Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson pushed SNP Rural Affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon at a recent question time to ask how the SNP Government could support Dumfries and Galloway Council to give funding to employ countryside rangers.
He cited recent incidents of dirty camping, litter dropping and fly-tipping, which have spoiled many beauty spots and the wider countryside in Galloway, with greater deterrents needed.
Mr Carson has welcomed the Minister’s commitment to tackling the issues blighting the countryside, and says he will continue his campaign to ensure that his constituents feel protected from any increases in anti-social behaviour.
He said: “Some of the scenes we have seen in our rural communities and beauty spots have been absolutely shameful and tougher and greater action needs to be taken.
“I believe that having countryside rangers in position will act not only as a good deterrent, but also as a welcome guide of information for visitors to the area in how they can protect the countryside.
“Fly-tipping, wild camping and litter dropping are just some of the ways our countryside have been blighted recently, especially with a rise in holidays at home this year.
“I will be continuing to lobby for local authorities to be given the funding necessary in order to employ more countryside rangers in our wonderful countryside.”
