WITH regards to the recent decision of the Corporate and Efficient Governance Committee of West Dunbartonshire Council to radically change the way that the Elderly Welfare Grant is to be distributed, we at the Good Companions' Club in Dumbarton question why it is necessary to change a system that has worked well for many years.

We recognise that an individual cash payout system has operated in Clydebank, whilst payment has been distributed through clubs in Dumbarton, the Vale of Leven and Duntocher. Questions that I wish to have answered: Why do we have to go along with Clydebank when everything has run smoothly for years?

The decision states that every resident over the age of 60 will be eligible. The 2001 Census indicates over 19,600 are within that age range in West Dunbartonshire.

Who is going to sort out everyone who is eligible for the money? We do not accept that it is the duty of volunteers to ask private details.

How much is all this stupid changeover going to cost the council?

Why doesn't the council leave things they way they are?

Why don't the councillors who support this change try and visit these clubs that are all run by volunteers so that they can see some of the faces of people who maybe only get out once a week for company?

It seems to us that the council seems hell bent on clubs for the elderly closing. So much for care in the Community!

Sheila Cowan Good Companions' Club