Labour MSP reveals shocking figures

Statistics published by the Scottish Government last week have revealed the extent of the cost of living crisis facing the people of the Western Isles with many thousands seeking help with council tax exemptions.

Scottish Government figures have revealed as of last November almost half a million Scots were receiving council tax exemption due to financial pressures.

In Na h-Eileanan Siar, as many as 2,120 have been forced to apply for council tax exemption.

Statistics revealed that by December 2020, a total of 1,207 people had applied for debt moratoria under emergency measures brought forward by Scottish Labour and contained in the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020.

On top of the pressures of council tax and personal debt, millions of Scots are set to be hit by inflation-busting water prices – despite Scottish Water and its subsidiaries holding reserves of over half a billion pounds.

Rhoda Grant is challenging the SNP to take action to support thousands of Scottish families facing a cost of living crisis due to collapsing earnings and spiralling costs.

Commenting on the situation, she said: “The economic shockwaves of this pandemic have rocked families and households in Na h-Eileanan Siar, with many thousands facing falling earnings and rising costs.

“Make no mistake, local people are facing a crisis.

“It is unacceptable that residents have been forced to apply for council tax exemption.

“The SNP has been too slow to act to support businesses, protect workers and protect family finances – at the coming budget, Scottish Labour will fight for a fair economic recovery for all that puts the people of Scotland first.

“It’s time to put households and families across Na h-Eileanan Siar at the heart of our economic recovery.”