With the murder of Sir David Amess MP, it’s been a truly shocking week for democracy.
Sir David had a lifelong record of public service, a deep passion for his beliefs, and tragically died doing his public duty, serving his constituents.
On behalf of Dumfries and Galloway Council, we express our deepest condolences to his wife, his five children, and all family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
Social media, the opinions of print and broadcast media, and challenges to legitimate election results have all contributed to an erosion of respect for elected representatives and democratic institutions.
The alternatives to democracy don’t bear thinking about. It really is the only means of government that we’d want. Whatever our political ideology or opinions, we all need to show a little more respect to one another and do our utmost to make democracy work.