Challenge and Opportunity

The theme of 2016 has been both challenge and opportunity. This has perhaps been most starkly displayed by Brexit. I am working hard with fishing interests to protect their interest in exploiting new catching opportunities.

But there is absolute silence about the UK Government's intentions. Will they sell out fishing again? We need to be very wary and watchful. What I do know is that I will not compromise on getting what is best for my constituents nor for Scotland.

However, there have been other equally important things. Perhaps most important is our First Minister’s decision to have inclusion as the unifying force in this Parliament.

Why inclusion? Very simply, because it means putting the most vulnerable in a position to succeed. It means making sure young people get the best start in life. It means the elderly have access to the best possible health care through the NHS.

But inclusion isn’t limited to the narrowness of government policy. Inclusion is about us sharing responsibility and taking care of one another.

It’s already a central aspect of Scottish society. It’s about seeing family and friends. It’s what we do on the holidays – we support one another, we do something nice for one another.
In Banffshire & Buchan Coast there are plenty examples of that inclusive connection. In Peterhead, community organisation Modo – Circus with Purpose seeks to give young people the confidence and skills to thrive. Modo creates connections and assists young people from all backgrounds.

But there’s more. We’ve seen the heroic effects of inclusivity. This year alone we’ve had Corey Tocher, a young Cub Scout Leader go to London to donate stem cells to the Anthony Nolan Trust to save another’s life. Then shortly after that, Banff firefighter Kevin Smith bravely rescued a woman from a sinking car in Macduff Harbour. These heroic acts come from a commitment to our community.

Our inclusive nature extends to the office Christmas party, Hogmanay or even at a Burns Supper – it’s already part of us. Now I realise that we can all disagree – and that’s okay. Sometimes we are going to disagree, that’s life. But we live in a culture where we can disagree and still help one another.

So this holiday season try and remember that. Our experience as human beings is made richer by the people we share it with. Go out and do something positive for your community. Do something positive for your fellow human being.

This year has seen much political rhetoric aimed at dividing us into opposing groups. No! Let Scottish traditions speak for themselves. Ultimately, there is far more that unites us than divides us.

I accept, there is more work to be done and always will be. But for today and during the holidays, let’s focus on being inclusive. Let’s give everyone the chance to enjoy being part of something. I wish you all a very happy holiday and look forward to a positive 2017 for everyone.