The ragwort problem makes our efforts futile
I AM amazed at the local council and their lack of attention over the years to the invasion of groundsel, in and around Inverness.
If we as farmers or crofters have this poisonous plant on our land, we are required by law to take action to try to remove it. We would be visited by the local department officer and threatened with a penalty or fine.
Each part of the ragwort plant is highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested by a dog. It is also very toxic to horses, cattle and sheep.
We strive on our farm, as do most responsible farmers, to eradicate ragwort, but it is not surprising that this practice is completely futile given the acres of stuff along the distribution route and among all the houses and on the roadsides through Inverness. .
The general public is often misled into thinking it poses no risk and is a wildflower – perhaps if they knew the risks to themselves and their animals, their opinions would no doubt change.
Normally, I wouldn’t start proclaiming in our local newspaper, but surely the officials have to do something about this problem?
Christine Smith
Farr
Which River Ness “work” do you prefer?
The chainsaw Labrador dog sculpture placed in protest near the controversial Gathering Place by some members of the Inverness Angling Club may be removed by the Highland Council.
“The dog wins hands (legs?) on three points. Visually, it’s much nicer. It is infinitely more profitable. And finally, it shows how simply and directly the shoreline can be improved without imposing unwanted and deeply unpopular horror on Inverness and dealing the biggest blow to the credibility of the local council in living memory. –Charles Bannerman, Inverness
“The Labrador carving is an asset to the riverside and is real art compared to the so-called art of Highland Council’s Gathering Place, which in no way improves anything on our riverside.
“It’s the biggest waste of money ever and money that could have been put to much better use.
“The council should bow their heads in shame – they’re looking very stylish to go ahead with this monstrosity.” –Brian Leitch, Inverness
“I totally support this gesture (rude or not) [installation of protest do sculpture]. Highland Council hopes over the controversy surrounding the installation of this uninspiring concrete block [Gathering Place] will go out but not and this canine sculpture proves it. – Dancy Joan, Inverness
“This beautiful sculpture reminds me of my dog who truly lived up to his Gaelic name – Dìleas – faithful.” –Laura Martin, Troon
“The idea of placing the Labrador near the ugly wall is a great and elegant way to draw people’s attention to the madness of this pointless waste of money.
“It’s bad enough to build this structure in an unspoiled and beautiful part of the Ness Islands, but wasting £800,000 of council taxpayers’ money on this when people will struggle to pay council tax is criminal incompetence.” –Alan Roberts, Dingwall
“It all boils down to what makes the most sense and brings joy to people. A dog symbolizes unconditional love, kindness and loyalty. That really says it all!” –Terri MacDonald, Inverness
“Now and in years to come, the catwalk will be seen as a viewpoint and has nothing to do with art.
“The Labrador, however, is definitely a work of art.” – May McIntosh, Alltsaigh
“The sculpture in Labrador is much more reflective of the region and the users of the islands than the dreadful Gathering Place, which disturbs visitors.
“Let’s hope the council accepts the new sculpture.” – Marjory Shane, Inverness
“The dog sculpture is lovely, just a shame it’s in the same neighborhood as this concrete monstrosity.” – Kathleen Main, Inverness
“The only thing the council should consider removing is the visual pollution that is the gathering place.
“The public didn’t want it but they made the incredulous decision to waste money on it and not listen to public opinion.
“The dog sculpture is brilliant and should stay.
“There will be an uproar if the council decides to remove this instead.” – Sharon Milsum, Inverness
Travelers at the new camp in town
A GROUP of travelers are still at an unauthorized camp in Culloden.
“Come on, let’s get this sorted and get this sorted out before more come.”
“I totally respect their culture and their beliefs, but let’s talk about the environment.
“I hasten to add that it’s not all travelers but some leave so much rubbish behind and there is the lack of toilets.
“We all need a place to live and I’m sure there are plenty of places to settle, but come on, just by the side of the road with no facilities – shocking.
“I’m sure I’d be moved quickly if I parked somewhere for a while.
“I’m tired of people belittling their culture in a time when we hear so much about inclusion; communicate with them.
“Asking them to have portable toilets and leave no litter isn’t rocket science, but are the powers that be afraid of them?
“Respect each other and communicate.” – Ellen, Inverness
” What is the problem exactly ? Travelers exist.
“They will try to find places to settle. People clearly don’t want them to exist and that’s not healthy.
“Leave them alone.” –Ryan McGuinness, Dingwall