With news that councillors in Scotland are to get a 1% increase in their salaries, I have decided that, for the third time, I will not accept the increase and will instead donate my increase to the Dundee charity, the Dundee Festival Trust.
In both 2009 and 2014, councillors received a pay increase and I felt it was inappropriate to accept this at a time when public services are under financial strain so I donated the money to the Dundee Festival Trust which, through its award scheme, supports community groups across Dundee.
I have now advised the council’s Director of Corporate Services that I’d like to also donate the latest increase to charity.
I will also continue to claim no expenses whatsoever through my work as a city councillor.
I would encourage community groups to apply to the Festival Trust if they are looking for support for any community events they are running.