Paul Faragher, Shadow Chairman for the Environment has hit out at the Lab / Lib Coalition decision to introduce textile recycling amid grave concerns from the charity shops in the Town, of the impact it will have on them.
Speaking after Tuesday’s Environment Panel meeting, Paul said, “As a general rule, I’d always support a new recycling initiative in Brentwood. However, in this case I believe the wrong decision has been made. Unlike the Chairman and those running the Council, I have done my homework on this and contacted the charity shops in the Borough to gauge their views. With just one exception, all of the feedback I had was negative as they are concerned it will impact on donations and therefore, their ability to raise money and support good causes.”
The idea of doorstep textile recycling was introduced at the last meeting and Conservatives put forward their concerns then.
Paul added, “Charities in Brentwood do an outstanding job for our community. As a Council, we should be supporting them, not introducing policies that will work against them.”
Bizarrely, the recommendation that was approved agreed to introduce the collections, only to then say the views of the charity shops would be sought.
“This is clearly back to front,” said Paul. “They should have made an effort to speak to the charities ahead of the item coming forward for a vote, which was actually agreed at our last meeting. Not only is this the wrong decision but it has been done in a muddled way, showing yet again poor leadership and a total lack of joined up thinking. The Administration needs to get a grip. How can they consult on something after a decision has been made? It makes no sense.”
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Contact:
Paul Faragher - Paul.Faragher@brentwood.gov.uk
07918 777191