Perth FM news - 24 Nov 09

Drug operations lead to fall in prosecutions

Operations targeting drug dealers in Tayside have led to a fall in prosecutions for possession, according to Police. Figures have been released by the Scottish Government showing convictions for drug possession, which has dropped by over 30 percent from last year. Tayside Police have been cracking down on dealers in the area and the number of those convicted has risen by nearly 20 percent. The force has been involved in long-term investigations into organised crime groups, which has affected the supply chain.

Report highlights road fatalities in Perthshire

Today has seen the publication of the Reported Road Casualties Scotland report for 2008. There were 14 fatalities in Perth and Kinross during the year, with a total of 488 injurues of some form on local roads, 41 of which, were children. This is a decrease from previous years, however local politicians feel it is still far too high and have called for action to improve road systems. Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser wants to see investments in the road networks, including in that the proposed duelling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness.

Kinross flood prevention should be priority

Local MP Gordon Banks has called for increased spending to make flood prevention a top priority for Kinross. The area has been badly affected in the past and the threat of flooding is ever present to a substantial area of the town. Mr Banks believes funding from the Scottish Government is needed and that Councils have a lack of resources to deal with flooding in the long term. He has also said he will continue to work closely with residents and businesses in the area.