News item 4th September 2008

Barriers lifted on free parking

At long last, and after an unrelenting campaign by this Party, parking charges at all NHS-operated car parks across Scotland will be abolished with effect from 31st December 2008.

Finally we will see the end to these iniquitous charges at St. John’s Hospital. For already emotionally and financially challenged patients and visitors, and laudably tolerant staff, this cannot come too soon.

But why did it take so long? And why are Health Chiefs being allowed to continue to rob those long-suffering victims of this disgraceful policy until 31st. December? Perhaps their expensive and now redundant barriers at St. John’s can be sold on ebay, with the proceeds going to back to staff and patients?

But what a difference a year makes. Before the election last May, the public faced an increase to £2 at St. John’s with the certainty of further hikes for patients, visitors and staff alike. Today’s decision marks another step towards unelected Health Board Mandarins having to answer to the public and their elected representatives. And not a moment too soon!

We acknowledge the tireless work of the Stop the Downgrade Campaign and their supporters, who, together with the wider public who placed their faith in this party at last year’s election, have played a part in securing this historic decision.

This is a victory for democracy. We look forward to many more.