IRVINE’S MP has invited Scotland’s new Justice Minister to his “travellers summit” this week.

Brian Donohoe has extended an invitation to Michael Matheson MSP to attend a meeting regarding apparent difficulties with the travelling community across Mr Donohoe’s Central Ayrshire constituency The so-called “summit” is set to take place at the Labour politician’s constituency office in Irvine on Friday, December 5.

The MP says that senior local authority officers, police, business people and local residents will all be in attendance to discuss grievances with the travelling community.

The travelling community have also been invited to attend the meeting to express their views.

Mr Donohoe, well known to his highly-critical stance on issues involving the travelling community, said: “This is a national problem but we are taking the lead here in Central Ayrshire.

“I am sure Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will be well aware of the difficulties caused by the behaviour of travellers in her home town of Irvine.

“This is an opportunity to show she really does mean business by dispatching her new man to an area she knows well to address an issue she will also know well. “Michael Matheson will be made welcome by a group of people who – by getting round the table – are demonstrating a clear commitment to finding a solution. This can only be achieved by all the interested parties working together.” “I have been campaigning constantly for the authorities to be more proactive in ensuring itinerants dispose of their rubbish, control their animals and avoid damaging the environment. People living or working near their caravans have long complained that the travellers cause noise and nuisance and are responsible for an increase in criminal activity in the area.

“I am hoping that councils will stand up for the rights of law-abiding citizens and not be bound by nationally agreed procedures which are no more than guidelines.

“Ideally Mr Matheson can advise us more fully on the Scottish Government’s latest position on travelling people.” The meeting is set to get underway at 2pm.