North Edinburgh News – Page 749 – The NEN

Friends of the Earth: Starmer energy plan must centre on workers’ just transition demands

CAMPAIGNERS CALL FOR PUBLIC OWNERSHIP

Environmental campaigners have said that Keir Starmer’s speech today must set out how his party will deliver a just transition plan for workers and communities currently dependent on the energy industry for their livelihoods.

In a speech in Edinburgh, the UK opposition leader is expected to give details of Labour’s plan for the energy transition, and confirm its policy of no new oil and gas licences, and opposition to the Cambo and Rosebank projects, in a bid to tackle climate breakdown.

Campaigners are calling on the Labour leader to focus on the blueprint for a just energy transition created by offshore oil and gas workers and backed by key trade unions including:

• Clear accessible pathways out of high carbon jobs, and a training regime for safety not profit
• Investment in domestic manufacturing and assembly of renewables
• Ensuring safety, job security and fair pay across the energy industry .
• Sharing the benefits of our energy system fairly, through public ownership, reorganising the tax system for public good and targeted public investment.

The demands, published by Friends of the Earth Scotland and Platform earlier this year, were developed in consultation with oil and gas workers and backed by over 1000 workers surveyed.

Campaigners highlighted in particular that public ownership must be at the heart of Labour’s just transition strategy, to enable the prioritisation of public good over private profit.

The Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has previously pledged to reach £28bn per year of investment in tackling climate change if Labour leads the next UK Government.

Friends of the Earth Scotland’s head of campaigns Mary Church said: ““Keir Starmer is right to say no to new oil and gas developments to fight climate breakdown. This is an important step in the right direction towards setting an end date for all fossil fuels in our energy system, which is needed to provide certainty for the sector, making it clear that investing in renewables is the only choice for our energy future, and enabling proper workforce planning.

“The Labour leader needs to be clear about the steps his party will take to prioritise supporting affected workers and communities through the transition. With the right planning and investment there is potential for three jobs for every one job at risk from a managed phase out of oil and gas, in line with global climate goals. But this will only happen with government leadership and investment.  

“Oil and gas workers are ready to lead a rapid and fair transition away from fossil fuels, and have a blueprint to create an energy industry that protects workers, communities and the climate. All that is required is the political will to get behind their demands.

Challenging the Labour leader to go further on his commitment to a Great British Energy company, she continued: “With the greedy energy firms having demonstrably failed to deliver on climate action, while raking in profits as people struggle to pay their bills, public ownership clearly must be at the heart of Labour’s just transition strategy.

“Public ownership means that public good objectives like keeping peoples’ homes warm and bills affordable, and reducing environmental harm, can be prioritised over profit.

“The investment promised if Labour forms the next UK Government is a great start and should be used to nationalise or take stakes in strategic energy infrastructure, such as the grid and ports, and to invest in regional publicly owned renewable generation companies.

“But more is needed, and reorganising the tax system for public good will be key to raising the finance needed.”

A written constitution for Scotland?

Right to healthcare, strikes and an adequate standard of living proposed

A written constitution developed by the people in Scotland and their elected Parliament would help a newly independent Scotland take on the challenges of the future, according to First Minister Humza Yousaf.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the latest ‘Building a New Scotland’ prospectus paper detailing the plans, the First Minister said the drafting of a new constitution would enable people in Scotland to shape the new country.

The Scottish Government favours a constitution which would include:

recognition of the NHS in Scotland, giving the right to access a system of health care, available free at the point of need
stronger protections for human rights and equality, including upholding and fulfilling the right to an adequate standard of living as defined by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
the right for workers to take industrial action
a constitutional ban on nuclear weapons being based in Scotland

The fourth paper in the ‘Building a New Scotland’ series will set out more details on the proposals and the evidence that informs them.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Our proposals would provide an opportunity for people in Scotland to shape the newly independent country and create a permanent, modern, written constitution to describe the type of country Scotland would be and how it would be governed.

“Successive UK Governments have taken Scotland in the wrong direction and with independence we would radically shift where power lies and put it back in the hands of the people who live in Scotland.

“The constitution would set out how democracy, rights and equality would be at the heart of everything we do as an independent nation.

It will see the introduction of a constitutional right to heath care available at the point of need, a right to an adequate standard of living as defined by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and protection for workers to take industrial action. And, what we will not see under these proposals, are nuclear weapons on the Clyde. This proposed constitution would ban nuclear weapons from an Independent Scotland.

“With rights in Scotland under threat as never before, because of the actions of the UK Government, and the Scottish Parliament being undermined, independence has never been more urgent or essential.”

Building a New Scotland series

The previous three papers have set out evidence showing independent countries comparable to Scotland are wealthier and fairer than the UK; how Scottish democracy can be renewed with independence; and the macroeconomic framework, including currency arrangements, for an independent Scotland.

Drylaw Telford CC AGM

Drylaw Telford Community Council AGM.

We will hold our AGM on Thursday 29th June at 7pm.

Where: Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre

There will be a short presentation on our greenspace consultation so come along to find out more.

We are also looking for local people to join us and help shape our community!

To find out more, contact us on the details below.

Refreshments will be provided.

We hope to see as many people as possible.

secretary@drylawtelfordcc.org.uk

National Picnic Week: Here’s how to have a paw-some picnic with your pet

With the weather warming up, most of us would rather spend time outdoors – keeping our furry friends involved where safe and possible. For those of us with nosey or curious dogs, however, organising a picnic with a pet can be a slightly daunting prospect.

That’s why, this National Picnic Week (17-25 June 2023), leading vet charity PDSA has shared its top tips for a re-bark-ably peaceful picnic with a dog.

The key, according to PDSA Vet Lynne James, is just a bit of forward planning:

Stay cool

“While it’s tempting to choose a sunny day to take advantage of the warmer weather, be mindful of the temperature,” she explains. “Pets are at risk of life-threatening heatstroke and also sunburn, so avoid going out when it’s warm, and always choose a spot with plenty of shade. You can also bring a pop-up sun shelter to keep them protected.

“Make sure your pet has access to plenty of clean, fresh water while you’re out to keep them hydrated. Collapsible bowls are a great space saving item to take with you when you’re out and about – including at picnics.

“There are also plenty of tools you can use to keep your pet cool, including cooling collars, mats for them to lie on, and toys. But remember, if in doubt, don’t go out – your dog will be cooler and safer staying at home.

“If you are worried about the weather, consider having a garden picnic instead. Your dog will be able to go inside if they get too warm, and you don’t have to worry about car travel or walking them to a picnic destination.”

Keep your food safe

“Dogs are curious by nature and can often be food-motivated– so it’s only natural that they should want to investigate your food (and perhaps even take a bite or two). Yet some human foods are toxic or dangerous for dogs, and you wouldn’t want your pet eating your entire lunch!

“First, think about what you’ll be taking the food in. A basket or bag that can be closed and secured are ideal to keep a potential food thief at bay. You can also try zip bags and lunchboxes.

“Second, keep your dog busy while you’re eating. They’re likely to be intrigued by your own food, so why not bring them a snack to distract them? You can even make your own cooling treats at home.

“Finally, be mindful of the food you’ll be bringing. Accidents do happen, and dogs can be quick to jump on food that is dropped on the floor. That’s why we always recommend avoiding bringing foods that are harmful to dogs altogether – including chocolates, grapes, food on skewers, and meat on the bone.”

Leave room for playtime

“If the weather is cool enough to play, factor in some time for this before you settle to eat. This way, your dog can burn off any extra energy and which will help them to be more relaxed when it’s time for you to eat.

“Bringing toys to keep your pets entertained is always a great idea, and tools such as puzzle feeders are a great way to keep your dog engaged away from your snacks.”

Beware of natural hazards

“Watch out for insect or bee stings, which are very common over the spring and summer season. These can be treated at home, providing they’re not severe and haven’t triggered an allergic reaction.

“Common signs of an allergic reaction include rapid swelling – often of the lips, eyes, ears and face – vomiting or diarrhoea, as well as breathing difficulties. Rarely, it could also cause your pet to collapse or faint.

“If the swelling is located around your pet’s face, neck or throat, or if they have difficulties breathing, call your vet immediately and take your pet there, keeping them as cool as possible.”

Make sure your dog is on a lead

“You likely won’t be the only picnickers out and about, so make sure everyone can enjoy their day by keeping your dog on a lead. This will ensure your dog isn’t tempted by other people’s lunch! You could use a sturdy ground tether in a shady spot to attach their lead to.”

For more advice on how to care for your pet over the summer, visit: pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/caring-for-your-pet-in-the-summer

For more pet care advice visit pdsa.org.uk

Friday night frolics at Musselburgh Racecourse

Scotland’s summer weather is expected to boost the attendance at Musselburgh’s popular Friday night meeting on 23 June.

The Construction & Property Recruitment Friday 90’s Race Night kickstarts the weekend for many racegoers who flock to the East Lothian track.

And with its 90’s theme and post racing After Party hosted by Forth One’s leading presenter Boogie in the Morning, it’s a big draw for racing fans keen to let their hair down and make the most of the summer sun.

The 5-star racing venue is making it easier for guests to get to and from Edinburgh city centre with ticketed bus services, while those taking the train can make use of a courtesy bus service from Wallyford and Newcraighall stations.

To further whet the appetite, some of Scotland’s leading street food vendors are on-site, including Slum Dog, Dog n Bon and Bonnie Burrito, while the racecourse’s own Pinkies Deli offers dishes which appeal to all.

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Aisling Johnston, said: “With seven thrilling Flat races, followed by an exciting 90’s After Party, where else is better to make the most of these fantastic summer evenings we’ve been enjoying.

“Dressing up is not essential but we hope many will throw on their favourite 90’s outfit and if race goers are too young to have experienced the 90’s first time around, now is their chance to see what all the fuss was about.”

Racegoers who book tickets before 22 June will save £2 per person on the £25 admission fee.

Gates open at 4pm on 23 June, the first race is off at 5.30pm and the last race is scheduled for 9pm, with the After Party lasting approximately one hour after the final race.

As with all Musselburgh race meetings, children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

For more information and to book tickets please visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Taste Italian Summer nights at Divino in June

Some lovely events happening at Edinburgh’s award-winning restaurant Divino this month, designed to soak in the summer sun, all in a space that will make guests feel as if they’ve left Scotland behind for an evening on the Italian coast.

Divino Summer Garden Party

25th June, 5pm, £25

Our new terraza is the perfect spot to come enjoy the sunshine over some wine and food, and we’re showcasing this new space with a summer garden party!

Manager James and sommelier Davide will explore the best Italian wines to enjoy whilst soaking up the sunshine, guiding you through the grapes, regions and styles.

A Divino Spritz to welcome you and start the party, followed by some crisp whites, juicy rosés, and elegant sparkling wines. 5 wines to taste, with some matching summer nibbles.

A celebration of Campania: Regional Menu Night

29^th June – all evening; 3 courses for £39, matched wines additional £26

With its 3000+ years history, over 10 UNESCO Sites, an outstanding Coast line figuring towns like Amalfi and Sorrento and one of the World’s most amazing volcano, il Vesuvio, Campania has a lot to show off.

Our Head Chef Andrea will guide you through the “500 Domes” that makes Naples one of the most exciting cities to visit, bringing authentic and original flavours that will make you feel like you’re basking on the beaches of Capri.

All of the above events can be booked here.

Sixty artists open their doors for summer festival in Fife’s “Robinson Crusoe” village of Lower Largo

SIXTY artists are gearing up to open their studios to the public as Largo Arts Week returns for its fourth year in the Fife village of Lower Largo and surrounding communities.

Running from Saturday, July 15 – Sunday, July 23, the festival will feature an array of arts and crafts by artists, sculptors and makers exhibiting in 37 open studios in the villages of Lower Largo, Upper Largo and Lundin Links.

Famous as the birthplace of Alexander Selkirk, the man who inspired the story of Robinson Crusoe, Lower Largo has in recent years become a creative hub for a range of artists inspired by its coast and countryside.

As well as the open studios, music and food will feature strongly in the Arts Week with free evening gigs at local hotels and food trucks offering gourmet street food.

Community café and venue The Aurrie in Lower Largo is also staging a week-long programme including the return of comedian and broadcaster Fred McAulay and popular children’s musical group, Artie’s Singing Kettle.

One of the prominent local artists opening his studio to the public is sculptor Alan Faulds (above), whose eclectic structures are dotted throughout Lower Largo, including the “Largo Obelisk” atop the village’s former red telephone box.

Largo Arts Week director Dougi McMillan said: “Over the last four years, the festival has gone from strength to strength, and we are delighted that 60 artists will be exhibiting their work this year, demonstrating the depth of creativity in the community.

“With bands playing live every night in local hotels and food trucks overlooking the beach at Largo Bay, we’re looking forward to a real summer celebration and carnival atmosphere.”

Free evening entertainment will be offered by The Upper Largo Hotel and Crusoe Hotel featuring popular Fife bands Passing Sages, Best Dressed Blues Band, Rewind and Astral Suns along with new faces including Sleekit and many more.

The festival closes with a return of the Omar Afif and the Gnawa Trance Fusion band (above) whose blend of Moroccan folk, jazz and blues will sound out in an open-air gig against the backdrop of the historic Largo pier.

Full details of the Largo Arts Week programme can be accessed on the festival’s website – www.largoartsweek.com

Strachan House says: ‘Don’t worry, beer happy’!

You better beer-lieve that residents at Strachan House care home in Edinburgh, were more than hoppy to raise a glass, and sample some top craft ales, bitters and lagers, in celebration of National Beer Day on Thursday (15 June)!

Staff at Strachan House set up a bar for a real pub experience and brought in a range of brew-tiful world ales for residents to sample. Residents and their visitors enjoyed a beer tasting in the garden as well as enjoying a fun game of beer pong with a difference.

Gordon Philp, General Manager at the home, said: “We love socialising and celebrating all kind of events, it is wonderful to be able to invite family and friends into our garden to join in events again.

“National Beer Day is a day that the residents really enjoy, who doesn’t love a cold beer on a hot summer’s day!”

David Leseuer, a resident at Strachan House, commented: “I didn’t realise we had so many lovely ales, it was fantastic to be able to enjoy a cold beer in the garden with my friends and family – you can’t really beat that now, can you?”

Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.

Strachan House is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides nursing care, residential care, respite care.

Dobbies’ Edinburgh and Lothian stores search for best local amateur gardeners

Entries live for Not Your Average Gardener

Dobbies’ Edinburgh and Lothian stores are inviting amateur gardeners, of all ages and backgrounds from across the region, to enter its annual Not Your Average Gardener Awards.

Set to celebrate novice gardeners and enthusiasts alike, both Stockbridge little dobbies and Edinburgh Dobbies stores are calling in the help of a robust panel of horticultural and wildlife experts to crown four winners.

With four new categories, judges will be looking for a variety of gardeners of all abilities to put themselves, or a loved one, forward to be in with the chance of scooping Dobbies’ annual gardening prize.

Dobbies’ Senior Houseplant Buyer and recently appointed Royal Horticultural Society Chair of Assessors, Claire Bishop, will join Dobbies’ Horticultural Director and seasoned judge, Marcus Eyles, to crown the new Creative Indoor Gardener and Little Eco Gardener categories.

Claire said: “It’s a real honour to be part of the Not Your Average Gardener Awards for its fourth year and I can’t wait to see the talent from our houseplant enthusiasts across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

“The awards have been designed with full inclusivity in mind, so we’re looking for people of all ages and skill levels to get in touch and tell us about their vibrant green space that they have a real passion for.”

RePollinate, a Scottish-based charity that conserves and enhances the UK’s threatened pollinators through education, scientific research and the creation of pollinator friendly habitats, will judge the Wildlife Friendly Garden category.

Leigh Biagi, Project Coordinator at RePollinate, is thrilled to be partnering with Dobbies on the judging panel. She said: “We are so delighted to be asked to judge the Wildlife Friendly Gardener category of the awards.

“At RePollinate we are passionate about doing all we can to support nature in our green spaces, no matter how big or small that space may be, and we know that this passion is shared by many gardeners. It will be exciting to see the entries and discover what people are doing to support sustainability and welcome nature into their gardens.”

Social media gardening expert, Michael Griffiths, aka The Mediterranean Gardener, joins the panel to judge the Plant to Plate Gardener category. He said: “I’m delighted to be part of this year’s Not Your Average Gardener Awards, and can’t wait to see all the fantastic entries from gardeners across Edinburgh and the Lothians. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the creativity and commitment of amateur gardeners, who invest their time and skill into making wonderful outside spaces with a grow your own focus.”

There’s a prize pot of £4,000 to help successful applicants take their award-winning garden to the next level, each taking home a £1,000 giftcard to spend in their nearest Dobbies or little dobbies. Team members will be on hand to help winners select the best sustainable products and plants for their space.

Entries close on Friday 30 June and winners will be announced early August.

To find out more about how you can get involved and to take part, visit Not your average gardener award winners | Dobbies Garden Centres.

Celebrating Father’s Day with a story of Scottish heritage and connection

Father and daughter performers share their bond at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Ahead of Father’s Day, father and daughter duo Andrew and Lauren McLellan from New Zealand reflect on their special time spent together performing at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

As the Tattoo prepares to bring Stories to the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade this coming August, Andrew and Lauren’s story is a reminder of what the Tattoo represents. Bursting with talented performers like the family duo, the Tattoo brings families, friends, and audiences together to share in music, heritage and spectacle which is why the Show remains a beloved moment in the world’s calendar and every Show a must-see.

The pair live in the city of Tauranga on the North Island of New Zealand after relocating from Dunedin on the South Island, a city which shares heritage and culture with Edinburgh, even being classified as an official ‘sister-city’ of its Scottish counterpart.

The synergy of Scottish traditions and music has been a big part of both father and daughter’s lives, ultimately leading to the chance for them both to perform at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Lauren as a Side Drummer and Andrew as Drum Major with the Tattoo Pipes and Drums.

Retaining a sense of Scotland in his daughters’ lives was essential to Andrew, whose family moved from Scotland to New Zealand in the 1920s. Speaking about his Scottish heritage, Andrew said: “Despite my mother’s parents and her siblings being born in the Shotts and Bathgate area of Scotland and moving to New Zealand in the late 1920s, we weren’t brought up with any Scottish knowledge or heritage. Musically my mother’s family were very talented and involved in brass bands and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. So, it was important, to me, for my children to participate in their Scottish heritage.”

Andrew’s time performing with the Tattoo Pipes and Drums allowed him to fulfil a lifelong dream: “Since taking on the role of Drum Major I never dreamt of leading the Massed Pipes and Drums down Castlehill at all but getting that opportunity twice was absolutely thrilling! The whole experience of marching out across the drawbridge or marching off and hearing the roar and applause of 8,800 or so spectators, over the top of the massed pipes and drums, is intoxicating.”

Lauren, who will return to the Tattoo again this year, said. “I have performed twice at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo now, both times as a snare drummer, my first time in 2019, and last year being a part of the Tattoo Pipes and Drums.”

Jason Barrett, Chief Operating Officer of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The Tattoo has always excelled at bringing families and friends together, and this year’s Show Stories is no exception.

“We are so fortunate to have family performers like Andrew and Lauren, along with such a gifted cast and crew to make Stories an unforgettable show. Families have played a special and memorable role throughout the Tattoo’s rich 73-year history. The family connection within the ranks of our performers continues to be a testament to how we bring people together through shared experiences, shared stories, and special memories.

“This August on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, our performers will get the opportunity to showcase their own unique stories and experiences from around the world that will leave audiences with lasting memories.”

Stories will run from 4-26 August 2023, featuring the military at the heart of the showcase. Audiences can expect performers from Norway, The United States, Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Switzerland, alongside homegrown acts from across the UK and Ireland. As ever, the military will play a prominent role in the Show, with the Royal Air Force at the forefront as this year’s lead service.

These talented international acts will be accompanied by the magnificent sounds of the Massed Pipes and Drums filling up the Esplanade, alongside performances from the incredibly talented Tattoo Pipes and Drums and Tattoo Dancers.

To purchase tickets for the summer’s Show, visit edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or call 0131 225 1188.