Glasgow Labour councillor Fiona Higgins has won the right to use several key pieces of evidence in her case with the Standards Commission, having previously been blocked from doing so. The development follows her judicial review after being referred to the commission over a complaint made by a council officer.
Councillor's fight over teacher cuts
Higgins was critical of a plan by Glasgow City Council to cut teacher numbers, which she described as half-baked. The plan was eventually dropped after a backlash from parents, the press and unions, but some in the City Chambers could not forgive her criticisms, according to the Record View column.
The Standards Commission is supposed to enforce basic rules of honesty and transparency among Scotland's 32 local authorities. Instead, it is quickly developing a reputation as a tool relied upon by faceless, unelected council chiefs.
Democratic mandate and transparency
Councillors have a democratic mandate and legitimate right to ask questions on policy decisions involving huge sums of public money. The Commission, not used to being challenged, will now have to improve its approach when imposing its will against elected representatives.
Too many decisions by unelected ruling classes are already made behind closed doors with little scrutiny. More politicians are needed who are brave enough to speak out and end the culture of secrecy.
Organ donation appeal
In a separate item, the column highlights the story of Wee Daniel Cornet, who had kidney failure and required 30 operations. He was Scotland's youngest dialysis patient and survived after a living kidney donation from his auntie Carolyn. He has now started high school, and his mum Louise pays tribute to Carolyn and NHS staff.
Readers are urged to register as organ donors to save lives, with details available via the Organ Donation Scotland site or helpline on 0300 123 2323.
