Press Releases

WISHART COMMENTS FOLLOWING PUBLIC FLOOD MEETING

News Release from Pete Wishart MP

Attn: News Desk                                                     For immediate release: 28 October 2022

WISHART COMMENTS FOLLOWING PUBLIC FLOOD MEETING

Pete Wishart, MP for Perth and North Perthshire, has commented following the public meeting that took place today in relation to Perth’s flooding problem. Mr Wishart hosted the meeting at Craigie Church Hall this afternoon with a panel of representatives from SEPA, Scottish Water, Perth and Kinross Council and the Scottish Flood Forum, as well as Jim Fairlie MSP. Around 100 members of the public are estimated to have attended.

Commenting, Mr Wishart said:

“The turnout at the flood meeting is a testament to what a huge issue this now is for the people of Perth. The panel heard heart-wrenching stories from residents who have had to spend tens of thousands of pounds on repairs and flood protections; who can no longer get their properties insured; and who live in constant fear of the next major flooding event happening.

“The feedback I have received from the meeting is that residents are glad to have been able to express their concerns with all of the stakeholders in one room. However, what is also clear is that a lot more cross-sector co-operation is needed going forward if we are to tackle this massive challenge effectively. Residents are fed up of their concerns being passed about and brushed off – they simply want action.

“While it is true to say that climate change is exacerbating these events, which of course is no individual’s fault, it is equally true that we all have a collective duty to work together to find solutions.

“I believe that the cross-sector dialogue initiated at the meeting is a fantastic starting point, and I fully intend on maintaining that dialogue by making these meetings a regular occurrence.”

ENDS