Born in 1946 and brought up in Cupar, Fife, I was educated at the local school - Since taking our place in government this May the SNP has already made its distinctive mark on Scottish politics. With the summer recess now upon us, as we look back over the last few weeks we can appreciate the many achievements secured thus far by the new SNP government. In our short time in power we have courageously delivered on our manifesto commitments despite the odds sometimes looking unfavourable. Saving the Accident and Emergency Units of the Ayr and Monklands Hospitals is but one example where the SNP remained determined to deliver on its promises in spite of the apparent obstacles.
To mention only a few successes, the SNP has lowered class sizes, abolished bridge tolls on the Forth and Tay Road Bridges and indeed the structures are now in place to replace the current unfair council tax with a more just local income tax. However at every turn the government has acted in a responsible manner and has at no point used its authority to force legislation through parliament. It is therefore living up to its commitment to bring a new style of consensual, cooperative and effective governance to Scotland and fulfilling its duty to serve the interests of the Scottish people.
Strengthening Scotland’s Voice in International Negotiations
The SNP has clearly raised the game of Scottish politics on a local level, working for people in the constituencies across Scotland, on a domestic level, in Parliament and indeed even on an international level. Since being sworn in as First Minister Alex Salmond has been actively engaging with other countries and promoting Scotland on the international stage.
This was illustrated on the First Minister’s recent visit to Brussels where he made the persuasive case for Scotland to lead the UK delegation at future EU fisheries talks. With 68% of the UK catch, one sixth of the EU’s 65,000 kilometres of coastline and the largest fishing zone of any single EU country, it is ludicrous that Scotland takes a backseat role when decisions which directly affect its fishing communities are being made. The SNP will heighten Scotland’s profile on the international arena and ensure that it plays a significant role in EU negotiations, particularly those on fisheries. No longer will Scotland be left standing in the background while its fate is being decided by other member states.
A Boost for Aberdeenshire Schools
Schools in Aberdeenshire received a major boost this week when SNP Government Minister for Children and Early Years, Adam Ingram announced that Aberdeenshire Council will receive an additional £3.5 Million in funding for schools in the area. The extra money will be invested in upgrading school grounds and buildings. This comes as very positive news for schools in Banff & Buchan as it has recently become apparent that a number of school buildings owned by the council are in need of improvement. This will also assist schools in accommodating smaller class sizes in the near future.
It is the children of the area that will to reap the benefits of this funding. Their education and wellbeing will be greatly enhanced by this investment in their school facilities. Schools are the places our children reside every day and where they are educated and prepared for their future. This is why it is vital that schools are kept in optimum condition to provide children with an environment where they can learn, develop and grow to the full of their potential. The SNP government understands this fundamental necessity and recognises that the way to truly invest in Scotland’s future is through early intervention and investment in Scotland’s youth.
