New Year

A New Year, new opportunities for Scotland, a new look at the world.

2002 will be the hundredth anniversary of Enrico Caruso's first record. Will we also see a follow-up CD from local teenagers Empathy who sang so movingly of the plight of our fishermen in 2001?

2002 will be the hundredth anniversary of Cuba's independence. They have one of the best health services in the world. Will 2002 be the year when the New Labour-Liberal Democrat Executive finally starts to move our health service forward?

For our area 2001 was more interesting than we wanted. Farming suffered through foot and mouth. Fishing became even more challenging. Uncertainty still hangs over the Prison. And the long review of our local health service continues. Job losses continue.

And yet we should go into 2002 with optimism and a determination that we shall take control.

The argument for the Prison is won. Now we need government commitment. RAF Buchan wins new business. Now we need support to win more elsewhere.

I'm enjoying my new role as MSP. And looking forward to selling our area when Parliament comes to Aberdeen in May.

Let's all work together and deliver a happy and prosperous 2002.