It’s been another busy term in the Scottish Parliament leading up to the summer recess, when the official business winds to a close.
The recent launch of the Yes Campaign for Scottish independence was a momentous occasion – not just for lifelong independence supporters like myself – but for people who come from a variety of backgrounds and political persuasions. The launch in Edinburgh heralded the start of a national conversation that will assist the people of Scotland to make the most important constitutional decision our country has taken for 300 years.
I’m sure I am not alone when I say it’s time for a reasoned, rational debate from all sides without the scaremongering and hysterics we have been experiencing that throw a smokescreen over the real issues. If you are undecided, please come to the debate with an open mind and in autumn 2014 you can make your decision based on the facts – not fiction.
Locally, a personal highlight for me was the launch of a terrific new service in the town called Hear to Help, initiated by the charity Action on Hearing Loss Scotland. The drop- in service takes place at the Clyde Shopmobility at 22 Alexander Street on the first and third Friday of every month, from 10am to 12noon.
Advice on any issue related to hearing loss, including basic hearing aid maintenance, will be offered by the friendly volunteers, many of whom have hearing loss themselves. It’s a fantastic service and will make a huge difference to those who struggle daily with the challenges hearing loss presents.
Finally, it was my pleasure to introduce a motion in Parliament congratulating Clydemuir Primary School in Dalmuir for raising £469 at its activities day, which included sports and dancing lessons by the Laura Gray School of Dance. The money will go towards an outreach trip to Malawi by teachers and underlines the close association and friendship between Scottish children and the people of Malawi. Well done to everyone involved in this terrific event.
To contact me during the summer phone 952 9677, or email: gil.paterson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk.
GIL PATERSON
