Deputy Justice Minister Visits Inverness

Issued by The Scottish Executive

Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry will be in Inverness today for a series of local visits, as part of his summer engagement programme.

This will include a visit to the Executive’s Antisocial Behaviour Roadshow which is touring 15 local authorities during the summer and being supported by a national advertising campaign. Ministers from a number of portfolios will support the tour during the next three weeks.

The national tour is aimed at increasing awareness of the guidance and resources on offer to residents affected by antisocial behaviour. 

The main focal point of the roadshow is a truck where specialist staff will be available to use state-of-the-art technology to answer queries from members of the public.

Speaking ahead of the roadshow, Hugh Henry said:

"Left unchecked, antisocial behaviour undermines respect for both individuals and communities. For too long antisocial behaviour has been allowed to bring misery to the lives of the law-abiding majority.

"We promised the people of Scotland there would be action. We meant it. And we have delivered on that promise. Now the Antisocial Behaviour (Scotland) Act has given local agencies a range of powers, supported by substantial resources, to help them tackle the problem and bring respite to those communities in Scotland which suffer from the selfish and unruly actions of a minority of others.

"The Antisocial Behaviour Roadshow is part of our ongoing campaign to raise awareness of the help and support that is available and how to access it. This initiative will give people across Scotland the opportunity to seek advice face-to-face."

The Minister will be available for media interviews and photos. He will be joined by Ms Anne Logie, chair of the Dochcarty Residents Association in Dingwall. The association was formed last year in response to antisocial behaviour problems which resulted in a dispersal order being put in place.

The Minister will also visit the APEX drugs project and Burnett Street Police Station where he will see the police using handheld metal detectors. Finally, Mr Henry will take questions at a public forum being held in the Council Chambers.