Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan yesterday [Monday 29 May] hosted a roundtable discussion on antisocial behaviour issues around Stornoway.
The islands MSP has been receiving a range of complaints from constituents in Stornoway, with reports of harassment, intimidation, and criminal damage by a small number of young people.
The meeting brought together representatives from Police Scotland, Social Work, the Nicolson Institute, HHP, the Education and Children's Services Department, local councillors, and residents.
Alasdair Allan MSP commented:
“This meeting was an opportunity to discuss how we can work more collaboratively to tackle antisocial behaviour around Stornoway. I would like to thank everyone who attended.
“The overwhelming majority of young people in Lewis are law abiding, and youth crime is only a small proportion of crime overall. However, antisocial behaviour, even by a very small number of people, can make residents’ lives a misery and there is broad agreement there has been a marked increase over the past two years. There are a range of factors behind this, but we need to ensure our approach in tackling it is as joined up as possible.
“It was encouraging to hear about the joint work already underway and the fact this will be an area of renewed focus for all organisations involved. I would continue to urge members of the public to report any incidents of antisocial behaviour to Police Scotland by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”