No need for referendum (Robert Wishart)
Shetland Charitable Trust’s agenda last Wednesday had one item: “For decision. Future Governance of Shetland Charitable Trust. Report enclosed.”
Instead of proceeding with this the chairman allowed the convener to take the mickey with what he probably thinks was a clever trick – a delaying tactic that scuppered the business at hand.
The trust must bring forward reforms to satisfy the charities regulator. It had asked for comments from the public which, we were told, would be considered along with its own – flawed – proposals.
This is not an issue which requires a test of public opinion. It is one which requires the application of good sense and reason to weigh the merits of different views on the trust’s future – and for trustees to make a decision and stick to it.
Ten councillors fell for the demoted convener’s scheme to ask the public if it wishes to support an “option” they have been told is not an option. It shows utter contempt for the trust’s staff and legal advisers, the charities regulator and the people in whose name they sit on both council and trust.
Robert Wishart
Cairnfield,
South Hillhead,
Lerwick.
Ted Knight
Should Shetland Charitable Trust not bring forward speedy reforms, the charities regulator will, I hear on the grapevine, find a way to do it for them – with or without an input from “10” serpentine councillors.
These people have form for their silly “insider” games – perhaps it’s time for the voters to buttonhole them, in public, and give them an appropriate dressing down.