Some 80 civic societies, which operate across various sectors including health, inequality, the environment, food and housing, have written to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to insist people be placed before profit as Scotland makes its recovery from coronavirus, reports Fife Today.
Charities, trade unions, churches and community groups have together proposed five steps for the forthcoming recovery plan and economic stimulus that will enable the building of a fairer, greener and more inclusive society for everyone.
“Our social security system and labour market have failed to protect too many of us from the grip of poverty: particularly women, people with disabilities and people from black and minority ethnic communities. Even before Covid-19 arrived, one in five people in Scotland was living in poverty.” said Poverty Alliance director Peter Kelly.
“As we plan our economic recovery, we must build back better. We must design a more just taxation system, provide affordable and accessible public services, build a labour market that works for everyone, and ensure that everyone has an income that meets their needs.”
“At the heart of Scottish Government’s Recovery Plan there must be social and climate justice ensuring the existing inequalities in society are tackled, with vulnerable and marginalised people in Scotland being protected, valued and part of an inclusive society. Furthermore, International solidarity is paramount to tackling inequalities with an international coronavirus and climate emergency response being recognised and supported.” said Zarina Ahmad, from the Council of Ethnic Minority Voluntary Organisation.
