My column in the Scotsman. “There was a buzz in nationalist circles in Scotland, as there was surprise in British ones, at the Irish election result. “Sinn Fein polled better than many had ever imagined even if the demise of Fine Gael shouldn’t have come as such a shock. “It does mean that a United Ireland is drawing ever closer,… Read more »
My column in the Scotsman. “Visiting a community project in my constituency reminded me why justice is best delivered close to home. Youngsters in danger of going off the rails and the not-so-young seeking to get back on them were all being helped. Good work was being done and the community that had sometimes suffered from them appreciated it. “Atonement… Read more »
My column in the East Lothian Courier – 10 February 2020 The county possesses many holiday and caravan parks. Folk from near and far use them and enjoy them immensely. I’ve visited a few and they’re well looked after, bringing jobs and spending power to the communities near them. It’s no longer just caravans static or mobile on site but… Read more »
It was really great to spend some time yesterday with staff, volunteers, and service users at Headway East Lothian in Musselburgh, a charity that does fantastic work providing information, support and services to people with a brain injury, their families and carers. Headway are active throughout East Lothian, with regular meetings in Dunbar, Haddington and Musselburgh.
Viridor Dunbar Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) is an energy capture facility, located in one of the old Cement quarries outside Dunbar. I visited them yesterday (14 February) to find out more about what they do. The ERF takes in waste products that cannot be recycled and would normally be put into landfill. It then uses those materials to produce electricity… Read more »
I was delighted to pay a visit to the Tarmac Dunbar Cement Works today. The Cement Works is a major employer of locals in Dunbar. It was fascinating to see, how the plant works and to speak with management there about the process and how they are responding to local issues in the Dunbar area, national concerns about infrastructure projects… Read more »
In my column in the Scotsman this week I discuss why it’s high time we abolished the House of Lords. I’m a supporter of a second chamber, whether in the UK or an independent Scotland. The ability to have a further review and considered input enhances democracy. But planned appointments to the House of Lords, if true, are craven and… Read more »
Today I spoke in the Terrorist Offenders (Restriction of Early Release) Bill debate. This issue is important because we need to keep our communities safe. It is essential that the methods we use to do this are proportionate and effective. You can watch the video below, or read the speech at the UK Parliament’s Hansard Website.
I am pleased to support this campaign from the charity Independent Age. The percentage of the population of retirement age in East Lothian is higher than the Scottish average. That means there are a significant number of pensioners in East Lothian who are not getting all the benefits they are entitled to. Pension credit not only tops up your pension… Read more »
Congratulations to those who have campaigned for this new cycle path. I’m quoted in the piece saying “This is great news. Safe, family-friendly active travel options are essential for both commuters and citizens alike. “This new pathway will be good for the health of local residents and our environment. Campaigners, CALA and local landowners are to be commended for making… Read more »