| Topic: | Response to Cllr Lynch | |
| Posted by: | R Barry | |
| Date/Time: | 30/01/11 20:39:00 |
| 'In the 25 years that I have been in local politics, an asymmetry in dialogue has developed. In exchanges such as these Councillors and Council staff are expected to just sit and take repeated accusations of incompetence, dishonesty and, for those who cannot think of an original epithet, "being patronising." Any glimmer of assertiveness by Councillors and Council staff gives rise to squeals of unconvincing rage.' Or when there is a 9:1 opposition to something and you are trying to explain why we do want it! 'I am struggling with the question of whether I really want the votes of people who expect me to unthinkingly oppress minorities at their bidding.' Because you are there to protect their rights to do what.. not walk? I have no idea help me out here. What is the implicit right that you are protecting?? 'It even takes a bit of courage to stand up to the majority view on this web-site, especially on an issue like this, where one is easily identified by strong minded neighbours.' This smacks of a future excuse - sorry but that is the case. I can see it now the mass of silent support who would not make public their views!! 'I live in a street with no parking problem except for the occasional tourist fortnight. The proposed eastern CPZ would change all this and tip a lot of commuter parking into my street. If the CPZ were extended to my street it would be a very great nuisance and another expense hard for me, a pensioner, to afford. Nevertheless, I believe that on street parking is a resource we all must share, and where neighbours have problems my first response should not be rush to preserve my own privileges, but to see if I can help. We do this with schools, libraries and every other Council service. If I can endure a bit of hassle to make the lives of others bearable, then maybe I should. I say maybe, (people who are certain I am part of some nefarious plot will discount that) and I mean maybe. Good arguments for preserving privileges instead of helping our neighbours may exist. My mind is open to them. Please tell me what they are.' - Left in full to avoid misrepresentation. 'If I can endure a bit of hassle to make the lives of others bearable, ' I agree - the question is one of balance. What is a bit of hassle? Who's life is UNBEARABLE? Are we really suggesting that the parking issues are making peoples lives unbearable? Will the hassle generate a more bearable life? I think that part of the issue is the we know best and you are just being selfish not to pay for a permit. I make my position clear - Most of the areas affected can well afford the permits as can I. My issue is that the area will change with the installation of the lines and signs and machines etc. I believe that there will not be change to the areas of concern and then we will be left with the CPZ and the problems that already existed. The problems also seem to be unclear - is it the available parking or the road rage or the race track antics? |