I have previously explained the rationale for this decision which has two aims, ie to save taxpayers’ money and allow us to bring fresh talent to our schools. Mr Stewart does not agree with my assessment or the business rationale for this decision, which was clearly set out in the council report. Instead he thinks this is a waste of money and while I accept it is his prerogative to hold this view I do not agree. The Council is under huge pressure to maintain services in the face of significant financial constraint. Despite this the Council, supported by the Scottish Government, has frozen the council tax for eight years helping the finances of all Borders taxpayers. Even had we just applied inflation to the council tax, over an eight year period the cost to the average Borders household would now be around £250 a year more than it currently is. I can’t think of many things that now cost the same as they did in 2007/08! We have frozen this tax despite all the financial challenges, balanced the budget in 2013/14 and 2014/15 and will live within our means again this year.

I note all Mr Stewart says. He is entitled to his view but he is not in office faced with making complex, difficult, sometimes - let’s face it - unpopular decisions over a huge range of services, many of which we are required to deliver by statute and all done in the spotlight of public democratic scrutiny. I also accept that criticism is part and parcel of public life as a councillor, and people are entitled to have their opinions and free to voice them in the local press should they choose to do so. For my part as the Council’s Finance portfolio holder however I won’t stand by and take no action where I see opportunities to enhance education for our young people by bringing fresh talent into the Borders and to save money.

Mr Stewart is also critical of the recent decision taken to terminate the waste contract with NES. The Council has already explained that this decision will be examined by the independently appointed public auditor and their views will be made public in September.

One thing I do agree with Mr Stewart about is that it is indeed the role of the Council to help the people of the Borders. For our part we are now concentrating on moving forward rather than continually looking back.

I am, etc.

Cllr John Mitchell, Depute Leader Scottish Borders Council.