No one can be in any doubt about the impact that the Coronavirus is having on the country and it is times like these that a degree of National Unity is required. Working together as a community has never been so important.
The changes which we have all endured to our lifestyles, has however, highlighted how less congested our roads have become, particularly near our schools. This undoubtedly will have had significant impact on reducing the quantity of noxious fumes in the air, and thus reducing air pollution. Surely this should prompt Sefton Council into making some roads around schools “idling free zones “ Local Conservatives have campaigned for this for over two years now. We must earnestly strive to protect the health and wellbeing of our young children to insist that the council deliver on this important aspect of public health.
Our local hospitality, catering and service industries have suffered severe losses in the last few months. Some have shown considerable creativity and fortitude in developing ways of serving our community through applying their skills and experience to deliver vital food supplies and readymade meals to those that have been socially isolated or vulnerable. Many have given products to charities and have volunteered their time, energy and experience in practical ways, to offer support. All of us are aware how many of these businesses have grown over the years, their owners devoting their time and money into growing a business that not only provides a service to our area but employment to many of our neighbours. They will need our support as they return to start the rebuilding of their businesses and our communities.
It is vital that our local community supports our local shops and businesses as we strive to win the battle against this Coronavirus. Purchasing local services and products from local companies will be extremely important if we are to rebuild our towns and high streets. Let us hope that our local traders do return to their premises, some may , through this crisis, have reformed or rebranded their product or service, let us all strive to embrace and support their brave initiative and ingenuity, giving them time to build and develop.
Liverpool is famous for being the home of the first person to be made a Public Health Officer, Dr Duncan. In the months and years ahead we must take time to evaluate what we have learnt through living through the outbreak of this pandemic. How can the knowledge we have gained be put to good use?
We have a responsibility to be aware of how our behaviour impacts upon those around us. Those who jog or cycle must have regard for those who walk along the pavements, the young mother with toddlers, the elderly with their walking frame. Refraining from spitting would do much to reduce infection rates and make walking a more pleasurable and safer experience for all.
The role of public toilets must surely become an important issue for all our local councillors. A clean, safe, secure and functioning public toilet facility in every town must now be an essential element of town planning legislation. It cannot be a luxury; it must be a human right. We must be prepared to pay for this vital facility. We have a collective responsibility to treat these facilities with respect, realising that they form a vital part in protecting the health of our family and friends.
