Here's your chance to grill Holyrood candidates on climate action at Falkirk green hustings

Friends of the Earth in Falkirk are organising the event focused in on what the parties will do to deliver on “climate solutions that can improve lives”.

Taking place in Arnotdale House in Dollar Park from 7-9pm on Monday, April 20, people are being urged to attend to call on those standing for Holyrood to explain to the public how they will deliver better bus services, a programme to insulate homes to cut energy bills and credible plans to create secure green jobs. Climate campaigners pointed to the lack of clear opportunities for green jobs contributing to the effects of the closure of Grangemouth oil refinery as an example of political failure to plan for or deliver on the inevitable move away fossil fuels to renewable energy. The event is free to attend but you must register in advance on the charity’s website.

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s head of movement building, Kate Whitaker, said: “This event is a chance for the public in Falkirk to grill potential MSPs on the climate action they will take if elected. Politicians have both the power and the opportunity to deliver better bus services for communities and warmer homes with lower energy bills.

“The next Scottish Government could deliver transformative climate solutions that improve all our lives but they won’t do so unless we demonstrate the public pressure for change.

“People in this area have experienced firsthand the lack of clear transition planning or willingness to stand up to big business from politicians. Instead MSPs should ensure we are taking bold action to build up industries we can rely on in the long term, creating good green jobs, and supporting workers with the skills needed to move into them.

“Anyone who wants to represent this community needs to explain what their plan is for getting people working to build a Scotland that is fit for the future.”