Nicola Sturgeon’s constituents plagued by rats and mice as they claim ex-First Minister ignoring their pleas for help
RAGING residents in Nicola Sturgeon’s constituency are at the “end of their tether” as their bins haven’t been lifted for a month.
Locals say rats and mice are targeting rubbish bags piled high in back courts in Govanhill, Glasgow.
But they claim the ex-First Minister hasn’t responded to their pleas for help.
The last uplift for household waste bins in the area’s Allison Street was December 13.
One local claimed she tried to stop the former SNP leader in the street to raise concerns but was brushed off.
And Joyce Brown, 72, below, admitted she has “given up” trying to resolve the issue.
The retired retail worker, who has lived in Govanhill for more than 40 years, said: “Bin lorries have only been here three times in two months.
“I stopped Nicola Sturgeon in the street a while back about it but she told me she doesn’t like to be confronted.
“I’ve contacted her several times since but I haven’t even had a response from her secretary.”
Joyce’s partner, Ian Spiers, 64, said: “We’re trying to keep the place clean but we’re all getting to the end of our tether.
“Funnily enough, when Nicola Sturgeon holds any events here, the place is tidied right up.”
Retired healthcare worker Margaret Sheridan, 60, said: “I’ve got a 14-week-old puppy and I’m too scared to let him out the back because the rats are probably bigger than he is.”
Stewart Nicol, 63, does his bit by picking the overflowing litter up off the street.
He said: “I resent paying my council tax when I’m the guy who cleans about here.”
Councillor Soryia Siddique said: “All cleansing enquiries received are being raised with Glasgow City Council.
“My inbox has been busy with cleansing complaints. The department appears to be dealing with backlogs.
“Budget pressures are also impacting services. Scottish Government must provide Glasgow City Council with adequate funding to provide vital services. The SNP – Green administration must stand up for Glasgow”.
Last year locals in Govanhill told The Scottish Sun their neighbourhood had been left to rot — with rogue van owners using it as a waste ground and rats being allowed to prosper.
A council spokesman said: “There are delays to household bin collections across the city following the festive holidays. We’re working hard to ensure they return to their normal schedule as soon as possible.”
Glasgow Southside MSP Ms Sturgeon’s office was asked for comment.