ESCC Lib Dems Challenge Tory Funding Cuts

8.44.22pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 22nd Feb 2006

"East Sussex County Council's ruling Tories plan to hit the most vulnerable of our residents, by closing three day care centres in Rye, Eastbourne, and Peacehaven. In addition they intend to cut funding to voluntary groups, which work hard to support people in their own homes, those with special needs, and those unable to speak for themselves", said Lib Dem leader Cllr. David Rogers (Newhaven & Ouse Valley West) today.

"Liberal Democrats on East Sussex County Council reject these brutal cuts, which hit yet again those most in need and least able to fight for themselves. So much for David Cameron's new breed of Conservatives", he continued. "They look just like the same old Tories to me!"

At today's Council Budget Meeting, the Lib Dems (who are the main opposition group) will propose a clear alternative budget, full details of which are shown below. The Lib Dem plans allocate almost £2million extra to adult social care. This would stop the day care closures, and save the funding for carers and voluntary groups.

"All this can be achieved for just £2.63 extra on Band D council tax, less than a penny a day" said Cllr. Rogers. "Our plans remain within the government's guideline figure of 5%, so there is no risk of capping. In fact, Cllr. Peter Jones - the Tory leader - voted for a 4.98% rise last week at the Sussex Police Authority, so we hope he will do so again today, to save social care in East Sussex."

"If the Tory ruling group reject these carefully-costed proposals, they will yet again reveal the hollowness of their claims to look after the people of East Sussex, and their indifference to those most in need."