The new depute leader of South Ayrshire Council has commended the efforts of staff who have been dealing with the flooding of 126 graves in Ayr Cemetery.
The work to discuss the unprecedented situation was discussed at the council’s cabinet as plans to tackle the issue continue.
Councillor Lee Lyons was keen to express sympathy with the families involved but also the council staff who have been working in a situation they were never trained for – including new council leader Martin Dowey.
He told neighbourhood services official Kenny Dalrymple: “I would like to put on note and commend that yourself and the team are meeting with families.
“It is not something you have signed up to do. It is something you’ve had to do. I would like to note the council’s thanks to your team.
“I know Councillor Dowey has met with literally dozens of families. I am close enough to him to know it is having an effect and takes its toll. He wouldn’t admit that.
“It hasn’t really been in the public domain how much work you are actually doing. People just line up to criticise so I would like to thank you and Cllr Dowey for the work that is not seen.”
Independent councillor Brian Connolly added: “There has been use of the word specialist. The officers involved are not specialists in this area. We need to keep an eye on our staff as this is totally out of their specialisation.”
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