MSP’s claims ‘couldn’t bemore wrong’

Claims by Cumbernauld and Kilsyth MSP Jamie Hepburn that the area has been “snubbed” over increased support for local First Stop Shops are “ludicrous”, according to the council.

Mr Hepburn complained that while North Lanarkshire Council recruited extra staff for the advice centres Airdrie, Bellshill, Motherwell and Wishaw the local outlets had been “overlooked”.

He added that the service they offer is in high demand because of welfare cuts.

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A council spokesman said: “Mr Hepburn could hardly be more wrong. In fact the Cumbernauld First Stop Shop was first to take on additional staff earlier this year, along with Coatbridge.

“The council approved six additional posts at the end of last year. Two were filled quickly by internal candidates with the remainder advertised internally and externally. These posts have also been filled.

“Far from ignoring Cumbernauld and Kilsyth, the council strives to be fair and transparent in all its recruitment processes and to suggest otherwise is ludicrous.”