CARRICK, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP candidate Jeane Freeman has slammed Tory and Labour for 'playing politics with South Ayrshire Communities'.

The SNP candidate explained: "Tory and Labour Councillors are playing political games that are damaging communities across south Ayrshire.

"They are cutting library services and imposing ridiculous charges on long-standing community galas without consultation and for no other reason that to score political points.

"In their budget Tory and Labour South Ayrshire Councillors met behind closed doors and agreed to close libraries in Coylton, Dailly and Dundonald from March 31.

"As well as, impose charges on Community Gala organisers of up to £2000, impose new energy charges on Community Associations using community and village halls ranging from £700 to £1880 a quarter.

"There has been no consultation with local groups, trade unions or other Councillors.

"The three library closures save £47,263 over 2 years – that’s less than £8000 each a year.

"£8000 to be saved when the Council is sitting with unallocated reserves of £14.5 million.

"Millions of pounds sitting unused, when local people have to travel to use library services – including computers for job search - at £5 a time in bus fares.

"£14.5 million not used when local groups are priced out of using local facilities and jobs are lost.

"Gala Day charges in Coylton, Ballantrae, Maidens and elsewhere that threaten the continued existence of these community events.

"Gala Days bring in visitors to local communities and provide local businesses, charities and local good causes with much needed support.

"Tories and Labour in South Ayrshire are playing political games with our communities and your SNP will oppose them every step of the way.

"They justify holding on to millions while cutting important local services by saying it’s the fault of the Scottish government.

"Just look next door at East Ayrshire Council. An SNP led council that has not cut services but keeps on building new homes, refurbishing schools and supporting local community groups and services.

"Cutting libraries and imposing charges on communities in South Ayrshire are political decisions by Tories and Labour – who care more about their next election than about you or your community.

"Your SNP will oppose these cuts and unfair charges, standing up for you."