilton cheese

Make a slit along the side of the steak and spread a little mustard. In a heavy based pan fry the steak in a little oil and baste with the butter turning once. Cook the way you like it. Set aside to rest. Mash the cheese with some butter until smooth light and creamy. Melt into the pan juices until it forms a loose sauce. Spoon over the steak to serve. I love homemade chips or a baked potato with this. A fresh dressed green salad lightens this meal, with very thinly sliced fresh tomatoes.

Chocolate Fondue

1 large chocolate bar. Whichever is your favourite.StrawberriesKiwi fruit peeled and cut into cubesHalf a ripe melon seeded and cut into cubes

Melt the chocolate in the microwave for 1-2 min. Stir well to avoid lumps. Serve the

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Your Horoscope Predictions

Aries (21 March - 20 April)

A stagnant situation is about to move forward and you will be feeling much more positive than you have done for sometime. You have the vision now to see where you want to go and what need to be change, charge ahead and make these changes reality.

Taurus (21 April – 21May) This is a great time to network and to get yourself back into the world, you are entering a phase of positive communications and there will be people coming into your life now who will help you achieve your dreams, destiny/fate is making the moves are you ready to deal with them?

Gemini (22 May – 21 June)

Changes, changes. changes, time to stop procrastinating and follow your heart and your ambitions, the wheels are turning and it is important to go with the flow, new people and new places are all around as you progress through this month, try to keep a grip on reality though and don’t let your imagination to run to far ahead. Number 5 is lucky for you!

Cancer (22 June – 23 July)

Outwardly appearances are fine and dandy, people like a pretty picture, but if you do not deal with what lies underneath that which radiates within will surface, stop hiding and deal with the important issues and get your life back in order.

Leo (24 July – 23 Aug)

All your communications must be done in an open and honest way as there may be someone around you listening and waiting to get something over you. Jealousy is a terrible thing and I feel it is important to keep your eyes and ears open, especially around those you are not quite sure of. Not all is bleak as there is a new opportunity on the horizon.

Virgo (24th Aug 23 Sept)

You have been taking on too much and your work load is at breaking point. You need to learn to delegate and allow those who love you to do more for you, as at this time you are in need of a little pampering, why not book yourself in for a lovely relaxing massage or light a few candles and lock the bathroom door and just RELAX.

Libra (24 Sept – 23 Oct)

Abundance comes in many forms, so remember health and happiness is much more important than money, you will find that lady luck is shining on you though and a little luck is coming your way. Just watch out for someone who may try to drain you of your little windfall.

Scorpio (24 Oct – 22 Nov)

Balance, as with all things chaotic, that which radiates within you surfaces sooner or later. So take those underlying matters in hand, once you have done that you will feel better for it and can plan ahead for your own hopes and aspirations!

Sagittarius (23 Nov – 21 Dec)

I ask you to pay attention to the synchronicity that are popping up and around you as the universe is answering your prayers. There are lots of changes coming into your life in the form of people, places, or homes. It seems that you are being given a key to unlock your dreams, stay focused, stay positive and they will become reality.

Capricorn (22 Dec – 20 Jan)

A time of peace is coming to you after a period of difficulty. Time to stop punishing yourself over past issues as you cannot change the past. Look forward with new eyes and allow the freshness of your new found site carry you forward into the tranquillity. Try to stop procrastinating!

Aquarius (21 Jan – 19 Feb)

You will feel a little lighter now, there seems to be a spring in your step. Time to move forward and you can now feel a lot happier about the next few weeks as a period of enlightenment flows into your psyche, trust your intuition at this time as it is so accurate.

Pisces (20 Feb – 20 Mar)

Passion is a wonderful energy, to feel that fire in your belly, the determination to succeed, the driving force of love, lust and adventure all rolled into one. You are entering into a new adventure wither it is business or pleasure allow that passion to be the e driving force and enjoy it!

Call us on:

01698 803909Email: [email protected]

www.athenaprint.comSuite 17, Ellismuir House, Ellismuir Way, Tannochside Park, Uddingston G71 5PW

5February 2011

Bob Doris MSPMember of the Scottish Parliament

for Glasgow Region

Surgery details:

1st Monday of the Month:Gala Bingo, Maryhill — 9:15amBalgrayhill Community Hall — 5:30pmSt Roch’s Church Hall — 7:00pm

2nd Monday of the month:Gala Bingo, Possil — 10:30am

Regional Office: Room 329 Baltic Chambers 50 Wellington Street Glasgow G2 6HJ

Telephone: 0141 204 0199

Email: [email protected]

The Scottish Parliament details with a wide range of issues such as health, education and training, transport, social work services, housing, planning, the environment, economic development, law and order, police and fire services, local government, natural and built heritage, agriculture, forestry and fishing, the arts and sport.

Ardoch House – What’s the Grouse?The Re-Gen North is in a quandary following our discovery of Ardoch House in Possil. Given that the Ardoch House Centre has just about everything that the people of the area require as far as leisure facilities and meeting rooms etc.... when then we wonder is it under-used and basically under threat? With the dispersal notice in operation at this time many local residents are searching for alternatives to wandering the streets but it seems to us that

Ardoch House is being ignored for some reason. It may be that there is some sort of past history connected with the Centre but honestly we are not really interested in the past we are more concerned about the future of the area and the future means that every facility in the area that is of use to the residents of Possil should be promoted and helped with the running costs. When we visited Ardoch House last week the staff were on a complete downer which was sad

to see as they have worked their hearts out trying to maintain the centre and once we took a walk around the centre and saw the Fitness Suite, Solarium and Five-a-Side hall we couldn’t believe that these premises were in danger of closing. Surely those in authority must realise what a tremendous facility exists within the heart of Saracen and to even consider closure by withdrawing funding is criminal. The exact same scenario occurred in the East End when the Caledonia Centre was forced to close due to lack of funding and for the past year the residents in that area have been devoid of any leisure facility much to the detriment of the community. There are times when cost is a consideration and there are times when the local residents are more of a consideration, these present times are crying out for local facilities to assist in giving those being moved on in the dispersal area diversionary sessions. As Glasgow looks

towards the 2014 Commonwealth Games and a more healthy outlook for its residents what is the point of closing down a centre with such great facilities? It will cost more to demolish and replace the centre if that is what’s planned especially during the present economic climate, than to take off the blinkers and look at the situation whereby lets are taken out for the

good of the local residents. The facilities in Ardoch House were previously used for referrals for specialist exercises, Saturday evening diversionary programmes and the like. These facilities still exist but apparently the costs are restrictive. To get the local residents involved in community activities is priceless and for the sake of a few quid we feel the situation needs to be reviewed urgently. Cutting off your nose to spite your face springs to mind but, as we said at the beginning of this story, there may be problems associated with Ardoch House. If so we would like to hear them but there again problems are there to be overcome. Have a good think about this and get back to us all you who are against assisting Ardoch House, we would be delighted to hear from you. The silence at the moment is deafening!!!

“To get the local residents involved in

community activities is priceless”

MSP ENCOURAGED BY PROGRESS OF MARYHILL BURGH HALLSSNP Member of the Scottish Parliament for Glasgow, Bob Doris, has welcomed the progress of refurbishment works at the Maryhill Burgh Halls site. The Glasgow MSP was part of a group who recently toured the site, checking progress on the Maryhill landmark currently undergoing renovation. Work started on Maryhill Burgh Halls back in November 2009 and is due for competition later this year. Speaking after his visit, the SNP’s Bob Doris MSP said: “I was very encouraged by the progress of work at the Burgh Halls. I am absolutely certain that, when this project is completed, the new Burgh Halls will be a real asset to our community here in Maryhill. “This £9.2 million investment - part funded by the SNP Scottish Government - shows a real commitment to recognisinglocal heritage and building a strong local community in Maryhill. I was pleased to play my part in securing £5 million of Scottish Government cash for Glasgow, as part of the town centre regeneration fund and it is clear from the work ongoing,that this funding has been put to good

use. “I am delighted that we are now seeing Maryhill Burgh Halls take shape and I am sure it will play a central role within theMaryhill Community, providing 200 jobs. It has been a long hard fight to get this far for the Burgh Hall’s Trust. I pay tribute to them and I am also proud of the role that both myself and the SNP Scottish Government have played to secure vital funding for this significant Maryhill landmark. SNP Councillor for Canal ward, Billy McAllister added: “It was a pleasure to see the progress of Maryhill Burgh Halls and, like everyone else in the local community, I am excitedabout the future of the Burgh Halls, which I’m sure will be a real community asset to our local area.”

Ardoch Childcare Centre

Ardoch Childcare Centre – a Stepping Stones for Families Service – is also situated in the Ardoch

House precinct. It provides high quality childcare and is a great place for children to learn and enjoy

themselves. Parents participate in planning and development of its services.

Contact: 0141 336 [email protected]

Believe in childrenBarnardo’s

A partnership between Stepping Stones for Families and Barnardo’s.CHIP has been based in Ardoch House for 10 years. Its central

location – convenient for public transport - has made it a good base from which to carry out community development work with families

and children in Possilpark and surrounding areas.

Contact: 0141 336 [email protected]

Children’s Inclusion Partnership(CHIP) Acu IT Solutions

0141 336 6682www.acu-it.co.uk

PC, Laptop & Console Repairs & Support

Are proud to be associated with Ardoch House

6 February 2011 Re-GEN North

NETWORK PRIVATE HIRE FULLY COMPUTERISED 24HR SERVICE PEOPLE CARRIERS AVAILABLE TEXTBACK TO YOUR MOBILE AUTOMATIC BOOKING SERVICE

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COUNCILLOR FOR WARD (21) North East

Bailie Gerald LeonardScottish Labour Party

Council Phone Number: 0141 287 5629 Email:[email protected]

24 Willowbank Street Flat 0/1 Glasgow

G3 6LZ

Provide safe temporary refuge accommodation and support to women children and young people primarily from black and minority ethnic

communities who are experiencing Domestic Abuse including services to women and girls subject to Forced

Marriages and the 2 year immigration rule

T - 0141 353 0859 F – 0141 564 1316E – [email protected]

www.hematgryffe.org.uk

25 Ardoch StreetGLASGOWG22 5QG Tel: 0141 347 1003Fax: 0141 336 4414

We Fully Back the “Build a Barrier Against Bigotry”

BUILD A BARRIER AGAINST BIGOTRY

Some people believe that asylum seekers are treated more favourably that the native Scottish population which is untrue.

The reality is that asylum seekers are not entitled to any benefits in the UK nor can they work and they have limited access to services. Another common misunderstanding is that the UK takes a large amount of asylum seekers, again this is not true as most people seeking asylum tend to move another country which is close to their own country, and in fact the numbers of asylum seekers that have come to the UK have fallen consistently over the last few years. At North Glasgow Integration Network we feel that it is of utmost importance that people are aware of the realities that asylum seekers and refugees face when they come to Glasgow, and that poor attitudes and understanding is challenged. It is our hope that all the people who live in the North Glasgow area live with each other in a spirit of understanding and harmony regardless of their race, religion and culture, in this way we believe that life in the community improves for everybody.

Donald Lawrie NGIN (North Glasgow Integration Network)

Development WorkerY People Central Branch

Floor 2833 Petershill Drive

GlasgowG21 4QQ

North Glasgow Alcohol Support Services (NGASS)

Room 11 Hyde Park Business Centre

60 Mollinsburn RoadSpringburn

G21 4SF

North Glasgow Community Food Initiative 71 Lenzie Terrace, Springburn

Glasgow G21 3TNTel 0141 558 2500

Our vision is to engage people in practical and sustainable food related projects that inspire health and well-being and celebrate the diverse nature of communities in North Glasgow.

City Building

City Building

RSBi

08456 001 323Glasgow Business Diversity Awards – Best Social Enterprise for RSBi

“Excellence is our contribution”

Councillor Gilbert Davidson (Scottish Labour)

Contact Me on 0141 287 2000

COUNCILLOR FOR WARD (21) North East

Fully Supportive of the “Build a Barrier Against Bigotry” Campaign

The Lambhill Stables charity is a vibrant hub serving the people of North Glasgow. We run a varied programme of activities in; arts and crafts, natural and cultural heritage, conservation and green technologies, stone masonry, dry stone dyking, willow work, outdoor and sports on the canal, cookery and gardening. Due to open in March 2011.Current office address till March 2011 :

Lambhill Stables, 34-36 Glentanar Place, Balmore Industrial EstateGlasgow, G22 7XT

Telephone 0141 336 4843Email [email protected]

“supporting this campaign”

“Supporting this campaign”

“Proud to support this campaign”

“Glad to be involved in this worthwhile campaign”

“Supporting this campaign”

“Glad to be involved in this worthwhile campaign”

“supporting this campaign”

THIS Sunday sees the next episode of the “Old Firm” saga and once it is over around 2.30pm local residents in all areas will be walking on egg-shells as rival supporters, who in days leading up to the match would gladly pass time with each other, begin arguments not over the merits of the actual football, but over Religion. Everyone knows it happens but no-one does anything about it and it’s left to the police and ambulance service to

pick up the pieces. Bigotry is one of the main causes of trouble in the West of Scotland and it is a sad fact that ordinary folk who you would think would know better, resort to hiding behind social network sites such as Facebook to cast aspersions on others who are not of the same persuasion. Some of these “postings” would sicken you and they come from both sides of the supposed “divide”. Why the Divide? If people can work in

harmony throughout the year, why then does a “Red” mist or in this case “Green or Blue” mist descend, when these two teams meet. A couple of things to think about as the game approaches are 1) When the tragic death of Celtic Legend, Tommy Burns was announced, many Rangers supporters on their road home from Manchester stopped off at Parkhead to pay tribute to the man. 2) During the 40th anniversary of the Ibrox Disaster, there were

Celtic scarves intertwined with Rangers scarves as people paid tribute to those who perished. This proves that in times of sadness people can stand up and unite, yet this Sunday, if a couple of week past is anything to go by, there will be fights and acts of disorder occurring all over the city and beyond. It would be fantastic if everyone could enjoy the game without worrying about the aftermath but we know this will never be the case as long as there are the mindless

bigots roaming about. Some household this week-end will probably end up in grief due to

mindless violence – Will You Be The Cause Of This? Please remember...... “It Is Only A Game”.

7 February 2011

North Glasgow’s New Jobs Initiative“A Beacon of Success”

Ready for Work: the young trainees with Willie Bain MP

Careers Fayre at Springburn AcademyNorth Glasgow HA attended the recent careers event at Springburn Academy. Susan Kelly of North Glasgow HA said: As a local employer its great to be asked to attend these kind of events. All the pupils we spoke to on the day were well mannered and polite and a credit to their school.

Careers advice: Springburn Academy pupils with Susan & Silvana

Emergency Gas RepairsTo report a Gas Central Heating Emergency Repair at any time, in-cluding weekends and public holidays simply call City Technical:

0141 646 5091All Gas Central Heating repairs should be reported on this number

North Glasgow Housing Association is changing the way we deliver our Emergency Repairs Service. From Friday 18 February 2011, all Emergency Repairs (except heating, see over) will be delivered by City Building (Glasgow) LLP during the hours of:

WEEK DAYS MON – FRI 5:00 PM – 09:00 AMWEEKENDS FROM 5:00PM on FRI through TO 9:00AM on MON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 24 HOURS PER DAY

To report an Emergency Repair during the above times simply dial the 24hr Call Centre

FREEPHONE 0800 595 595

Emergency Repairs Service

Please note that some mobile service providers may charge their standard call rate

A NEW training and jobs initiative for local people aged 18-24 led by North Glasgow Housing Association has been hailed a beacon of success by Westminster MP Willie Bain.

The Member of Parliament for Glasgow North East was on hand to present the first intake of recruits with their certificates and congratulate them on their achievements at the association’s offices in Springburn.

Craig Wallace, 22, said: “I’m glad I signed up for this programme. I now have a lot of the skills that companies are looking for and the certificates to go with them. It’s been great working in the local community and improving the local environment. There should be more programmes like this.”

Robert Tamburrini, Chief Executive of North Glasgow

HA said: “It’s great to hear of local people benefiting from this initiative. The training and the work experience over the past 6 months these young people have had will stand them in good stead in the jobs market.”

Willie Bain MP said: The success of this project is a beacon for me to take back to my colleagues at Westminster and let them know that the Future Jobs Fund is making a difference in communities and changing people’s lives for the better.”

The participants who completed the first phase of the initiative have now applied for jobs within North Glasgow HA’s new social enterprise company, NG2.

The second group of trainees are currently going through their training and early signs are that they are just as committed as the

New North Glasgow:a great place to live, learn, work, visit and invest in

GLASGOW North Regeneration Agencies (GNRA) and the Community Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV), organised an anti-gang violence awareness day which involved 28 local young people aged 16 and 17 last week. GNRA are one of the partners supporting the dispersal zone at Possilpark. The agency is working in partnership with CIRV and Glasgow Community Safety Services (GCSS) and the day was organised with the support of partners. Andy Cameron, Youth Advisory Services Operations Manager GNRA, told the Re-Gen

North, “ As part of GNRA’s broader youth employability programme, ‘Get Ready For Work’, we recognise that by allowing our young people the opportunity to become responsible citizens, we improve their employability opportunities.” The event took place at Petershill Sports Complex in Springburn and 7 Police Officers from Baird Street and Maryhill Police Stations (some of whom were on a day off), were challenged to a 7 a side football match by the 16 and 17 year olds. The game was followed by an open floor question and answer session

where the young people had the chance to ask the Community Police about the law and other issues that affect young people. They were then given the opportunity to see the GCSS “As it is” video – a video that shows the effects that gang fighting can have on young people, families and their communities. The young people were then

escorted by the Police to a CIRV “call in” session at Glasgow Sheriff Court where they got the chance to hear from a wide range of speakers about the consequences of gang violence. They were also able to find out about the positive life choices that they as young people can make through working with CIRV and their partners. The event was about providing young people with information and allowing them to make informed choices, it is also about taking the opportunity to break down barriers between local youth and the police. Sgt Aimee Canavan of CIRV told our reporter, “This event provided a great chance for young people to see

what opportunities are available to them if they want to get out of the gang lifestyle. This is not an easy choice, getting involved with CIRV is not the easy option, it’s about changing behaviour, and that takes time and effort. But it is a worthwhile choice, because it opens up a whole range of life opportunities that they might never otherwise have considered.”

0908 February 2011 February 2011

“Patricia Ferguson MSP supports extra action to build a stronger and safer Saracen, Possilpark and Hamiltonhill”

154 Raeberry Street,Glasgow G20 6EA0141 946 1300

[email protected]

Patricia Ferguson MSP

new north glasow a great place to live, learn, work, visit and invest in.

Call us free on: 08000 463812

Our support reflects our commitment to creating safe communities and building a new North Glasgow - a great place

to live, learn, work, visit and invest in.”

new north glasgow a great place to live, learn, work, visit and invest in.call us free on: 0800 463812

working in partnership with strathclyde police

“Our support reflects our commitment to creating safe communities and building a new North Glasgow - a great place to live, learn, work, visit and invest in. “

www.glasgownorth.org

Willie Bain MP for Glasgow North East

Unit G2, Abbeymill Business Centre, Flemington House,110 Flemington Street, Glasgow G21 4BX

Tel:0141 557 2513E-mail: [email protected] Web:www.williebain.com

“Dispersal Orders have worked well in other communities in Glasgow in the recent past, such as in the Alexandra Parade area in Dennistoun. What’s key is that this is not about demonising people, but giving the police powers to enforce the interests of the law-abiding majority, who want safe main streets to walk down at night in Possilpark and Hamiltonhill. We also need to work as a community to provide not just the facilities but also the activities to give our young people decent things to do – people volunteering and giving up some of their time to organise events for others makes a massive difference to our society, and is something Government should encourage within the welfare and taxation systems.”

What’s Up – What’s On at PossilpointThe Steering Group partners of the Dispersal Zone are hosting an Open Day in the Pos-silpoint Community Centre (Denmark Street) on Monday the 28th February 3-00pm till 7-00pm. The purpose of the day is to bring together all the local services and to let local people see for themselves some of the diversionary activities which are available.

It really promises to be a “FUN” day and there will be lots of stalls and displays with, Fun Bingo, Football Coaching, Dance Coaching sessions and a Free Raffle amongst other things. New Clyde signing Charlie Miller and other ex-professional footballers will be offering coach-ing sessions for local youngsters in the Centre (who knows there could be stars of the future just waiting to be discovered). There will also be advice on Healthy Eating, Keeping Fit and lots of other activities. What we are looking for are Raffle Donations for the day so if any local companies would like to donate something, we will certainly mention them in the next edition of the paper. If you have anything you think would make a good raffle prize contact us here at the Re-Gen North and we get it picked up.

Phone 0141 771 7039 and leave the rest to us.

“I was initially a sceptical that just mov-

ing people on would really solve the root

cause of the problem, but the feedback

I have got from older members of the

community is that they are feeling safer

walking around Saracen Street and the

dispersal order seems to have changed

behaviour since it has began. It remains

to be seen if people we just go back to

their old behaviour over time and if it will

need to become a regular police operation.”

Councillor Kieran Wild

Councillor for Canal Ward, Glasgow City Council

Scottish Green Party

“I can advise you that these dispersal orders are working extremely well and elderly people within my local area now feel safer to go out in the local area at night”.

Councillor Ellen Hurcombe (Scottish Labour)Telephone 0141 287 2000

There’s Life after Gangs

Some of the Police Officers with the Students at Petershill

The students who beat the Police team 8-7 at Petershill

Commenting on the dispersal order in the Saracen Street, Possilpark and Hamilton Park area, Canal SNP Councillor Billy McAllister said: ”The dispersal order in the Saracen Street, Hamilton Park and Possilpark has been in place for around nine weeks. While I welcome the initiative of the police and the reduction in criminality in these areas, it is clear that the dispersal order has simply displaced the problem into neighbouring communities.“What concerns me more is that, after 30 years of drugs and criminality in the area, this dispersal order does not represent a long term solution. What we need are initiatives and action in the longer term, to make Saracen Street, Hamilton Park and Possilpark safer.”For further comment, please contact Councillor Billy McAllister on 07984469269

Dispersal Notice UpdateAS the Dispersal enters its tenth week the area around Saracen/Possil/Hamiltonhill has certainly quietened down as far as groups roaming around the streets is concerned. The stats this week are, since the Dispersal Notice began there have been 56 people excluded from the area, 51 Dispersals and 7 Arrests. One of the main feed-backs we are getting into the paper is that although the kids are being moved on they are being given very few alternatives as far as diversionary activities are concerned. We at the Re-Gen North know that there are certainly programmes

running at the moment for the youth of the area but we are being told by many that these are not things that are of interest to the majority of those the Dispersal is trying to address. It may be that the young people in the Saracen/ Possilpark/ Hamiltonhill area, have not yet tried these activities and prefer the old excuse, “There’s Nothing To Do Here”. What we would like to ask them is “How come others of the same age as you are involved in other areas enjoying similar activities”? Maybe they have the sense to try something other than wandering about the streets. Maybe they have the guts to try and change their lives

around. Maybe they want to make something of themselves”. In these programmes and courses that are being run in conjunction with the dispersal notice there are opportunities to either train for or gain employment and what would be better than getting a job? There are loads of things connected with the Dispersal, it’s not just about moving you off the streets or annoying you (as many of you think), it is about finding out about things that YOU want to do and how these can be achieved. Why not take a trip along to the OPEN DAY on Monday 28th February at Possilpoint and find out more, it could be the best move you’ve made.

10 February 2011

£12.7 Million Boost For The Botany and RuchillA MULTI-MILLION pound housing boost for two Glasgow communities was unveiled recently by Lord Provost Robert Winter. Maryhill Housing Association has spent a huge £12.7 million to build much-needed new homes in Maryhill and Ruchill.The two developments at The Botany area of Maryhill and Ruchill Street in Ruchill provide a total of 87 homes with tenants having moved in recently. The Association told the Re-Gen North, that the new homes confirm the organisation’s commitment to building in the communities it serves and promised more homes in the future.Willy Briody, Director of Maryhill Housing Association said: “New homes for Maryhill and Ruchill are a key objective of the work of this housing association. “These properties have transformed two areas of our community and we readily acknowledge the support of our partners in our ongoing drive to regenerate Maryhill and Ruchill.”The first development at an area close to Maryhill Road known as “The Botany” dates back to the 18th century when the Forth and Clyde canal was developed and which is of great historical significance to Maryhill.The Botany is sometimes referred to locally as “The Butney” and historically was the departure point for Botany Bay penal colony in Australia where convicted

offenders were sent. Thirty five home have been created in the £5.9 million project and are a mix of flats and houses. They were designed in partnership with the Botany Consultation Group which included local residents ensuring the Association consulted closely with the community.Meanwhile, at Ruchill Street £6.8 million has been spent on a total of 52 homes - 43 of which are owned by Maryhill Housing Association and a further nine by Horizon Housing Association. The project was a collaboration between both housing providers.The properties consist of flats and houses with several providing suitable accommodation for wheelchair users.Maryhill has a strong track record of housing regeneration in Ruchill. As far back as 1994, the Association took control of properties from the then Glasgow District Council in one of the first ever stock transfers and proceeded to build new homes.The transformation of the community has been spectacular with homes which were impossible to let bulldozed and new ones built. The work is often held up as a shining example of the kind of community transformation achieved by a locally-based housing association.Both new developments were funded with money from Glasgow City Council and from private borrowing by Maryhill

Housing Association.To mark the launch of the homes Lord Provost Winter presented flowers to new

tenants - firstly to Ann Marie Sanders at The Botany development and then to Margaret Paxton at Ruchill.

11 February 2011

Millions of pounds is to be spent upgrading an area of north Glasgow which has lain derelict for more than 20 years. The Glasgow North Regeneration Agency has applied for permission to build a £3million Business, Employability, and Community Learning Centre on an area of land bordered by Saracen Street, Stonyhurst Street and Allander Street.NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde plans to build a £9m new health centre next door, and Glasgow City Council will invest millions more in the site to create a civic square.Community leaders say the long-overdue investment will help regenerate Possilpark, which suffers from high unemployment and a poor health record.The eyesore site where the new buildings will go up has been cleared while, with the assistance of funding from the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, work has been carried out to stabilise underground mine workings and contaminated land has been removed.Both the GNRA centre and the health centre will be entered from the new town square, which will give the Possilpark community a much-needed civic space. The agency’s website says: “The existing vacant and derelict site will be transformed into a lovely new centre and hopefully will create a new heart in Possilpark and give local people renewed pride in their local area.”Anne McAleer, head of enterprise and property development at GNRA, said work on the new skills and employment centre should start this summer.She added: “This has been a vacant, derelict site for more than 20 years and a blight on the area.This vacant, derelict site has been calling out for something to be done for many a year Anne McAleer, head of enterprise and property development at GNRA“It has been calling out for something to be done for many a year.”Ms McAleer believes the work planned for the

area will make an enormous difference: “Our new building will be a very attractive one which mimics some of the red sandstone tenements in the area. As you approach from Saracen Cross, you will come to our building first, with a larger health centre next to it.“This regeneration project is about addressing business needs in the area, providing spaces for business and new opportunities.“There will be at least 200 jobs on site between our centre and the health centre, and these people will use local shops, which we hope will result in an increase in vitality in the area. These projects will make a major difference to Possilpark. It is about time the north had this level of investment.“There is high unemployment, a lot of social problems and a high crime rate, and we hope to try to address all these issues by working in partnership.”As well as providing space for local businesses, the GNRA will provide training to help local people gain the skills necessary to successfully enter into employment in a competitive marketplace.It will also provide core skills such as literacy and numeracy.A healthboard spokesman said the outline business case for a new health and care centre for Possilpark was agreed in September, and is now being considered by the Scottish Government.A city council spokesman said: “This is a council-owned site and we have been working with GNRA since 2006 towards developing it for commercial, community and business uses. It would clearly be a boost for the physical regeneration of the area and a primer for further investment in the area.” Drastic fall in area’s fortunes The depressing employment statistics that are now almost synonymous with Possilpark are in stark contrast to the area’s proud industrial history.

Before it closed in 1967, Walter McFarlane’s Saracen Foundry was the heart of a local ironworks industry.More than 1500 were employed at its height sending iron products around the globe.The 80-acre foundry was surrounded by another 20 acres of housing which formed the beginnings of Possilpark.The foundry, which provided work for many smaller feeder businesses in the area, eventually closed in 1967 after almost 100 years.When Glasgow was the second city of the empire, Possilpark was truly working class with thousands

of men employed in the building and engineering industries.Since the late 1960s other major employers in Possilpark have closed one by one.However, the area is improving and the Glasgow Works group and Glasgow North Regeneration Agency are working hard to break the cycle of unemployment.Possilpark’s Saracen Street remains the main shopping area, but the whole area has been undergoing mass redevelopment since the late 1990s, which has seen many new houses being built.

£3m boost for Possilpark

Local MSP congratulates RoystonPATRICIA Ferguson has welcomed news that the people of Royston in north Glasgow, are making significant progress towards achieving their ambitions thanks to funding by the Big Lottery Fund. Speaking to the Re-Gen North this week, the Labour candidate for Maryhill & Springburn, which includes the community of Royston, offered her congratulations to local groups who have received over £80,000 in funding to develop project plans for nine proposals which they submitted following a period of consultation with local people last year.

The proposals include plans for a local apprenticeship programme, a community transport initiative, a community cafe and healthy eating project.Patricia Ferguson said: “This is great news for the community of Royston, and is another step towards local people realising their ambitions. A lot of work has already been done by the community to identify their priority issues, and with the support of the Big Lottery Fund progress can made on developing these ideas further.“Royston is a great place to live

with a strong community spirit. The development of projects such as a local apprenticeship programme, community transport initiative and community cafe would go a long way to ensuring local residents get the opportunity to realise their ambitions.“I wish everyone involved in taking the plans forward all the very best and look forward to seeing the development of the proposals over the coming months.”

“Royston is a great place to live with a strong community spirit.”

Fire Wipes Out Sighthill Centre

SIGHTHILL Community Centre was gutted last week following a major blaze which was attended by three fire crews. The Centre in Huntington Square, which only opened in August 2009 following a total refurbishment, was suddenly closed in June 2010 and had been lying empty since, becoming a target for break-ins recently. The Re-Gen North covered the opening of the “One Stop Shop” as it was known and we were amazed that

such a tremendous facility was closed after such a short period of time. Now following the blaze it seems that the residents of Sighthill are to be left without a Centre, as such a tremendous facility couldn’t be re-opened during the time it closed, until it went on fire. What chance is there now of wasting public money in replacing what could have been saved, when it was in a pristine condition? We await with interest as to what will happen now.

12 February 2011

Parliamentary Patter

Paul Martin MSPConstituency Office

604 Alexandra Parade. GlasgowG31 3BS

0141 564 1364

Paul Martin MSP

Patricia Ferguson MSP

Willie Bain MP0141 557 2513

www.williebain.com

Willie Bain MP

Patricia Ferguson MSP154 Raeberry Street,

Glasgow G20 6EA0141 946 1300

[email protected]

[email protected]

Bob Doris MSP

Room 329 Baltic Chambers 50 Wellington Street Glasgow G2 6HJ 0141 204 0199 [email protected]

Glasgow is Ripped Off –Again!

Glasgow may not be Scotland’s capital city but it is one of the most important drivers of the Scottish Economy. Without investment in the City’s infrastructure it will be unable to grow and develop and so help the whole country emerge from the economic downturn. That is why it is particularly disappointing that the SNP Government has made a number of decisions which restrict Glasgow’s ambition and run

counter to their own stated aim of prioritising economic growth. The Glasgow Airport Railink was scrapped in spite of the millions of pounds already spent on it, Crossrail has also been removed and their support for Fastlink, a high speed bus link to key sites north and south of the Clyde, seems to have stalled – or perhaps funding for this scheme will suddenly appear in the run up to the Scottish Parliament elections.

The Scottish Government has also cut

the amount of money that comes to the City Council to help them provide vital services such as education for our children and young people and support for the most vulnerable in our society. The City Council had budgeted for a 2.6% cut but was then advised that the actual cut would be 3.6% which amounts to an extra £13.6 million in cuts.

Labour in the Scottish Parliament decided that it could not support a budget that was simply implementing

the cuts agenda of the Conservative/Liberal Democrat Government at Westminster and voted against it. The SNP Government, with the help of the Tories and Liberals, managed to push through a budget that did not provide enough support for young people hoping to get into employment and one which means there will be cuts in the budgets to our Universities and Colleges as well as our councils.

Once again the SNP failed to stand up for Glasgow.

It has been a truly historic week for the people of Egypt. By the power of peaceful protest they have removed a leader who had lost his moral authority to rule, and changed the way politics and society is run in a nation of 80million people. The strong expectation from the people of Egypt and the international community is that the temporary period of military and judicial rule must give way to fair and free elections in Egypt so the people can choose their own civilian rulers without interference. President Obama’s remarks last week remind us of the power of the basic human desire for freedom of expression and association, whatever our differences of race, culture, or language. The events in Cairo this week may have a profound effect on the entire Middle East region for years to come. Citizens across the region - and the world - who live under regimes which use repression to deny them

basic democratic rights and freedoms’ will be inspired by the swell of people-power which grew in Cairo, transforming the political landscape. Here in the UK, we may be 2,000 miles from the streets of Cairo but the impact of the Egyptian protests will be felt. In this intertwined interdependent world protests are infectious, and lessons will be learnt from the scenes in Cairo. Next month, on the 26th March, the Trade Union Congress will lead a ‘March for the Alternative’ through London. The millions marching will call for an end to the deep spending cuts which are damaging public services, hitting the vulnerable, and threatening our recovery; in its place they will be asking for a clear alternative based on jobs, growth and justice. If this alternative is to be realised though, then we must begin with serious reform of the banking sector. Reform, however, seems unlikely. This year

it’s ‘business as usual’ for Britain’s biggest banks as they prepare to defy public opinion and hand out an estimated £6 billion in bonuses. But instead on challenging this multibillion-pound payout, David Cameron is protecting the bankers by calling for an end to “banker bashing”. The Conservative-led Government are unwilling to tackle the culture of enormous rewards given to senior bankers in the city simply because the Conservatives themselves are benefiting from these bonuses. Since David Cameron became Conservative leader in December 2005, the amount of money the City has given to bankroll the Tories has gone up fourfold, to £11.4m a year. Bankers’ money paying for Conservative Party election bill boards, leaflets, and manifesto polices. In contrast the Labour Party receives more than 80% of its funding from average workers who, as trade union members, pay into

the political fund. Labour are also serious about reforming banking sector, so that once again we can trust them as custodians of our savings and investors in our nation. Labour have called for a 50% bank bonus tax to be introduced for at least two-years (raising £3.5bn annually); for real investment into a green investment bank, and for proper support through lending to domestic businesses, including start-ups, by agreeing more ambitions lending targets with those banks in which the Government have a stake. Labour’s program of sweeping reforms may be rejected by a Conservative Party with vested interests in protecting a ‘status-quo’ banking-sector, but as the cuts begin to bite, as inflation and interest rates rise, and as the bankers wallets get fatter still, it may well be the ordinary citizens of this country who - just as in Egypt - are instrumental in changing the path of our own Government.

Figures have just been released that show over half a million antisocial behaviour complaints are likely to have gone unreported last year. New figures revealed by Lothian and Borders Police found that a shocking 70 per cent of antisocial behaviour complaints went unreported. If this trend is replicated across Scotland then this would mean that over 500,000 antisocial incidents were not

reported to the police last year.All too often local residents tell me they do not report antisocial incidents because they fear reprisals, or they are concerned that their complaint will not be followed up. Local people need to feel confident that their call will be treated seriously and that the police will respond within a reasonable timeframe. The sad fact is that anti-social behaviour continues to blight too many communities across

Scotland.The SNP Government has been dismissive of antisocial behaviour. They have failed to recognise the real problems out there in out communities. The 2004 Antisocial Behaviour Act provides legal remedies to ensure authorities have no excuses for not tackling antisocial behaviour. The SNP Government has spent far too much time debating the concerns of the perpetrators

of this behaviour and too little time on victims of crime. I hope that after the Scottish Parliament elections in May 2011 a Labour Government will get a chance to change that. I would like to see a Victims’ Commissioner, after all prisoners in Scotland have their own Commissioner – it’s time that victims of crime had someone to speak for them.

Last week saw Holyrood approve the Scottish Government’s budget for 2011/12 and, whilst I was delighted to see the budget pass, I was a little perplexed and somewhat astonished to learn that Labour had voted AGAINST the budget for purely party political reasons. Even in the face of £1.3 billion pounds worth of UK cuts, the Finance Secretary, John Swinney, has produced a fair budget and I was surprised at some of the measures Labour voted

against. In this year’s budget, the SNP Government provided funding for 25,000 new modern apprenticeships for Scotland’s young people. Labour voted against this. The SNP Government also committed to a continued Council Tax freeze. Labour voted against this. Amongst other things in the budget was funding to scrap prescription charges, funding to continue the small business bonus and money to provide £15 million worth of funding for Scotland’s poorest college students. Labour

voted against all of these. During the budget debate, I made the point that now is not the time for party politics, but now is the time for unity to get Scotland through these tough economic times. I find it absolutely astonishing that Labour – who claim to be the party of the working class – voted against 25,000 ordinary Scots getting a modern apprenticeship. SNP Scottish Government action has helped unemployment fall but the economy remains fragile and now is not the time for political

posturing. At the forthcoming election, people have a number of choices: one of which is choosing a Government that helps ordinary working people, just like Labour used to. People can go with a second term SNP Government that is promoting continued economic recovery or petty party politics with Labour. The choice is yours and, in my opinion, clear as day.- Bob Doris is an MSP for Glasgow and is the SNP candidate for Maryhill & Springburn at the forthcoming Holyrood elections.

13 February 2011

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Police officers from the community proactive team in Maryhill have recovered 850 valium tablets and an amount of cannabis from an address in Alford Street. Searching the property under warrant, the officers also found two large knives hidden under a bed. One man was detained and held in custody pending a court appearance the following day.

After watching a transaction taking place in the Wyndford area, police detained a man and recovered £6500 together with a quantity of drugs. The man was later charged and held custody for court.

Strathclyde Police are appealing for witnesses after a wilful fireraising took place about 5.30pm on Tuesday 8 February at the Glasgow Club in Liddesdale Road, Milton. Two youths, aged about 14 and wearing dark hooded tops, set fire to a crate on the football ground which then caused further damage to the surrounding astroturf and goalposts. The total cost of the damage is estimated to be about £14,500. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Maryhill Police Office on 0141 532 3700 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Strathclyde Police are appealing for witnesses following a break-in at Chirnsyde Primary School. Between 6pm on Tuesday 8 February and 6am the following day, suspects gained access to the school, and made off with two laptop computers. The alarm was activated about 9.15pm however the premises appeared to be secure when checked at this time.Anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area should come forward, or contact Maryhill Police Office on 0141 532 3700 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

After British Gas had entered a property at 151 Wyndford and noted that the electricity meter had been tampered with, police officers from the Community Impact team obtained a warrant to search the premises. Inside, officers recovered 23 cannabis plants and various other pieces of equipment for the production of controlled drugs. After housing checks were carried out, a 39-year-old man was interviewed and charged with offences relating to Misuse of Drugs and the electricity act.

After a report was received of a disturbance at 71 Glenavon Road, police response officers attended and were met by three injured people and a trail of blood. Following extensive enquiries, two men were identified and one was arrested and held custody for various serious assaults. Enquiry is ongoing to trace the second accused.

A 26-year-old man was detained and a quantity of controlled drugs and various other equipment used in the supply of controlled drugs were seized after police officers from Maryhill attended at an address in Amisfeild Street in possession of a search warrant. The accused was held in custody pending his ap-pearance at court.

Police have detained a 22-year-old man after being called to a violent domestic incident in a flat at Scaraway Terrace where a woman had been punched, kicked and stamped on in the presence of her three-year-old daughter. After enquiries, the man was arrested and held custody for court.

Stobhill Emergency Unit to ShutONE of the major casualty units in the area has lost its fight to remain open following a decision taken this week to close Stobhill Hospital Emergency Unit on the 18th of March. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde agreed to the decision at a meeting held last Tuesday and all that will remain at Stobhill will be a Minor Injuries Unit (open from 9-00am till 9-00pm). When it was first announced that the emergency unit faced closure it sparked a major campaign that saw not only a 43,000 strong petition being handed over, but also Dr Jean Turner elected as an MSP to Holyrood as the

protests raged. Now with this decision and the proposed transfer of the many of the facilities in use at Lightburn Hospital to Stobhill Hospital residents in both the North of Glasgow and the East End are wondering just who is making the decisions at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and if they really care about what local residents say or think. At the meeting we believe that not a single question was raised against the closure which is hard to fathom but there again these are the people who on Sunday after the “Old Firm” match, will probably be moaning about the lack of resources to treat those

who sustained injuries in the aftermath. The closure by all accounts means that the Glasgow Royal Infirmary and The Western will therefore have longer waiting times and fewer beds for patients who need to be admitted resulting in a poorer service for all. The Health Board have stated that they have invested £35 million in the “Royal” to enhance and expand the hospital in preparation for the transfer of Stobhill In-Patients and Casualty Services. Hope you can cope with the results or will it mean more and more cuts in the service we used to take pride in.

GLASGOW’S biggest and most colourful 5K Fun Run returns for an amazing 6th year and promises to be TOTALLY OUT OF THIS WORLD! ng5k is one of the only events of its kind where participants of all ages and levels of ability take part together. And unlike similar running events in the city, ng5k is completely FREE to enter with

nearly 3,000 participants expected to sign up. Last April’s event saw hundreds of fun runners run, walk, or jog their way around the 5K route dressed as their favourite superheroes, pushing prams, buggies and wheelchairs, as well as taking the opportunity to raise thousands of pounds for charity and local good causes. Organisers are once again asking fun runners to don their best fancy dress with this year’s suggested theme as ‘OUT OF THIS WORLD’ with spot prizes on the day for the best costumes. Every ng5k fun runner receives a FREE winner’s medal, bottled water, fruit, and a Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer! The route will take participants along the roads surrounding Ruchill Park with plenty of entertainment along the way to keep fun runners in high spirits including local samba drumming groups and a five piece jazz band. ng5k is also home to the ‘Health & Wellbeing Village’

hosted by a wide range of local health organisations and community groups on hand to offer participants free advice, information as well as the opportunity to sample FREE ‘taster’ sessions in sports massage and fitness testing. A whole host of other FREE fun activities and attractions are planned inside the park from 9am till 1pm to keep the crowds entertained.

REGISTRATION

Registration opens at 12noon on Wednesday 23rd February. Register on-line at www.healthynorthglasgow.co.uk or pick up a registration form available from various community outlets across North Glasgow. Last year’s event was so popular that places were all snapped up in record time and registration was closed over 6 weeks early. This year, spaces will be allocated on a strictly first come first served basis so register TODAY to avoid disappointment. Sign up to our online newsletter

to receive all the latest ng5k updates including information on Northern Sole Mates – our network of FREE local jogging and walking groups; tips to help you prepare for the event; competitions, and loads more!

PARTNERS/SPONSORS

North Glasgow Healthy Living Community leads the planning and

coordination of the event and is gratefully supported by:Glasgow City Council (Events, Parks, Roads), Strathclyde Police, Glasgow Life Communities, Glasgow Community Health Partnership, Glasgow Community Planning Partnership, Possilpark Millennium Leisure Centre, Active Schools, Tunnock’s Ltd, North Area Transport Association, Glasgow Credit Union.

14 February 2011

Re-GEN North ClassifiedCall Paula On: 0141 771 7039

NG5K: TOTALLY OUT OF THIS WORLD!North Glasgow Healthy Living Community Presents:The 6th Annual North Glasgow 5K Fun Run – ‘ng5k’

SUNDAY 17th APRIL 2011, RUCHILL PARK, 9AMFREE ENTRY!

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Call:07532 372 975

90/130 Glenpark Street, Dennistoun

Glasgow, G31 1NZTelephone

0141 556 7082

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