I must admit I am bitterly disappointed on tonights public meeting. I feel that instead of it being an open Q+A public meeting we were made to sit and be indoctrinated that the available agencies had done everything to make sure everything is ready for next year. Of course Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue were exempt from this - they believe they had an incredible response to this years floods - according to the representative from WALES fire & rescue service, who clearly had no idea what he was talking about (Please note sarcasm in voice) The EA had some interesting ideas, but their trigger points seem to only add fear to whenever it rains? Why have they not mentioned FLAG for their massive input into campaigning for better water management??? Without FLAG, the floods would have gone and everyone would have been scratching their head how to change things?? I think FLAG were mentioned ONCE! This is obscene considering the amount of contact that was exchanged between FLAG and the EA. SEV were referred to once as those in the red T-shirts - On approaching Sue Mountstevens after she had NO idea that there was a structured voluntary group still assisting on the Levels. Avon and Somerset Police ended the meeting by stating their priority would be co-ordinating volunteers and not helping residents! They were also flippant that it WAS going to flood again?!!!!!! There may always be a chance, but Avon & Somerset Police seem to think it is a definite. There was no question and answer session, instead we were invited to individually approach agencies - Im sure they would have been asked the same questions over and over again. These views are entirely my own, and do not represent anyone elses opinions, but I do believe the general consensus is that people are disappointed with the outcome of the meeting. I think acknowledgement of what a key part of voluntary groups have been this year are essential. Both FLAG and Somerset Emergency Volunteers have played large parts in the grand scheme of things, and it is a shame that the authorities were quick to brag about the good points, but pass the blame of any faults to the voluntary sector. A real shame of what could have potentially been a thoroughly insightful evening.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Nov 2014 22:21:43 +0000
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