Good morning,
Saving RBS Giffnock is about far more than saving a bank. We are trying to save a cornerstone of our community. We have lost too many so far.
However, no one can suggest that we as a community are resistant to change. We embrace it. That is why Giffnock has evolved and is the modern, vibrant place it is today. But we also stand up for the traditional things that are dear to us. We as a community have successfully campaigned to save Giffnock Train Station, Huntly Park and Giffnock Library. If we did not campaign, I don't think we would have any of them now.
RBS Giffnock is a trickier campaign, as it is part of a PLC. And PLCs seek to please shareholders, not residents. This is why we must do two things: 1. Win the economic argument; and 2. Be pragmatic.
RBS Giffnock is busy. It could be busier still if the RBS considered diversifying the use of the premises. Perhaps it could offer bespoke financial education to local people, schools, businesses and charities. It could become a hub of financial excellence. We are not saying that RBS should run at a loss; we are saying that RBS executives should visit us in Giffnock and talk about what can be done in partnership with the community.
In the meantime, I am hopeful that we can obtain 600 signatures by tomorrow night. If you have not signed the petition yet, please consider doing so. And, as ever, please share on social media. If you manage to persuade local Facebook group administrators to publish it, all the better. Predictably, some are actively working against our efforts, with silly attempts to split support and mock community empowerment. That comes with the territory, I am afraid.
Thank you to all who have joined us and let's keep going.
Best wishes,
Allan