Under 18s will face tough new barriers to buying knives online, following the introduction of the Offensive Weapons Bill.

The Bill will mean online retailers cannot sell knives online without rigorous age-verification, and will no longer be able to deliver knives to residential addresses or drop-off points. It will furthermore ban certain firearms their accessories, including bump stocks.

As the legislation contains elements that are reserved to Westminster, the Bill is a UK Government Bill which has been developed closely with the SNP Government for those areas that extend to Scotland. For the devolved parts areas of the Bill, the SNP Government will promote a legislative consent motion in the Scottish Parliament to seek consent for Westminster to legislative on devolved matters.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said:

“I wrote to the UK Government in January 2017 raising concerns about the online sale of knives and the need for a joint approach. I’m glad to see this Bill will address these issues and ensure more barriers are put in place to stop young people accessing knives and other offensive weapons online.

“We are resolute in our determination to tackle violent crime, and this Bill, on which we have engaged closely with the UK Government, ensures we are going further to prevent incidents with offensive weapons from happening in the first place, as well as future-proofing the law.

“Possession of offensive weapons fell 69% from 2006 to 2016, and we are continuing to work with schools and local authorities on anti-violence campaigns to reduce incidents further.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“Scotland has led the way when it comes to the reduction of offensive weapon crime and it is heartening to see that the UK Government is now acting on our Justice Secretary Michael Matheson’s request to take measures to help curb online sales to under 18s.

“Since the SNP came into Government in 2007, the number of people carrying knives has decreased by 69%, from 10,110 to 3,111 across Scotland and in North Ayrshire by a whopping 77%. However, young people still have access to offensive weapons through online sales and I welcome the introduction of this Bill to help us continue this reduction and, ultimately, save more lives.”

ENDS

An additional £1.35 million will be invested by the SNP Government to develop a national training programme for workers who support people with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and traumatic experiences in adulthood, such as physical or sexual abuse.

The programme, announced by Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP, will be led and coordinated by NHS Education for Scotland who will work with partners, including people with lived experience of trauma, to create and deliver quality training resources.

This three-year SNP Government funding package will provide direct training to over 5,000 people across all sectors of the Scottish workforce, with a new national trauma training plan to be published before the end of 2018.

Welcoming the announcement, Sandie Barton, Director of Operations at Rape Crisis Scotland, said:

“Rape Crisis Scotland is delighted with the announcement of this new funding which will enable a more confident and knowledgeable workforce. We know from survivors of sexual violence that having trauma informed services that listen and respond with sensitivity can make all the difference to their recovery."

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“Almost one in five adults has experienced physical or sexual abuse in their childhood, and more than a quarter of all women have experienced domestic abuse. The long-lasting effects of these traumatic experiences cannot be underestimated, and it is vital that people are supported in overcoming them.

“This training will give front line workers such as medical professionals and police officers the knowledge, skills and confidence they need when responding to people affected by adversity and trauma – giving choice and control to people who need it most.”

ENDS

A consultation by the SNP Government on proposals for farming and rural support, should Scotland leave the EU, have been announced by Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing MSP.

The proposals aim to provide stability, certainty and simplicity for farmers, crofters and land users, with the key measure of a transition period of between three and five years being one of the main recommendations of the Agriculture Champions.

At the same time, some measures will be streamlined and simplified, to free up resource and allow the pilot and test activities likely to feature in a future farming and rural support policy. Key changes proposed include a limit on payments, reduced inspections and penalties.

Launching the consultation, Mr Ewing said:

“As we are taken out of the EU, we must now decide how radical we wish to be, and importantly, how fast we wish to change. My priority in the short term is to provide people in rural businesses with as much security as possible and this paper sets out options to try and achieve this.

“I am proposing that support schemes for active farming, food production, environmental improvements, forestry and rural development fundamentally stay largely the same. However, where schemes and processes can usefully be simplified and streamlined, we should do so, particularly if that frees up resource to test new approaches and measures.

“I also want to hear views on the longer term direction of travel. All ideas and suggestions will be explored as part of the wider civic conversation around how best to sustain a vibrant and flourishing rural economy. With Brexit representing the biggest challenge to rural Scotland for a generation, people deserve security and stability, and that is what I am determined to provide.”

The National Farmers’ Union of Scotland has welcomed the consultation, with its President Andrew McCornick commenting:

“We welcome the Cabinet Secretary's call for views and see this as an important step in delivering the correct policy for Scottish farmers and crofters.

“Likewise, the Cabinet Secretary’s commitment to look at legislative simplification and addressing the disproportionate mapping, inspection and penalty process will be music to the ears of farmers and crofters and mirrors our own priorities.

"At an economic level, future policy must recognise that agriculture already supports more than 75,000 businesses in the food and drinks industry. With food and drink our leading manufacturing sector, and ambitions for growth in the years ahead, policy developments must recognise that profitable and productive farmers and crofters are at the heart of this Scottish success story.”

The consultation Support for Agricultur and Rural Economy Post Brexit Transition runs until 07 September, as part of the civic conversation being held this summer which also involves activity by the National Council on Rural Advisors to seek views on its more far-reaching recommendations to support growth in the rural economy.

ENDS

As the SNP Government prepares to introduce a new definition of 'ultra-orphan medicines' that can treat very rare conditions affecting fewer than 1 in 50,000 people, patients across North Ayrshire and Scotland with very rare diseases should get faster access to new treatments.

The new definition allows the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) the ability to treat some medicines for rare orphan diseases as ultra-orphan medicines.

If the medicine meets the new definition of an ultra-orphan medicine and the SMC consider it clinically effective, then it will be made available on the NHS for at least three years while information on its effectiveness is gathered. After this, the SMC will then review the evidence and may make a final decision on its routine use in NHS Scotland.

In addition, medicines that fall under the new definition and which have been recently reviewed by the SMC but not recommended for routine use, will be admitted to the new pathway.

Health Secretary Shona Robison said:

“Patients with the rarest of conditions are often children and treatment choice can be limited, so we are acting to make access to specialised medicines easier across the NHS.

“Changes introduced this month through the new Peer Approved Clinical System Tier Two already give doctors the right to seek access to licensed treatments not generally available in the NHS in Scotland.

“These new rules for medicines that can treat those with the rarest of diseases will give faster access to new treatments. The process has been designed to be consistent and quick to implement for patients, and it will strengthen Scotland’s reputation as an international life sciences hub.

“Given ultra-orphan drugs are often very expensive, it is also vital that pharmaceutical companies play their part and bring a fair price, first time, to the process.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“I am delighted that the SNP Government is following the expert recommendations given by Dr Brian Montgomery in his Review of Access to New Medicines by developing an alternative assessment pathway for ultra-orphan medicines.

“I look forward to patients benefitting from this increased access to the medication they need, managing rare and often very complex conditions.

“We should still do our best to help patients manage rare illnesses and this is a great step forward in helping to achieve that.”

The changes will come into effect from 01 October 2018.

ENDS

The SNP Government broke ground on 6,036 new homes for social rent in Scotland last year, while official figures show that in England the number of social sector houses built has plummeted by more than 96% since the Tories came to power in 2010 to a mere 1,409. In 2009/10 the number was 39,402.

Meanwhile, the SNP set ambitious targets to build at least 50,000 new affordable homes in the course of this 2016-2021 parliament, 35,000 of which will be for social rent. The First Minister announced a further £25 million to build an additional 3,000 homes on top of this figure in her recent speech to SNP Conference.

Under SNP leadership, Scotland’s rate of social sector housing starts sits 328% higher than England’s under the Tories, or 44 times the rate per head of population.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“The SNP is making significant strides to build new homes for Scotland – homes that people need and, crucially, ones they can afford. That’s fundamental to building the fairer, more prosperous Scotland that we all want to see.

“Last year we began building 328% more homes for social rent than south of the border – 44 times more homes per head of population in Scotland compared to England.

“The Tories aren’t just failing on social housing; they have an ideological aversion to building new homes for people on lower incomes who cannot afford to buy. Even Theresa May admits the UK government is failing to deliver. Meanwhile, the SNP Government is building at least 50,000 new affordable homes in this parliament, with the majority of these for social rent.

“Everyone in Scotland should have a safe, warm and affordable home. That’s central to our ambition.”

Social sector new starts in Scotland in 2017/18 = 6,036

England population 2017 = 55,268,067

Scotland population 2017 = 5,404,700

ENDS

The gap between pupils from the most and least deprived areas who go on to university, college or a job after school has closed by over a fifth in one year, new figures show.

The proportion of 2016/17 school leavers from the most deprived areas in a positive destination nine months after leaving school increased to 87.6% – reducing the gap with school leavers from the least deprived areas.

The percentage of looked after children achieving at least SCQF level 5 (Higher or equivalent) has demonstrated a whopping increase from 15% in 2009/10 to 44% in 2016/17.

It comes as a suite of new figures also show improved attainment by children in literacy and numeracy over the last four years; a record 19.3% of young people leaving school with an Advanced Higher pass as opposed to 17.6% in 2012/13; and a narrowing of the attainment gap between looked after children and all school leavers from 62% in 2009/10 to 42% in 2016/17.

Local authority spending on education in 2017-18 was 3.2% higher than 2016-17. Local authority education budgets for 2018-19 is 3.8% higher than 2017-18.

Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney MSP said:

“These figures are indicative of a high performing education system, which is testament to the efforts of our teachers, our school staff and our education leaders to give every child the opportunity to fulfil their full potential in life.

“Already the action of this Government is delivering real improvement in our schools, and implementation of reforms to empower schools and school leaders will accelerate this.

“I’m particularly pleased to see an increasing proportion of looked after children leaving school with at least a Higher or equivalent, but clearly the gap is still too wide.

“The findings of the independent Care Review and this Government’s £750 million investment through the Scottish Attainment Challenge will, I believe, see us make even more progress in closing the poverty-related attainment gap in years to come.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“It is no secret that helping young people achieve educational and professional goals and minimising the attainment gap are key issues for the SNP and I am proud to say that our flagship policies on this front are proving effective.

“Much credit of course goes to front line teaching staff, who tirelessly work day in day out to motive pupils and help them achieve their best.

“We have a record 92.9% of young people are now in a positive destination nine months after leaving school, a record 38.3% of school leavers in higher education nine months after leaving school and a record 29.9% of school leavers with 5 or more passes at SCQF Level 5 (Higher or equivalent) – up from 22.2% in 2009/10.

“I am immensely pleased that there are also fewer unemployed school leavers than ever before. These young people are the future of Scotland and the SNP Government will continue to help them grasp every opportunity to find a positive destination, wherever they are from.”

ENDS

The Court of Session has today rejected a petition by Ineos Upstream Ltd and Reach Coal Seam Ltd that sought to challenge the SNP Government’s actions in relation to unconventional oil and gas – which includes fracking and coalbed methane extraction.

Welcoming the Court’s decision, the Minister for Business, Energy and Innovation Paul Wheelhouse MSP said:

“I welcome the Court of Session’s ruling on this important issue, which has been a cause of acute concern in communities across Scotland.

“This decision vindicates the extensive process of research and consultation which the SNP Government has undertaken since 2015.

“As I set out last October, our preferred position is not to support Unconventional Oil and Gas extraction in Scotland, and that position remains unchanged.

“I have repeatedly set out to parliament that we would undertake a Strategic Environmental Assessment ahead of finalising that position and that approach has been endorsed by the overwhelming majority of the Scottish Parliament.

“The work to complete the SEA and a Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment is currently underway and the findings will be carefully considered.

“In the meantime, a moratorium is in place which means no local authority can grant planning permission and Ministers would defer any decision on any application that did come forward until the policymaking process is completed. The practical effect of the current moratorium and the policymaking process which is underway to finalise our position is that no fracking can take place in Scotland at this time.”

ENDS

The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) has launched Getting My Life Back: Occupational Therapy Promoting Mental Health & Wellbeing.

Occupational therapists (OTs) make a real difference to people's lives and are keen to make sure decision makers have a better understanding of how involving OTs in policy development, service re-design and legislation from the outset will help deliver better services and better outcomes.

The Mental Health report is one of a series of Improving Lives Saving Money reports by RCOT. They cover everything from putting prevention at the heart of care for older people to taking pressure off our hospitals. You can find out more at Improving lives campaign reports

OTs are working across Scotland in a range of different settings across health, care, justice, employment and education.

ENDS

Primary and secondary schools in North Ayrshire will share a £5,889,762 funding boost in 2018/19 to help close the poverty-related attainment gap.

North Ayrshire Council is one of nine local authorities across Scotland allocated funding from the Attainment Challenge Fund, to support initiatives targeted at children living in communities affected by deprivation. In total, these nine challenge authorities will receive an additional £50 million in 2018/19.

An additional £4,413,960 in Pupil Equity Funding (PEF) has been awarded to North Ayrshire schools in 2018/19. Paid directly to schools, this funding will be focussed on improving literacy, numeracy, and health and wellbeing, to help ensure that all of Scotland's children and young people reach their full potential.

North Ayrshire schools will also have access to a network of Education Scotland Attainment Advisors to provide guidance and share good practice via the National Improvement Hub.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“This funding boost brings the total investment on raising attainment in North Ayrshire to £10,303,722 this year. Over 40% of this is Pupil Equity Funding which is allocated to schools based on the number of pupils receiving free school meals and spent at the discretion of head teachers.

“By giving head teachers the resources, funding, and indeed the autonomy to do what they do best, we are already narrowing the attainment gap and ensuring that every child gets the best possible start in life, regardless of their background.”

Pupil Equity Funding, Challenge Authority, and Schools Programme funding together comprise the Attainment Challenge Fund. NAC is a Challenge Authority, so in total receives £10,303,722 from the Attainment Challenge Fund.

£5,889,762 of this goes directly to NAC, the other £4,413,960 is PEF.

ENDS

PEF is delivered to schools as detailed below. For schools where revealing the allocation level may disclose individual pupils, their funding has been redacted.

PRIMARY

Abbey Primary School £87,600

Annick Primary School £73,200

Ardeer Primary School £88,560

Beith Primary School £104,400

Blacklands Primary School £44,400

Brodick Primary School £6,480

Caledonia Primary School £93,960

Castlepark Primary School £229,200

Corsehill Primary School £66,000

Cumbrae Primary School £7,560

Dalry Primary School £118,800

Dreghorn Primary School £78,000

Dykesmains Primary School £94,800

Elderbank Primary School £198,000

Fairlie Primary School £8,400

Garnock Community Campus £43,200

Gateside Primary School £6,480

Glebe Primary School £82,800

Glencairn Primary School £79,200

Hayocks Primary School £148,800

Lamlash Primary School £8,640

Largs Primary School £98,400

Lawthorn Primary School £51,600

Loudoun-Montgomery Primary £78,000

Mayfield Primary School £80,400

Moorpark Primary School £82,800

Pennyburn Primary School £112,800

Springside Primary School £46,800

St Anthony's Primary School £63,720

St Bridget's Primary School £79,200

St John Ogilvie Primary School £63,600

St John's Primary School £55,200

St Luke's Primary School £43,200

St Mark's Primary School £117,600

St Mary's Primary School £15,600

St Palladius' Primary School £22,800

St Peter's Primary School £57,240

St Winning's Primary School £43,200

Stanley Primary School £175,200

West Kilbride Primary School £49,200

Whitehirst Park Primary £28,080

Whiting Bay Primary School £7,200

Winton Primary School £79,200

Woodlands Primary School £194,400

SECONDARY

Ardrossan Academy £129,600

Arran High School £12,960

Auchenharvie Academy £121,200

Garnock Community Campus £106,800

Greenwood Academy £166,800

Irvine Royal Academy £133,200

Kilwinning Academy £116,400

Largs Academy £58,320

St Matthew's Academy £177,600

SPECIAL

Haysholm School £26,400

James McFarlane School £8,400

James Reid School £27,600

Stanecastle School £13,200

Following the UK Tory Government pushing its EU Withdrawal Bill through, despite overwhelming opposition in the Scottish Parliament, there has been a surge in SNP support.

Last Wednesday’s display of contempt, ranging from infantile World Cup jibes of “SNP – Scotland Not Playing” to the more serious call for SNP Westminster Leader Ian Blackford to consider “suicide” resulted in an increase in SNP membership of 5,085 in only 24 hours.

In a seven-hour session last Tuesday before the EU Withdrawal Bill vote, only 15 minutes were allotted to discuss the impact on Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. One Tory Minister filibustered throughout and no Scottish MPs were permitted to speak.

The Bill passed as Labour and Lib Dem MPs abstained, including measures returning to Westminster EU powers that have been under the Scottish Parliament’s remit for 19 years. This prevents Holyrood from legislating in existing devolved areas and allowing UK Ministers to make changes in devolved areas without the Scottish Parliament’s consent for 7 years.

In a further act of contempt for Scotland, the House of Commons Speaker expelled SNP Westminster Leader Ian Blackford MP from the Chamber after the latter insisted measures should be taken to ensure Scotland’s voice is heard, prompting a mass walk out of SNP MPs.

The latest developments were the straw that broke the camel’s back for many. Murray Foote, - architect of the so-called ‘Vow’ which appeared on the Daily Record front page two days before the Referendum in 2014 and promised more powers for Scotland if it voted No - came out in support of independence and stated:

“The difficult decisions our independent nation would face and the sacrifices we may need to make do trouble me. But what troubles me more is the prospect of bequeathing to my daughters an isolated Britain governed indefinitely by the progeny of Rees-Mogg and their ilk.

“I have reconciled that independence would herald good and bad. I trust in us to solve the problems that will come our way. If so many other countries can, it is inconceivable that Scotland can’t.”

Kenneth Gibson commented:

“Publicly admitting you have changed your mind is not easy and I welcome Murray Foote and all our new SNP members to the independence cause.

“If anyone was under the illusion that the UK establishment had any intention of living up to ‘The Vow,’ this bubble has now well and truly burst. Not only have the Tories proceeded to strip the Scottish Parliament of powers that are rightfully ours, Labour and Lib Dem MPs didn’t even bother to oppose it.

“It just goes to show that it doesn’t matter what Labour and the Lib Dems say at Holyrood, their Westminster colleagues will stand aloof, ultimately helping the Tories. With this power grab we will see much more of that.

“Only one party consistently stands up for Scotland and that is the SNP.”

ENDS

The SNP Government has announced £1.3 million of new funding to encourage more people to start using electric bicycles, particularly for shorter journeys.

The Low Carbon Transport Loan Fund has £500,000 available for interest-free loans of up to £3,000 to help individuals and businesses purchase e-bikes and e-cargo bikes.

The E-bike Grant Fund will allocate £700,000 for local authorities, public sector agencies, community organisations, colleges and universities to encourage large scale e-bike adoption. It is expected grants will fund e-bike pools, secure cycle parking and safety equipment.

A further £100,000 will be available through the E-bike Grant Fund to let members of the public test ride e-bikes at Home Energy Scotland advice centres, active travel hubs and community centres.

The funding was announced by Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity Fergus Ewing who said:

“These funds are the latest in a range of measures the SNP Government is introducing to encourage sustainable and active travel.”

“We want more people, who undertake shorter journeys, to leave their cars at home and go by bike for the benefit of their health and our environment.

“E-bikes can be a great way of getting started with active travel as they offer as much assistance as the rider needs. They also make it easy for people to take heavy bags with them using panniers, trailers or by opting for an e-cargo bike in the first place.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“This is another innovative move by the SNP Government to reduce carbon output across Scotland and tackle health issues at the same time. It may also reduce journey times particularly in urban areas.

“Electric bikes provide a great solution for those who are looking to move away from driving or public transport but feel not quite ready to move on to cycling.

“Not having to do the pedalling all the time will encourage commuters and travellers to spend less time inside their cars and on buses and more time outside, which benefits not only physical but also mental health.”

ENDS

Suicide prevention services will benefit from an additional £3 million innovation fund Mental Health Minister Maureen Watt MSP has announced.

Speaking ahead of a debate on mental health, Ms Watt also confirmed that a new suicide prevention plan would be published before the end of the month.

Ms Watt said:

“We will invest an extra £3 million into a new suicide prevention fund to support a Leadership Group to innovate and drive forward new work to help prevent suicides across Scotland. This is on top of the current spending of over £2 million annually on suicide prevention services.

“As we break down the stigma and better understand how to care for mental health, demand increases and we expect to see detailed plans for taking forward new models of support and services, including through partnership with the third sector.

“We are also working with those who have used services to ensure that as we reshape services we reflect the needs of those seeking support and treatment and align this with medical delivery plans.”

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“The tragedy of suicide is not just restricted to people with mental health problems. It can really strike anywhere. It is therefore heartening that the SNP Government is investing additional resources to develop new initiatives and, ultimately, help save lives.”

ENDS

Nicola Sturgeon MSP led the opening of a hat-trick of new schools today, as the total number of new or refurbished schools reached 751 since the SNP came to office in 2007.

The First Minister opened the new Largs Campus on the same day that Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP opened Dundee’s new Baldragon Academy and Education Minister Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP opened Edinburgh’s new Boroughmuir High School.

All three projects are supported by the SNP Government’s School for the Future programme, with the new Largs Campus including Largs Early Learning Centre, Largs Primary, St Mary’s Primary and Largs Academy.

The SNP Government’s Schools for the Future programme will deliver 117 new schools of which 87 are now open, with the rest to be completed by 2020. A further 664 schools have been refurbished to date. The First Minister said:

“I am pleased to officially open these tremendous new Largs Campus buildings. It’s clear to see that the pupils and staff are all enjoying and benefiting from their new learning environment.

“This is just the latest of the long list of schools now rebuilt or refurbished, with a hat-trick of schools being officially opened today. That’s a reflection of the importance of education as this government’s number one priority.

“Not only do these new schools provide enormous benefits for the education of our children and young people, they also help the local economy with jobs and apprenticeship opportunities during construction, serving the wider community once open. I have no doubt this will also be the case here in Largs.”

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“I am delighted that of three official school openings today, the First Minister chose to open the magnificent new Largs Campus.

“The campus really is quite magnificent, built in partnership between the SNP Government and North Ayrshire Council, whose officers have dedicated themselves to this project over months and years.

“All evidence shows that enhanced learning facilities improve school morale attainment and the enjoyment of a school both by pupils and staff. The state-of-the-art Largs Campus can only further improve the outcomes of what were already excellent and high attaining schools.”

Largs Campus received £25.3 million of funding under Scotland’s Schools for the Future programme; Baldragon Academy £19.5 million and Boroughmuir High School £17.2 million.

The proportion of Scottish schools in a good or satisfactory condition has increased from 61% to 86% since 2007.

The £1,800 million Scotland’s Schools for the Future programme involves £1,130 million of SNP Government funding, with local authorities contributing £665 million.

At least one new school project is being delivered in every Scottish local authority area.

Since 2007, 751 school building projects have been completed.

ENDS

Over £21 million will be invested in improving the financial support available to university and college students, the First Minister has announced.

As part of a package of measures:

The bursary for care-experienced students in further and higher education will increase this year from £6,625 to £8,100, bringing the support available in line with the Scottish living wage.Also, the Care Experienced Further Education Bursary will rise from £4,185 to £8,100.£16 million will be invested next year increasing college bursaries and university grants for students from the lowest income families, while expanding access to them.The student loan repayment threshold will be raised to £25,000 from April 2021, while this year the maximum repayment period will be lowered from 35 to 30 years.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP said:

“We are determined to widen access to university. To help do that, the Student Support Review we set up recommended an increase in support of £16 million in the first instance.

“We will go further. By 2021, funding for student support will increase by more than £20 million a year.

“We will increase the amount graduates can earn before they begin to repay student loans. Our commitment was to raise the threshold to £22,000. We will go further and increase it to £25,000 instead.

“This package reaffirms our commitment that access to university should be based on the ability to learn not the ability to pay.”

The Programme for Government 2017-18 had previously committed to raising the repayment threshold for student loans to £22,000 by the end of the Parliament.

ENDS

The overwhelming majority of NHS Scotland staff will receive a 3% pay rise this year, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP has announced.

The announcement benefits 147,000 ‘Agenda for Change’ staff, such as nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, therapists, paramedics, support staff and administrators. It does not affect doctors, dentists or senior managers.

Staff currently earning up to £80,000 will receive at least a 3% uplift, and those earning £80,000 and over will receive a flat rate increase of £1,600. Staff not at the top of their pay bands will also receive any incremental progression they are due.

Negotiations between the SNP Government, employers and unions on pay, terms and conditions continue towards a three year pay deal.

Compared to equivalent staff in NHS England:

Experienced porters at the top of Band 2 will be over £500 better off;Healthcare assistants at the top of Band 3 will be over £600 better off;Auxiliary nurses with a year’s experience in Band 4 would be over £800 better off;Nurses with five years’ experience in Band 5 will be over £400 better off;Paramedics in middle of Band 6 will be over £450 better off; andAdvanced Nurse Practitioners in the middle of Band 7 will be over £250 better off.

For staff paid weekly, the pay uplift will be paid week beginning Monday 02 July 2018. For those paid monthly, the uplift will be made in July salaries. All payments will be backdated to 01 April 2018.

The First Minister said:

“We know that for NHS staff, and all those who work in our public services, the last few years of pay restraint have been tough. That’s why I’m proud that our government was the first in the UK to lift the 1% pay cap.

“We’re currently in negotiations to agree a 3 year pay deal for NHS staff in which we aim to exceed the deal agreed in England.

“I don’t want those working so hard in the NHS to have to wait for that agreement to get a pay rise this year. So, we will make a payment on account as negotiations continue.

“All staff working under NHS Agenda for Change and earning up to £80,000 pounds, will receive a 3% pay rise in their pay packets next month.”

ENDS

A record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) was attracted to Scotland for the third year in a row in 2017 according to new figures from accountancy group Ernst & Young (EY).

The country experienced a 7% increase in the number of investments secured last year, taking the total up to 116. This rate of growth was higher than the UK’s 6%.

Scotland's share of UK FDI has now risen to 9.6%, above our historic average of 9.3% and population share of 8.3%.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“Scotland had another strong FDI performance in 2017 driven in part by an increase in the number of digital projects locating here, with a 56% increase on 2016.

“Business services brought the largest number of FDI projects, 23, to Scotland last year, a 10% increase on 2016.

“In 2017 manufacturing along with research and development, both achieved significant growth in Scotland. The nation also performed well in securing headquarters projects. Despite the Brexit storm clouds, I believe a bright future lies ahead.”

Mark Harvey, senior partner in Scotland for EY, said the findings were "hugely encouraging” adding:

"These areas of success are underpinned by the strength of the universities producing high calibre, talented people who want to build their career in Scotland.

"Scotland’s long-term attractiveness to investors will rely, in part, on the ability to remain a first-choice destination for international students.”

The EY survey can be accessed here.

ENDS

Kenneth Gibson is backing Carers Week, 11-17 June, by highlighting the work of the estimated 788,000 unpaid carers across Scotland, one in seven of the population, 44,000 of them under the age of 18.

Unpaid carers look after a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or addiction cannot cope without such support.

Kenneth Gibson commented:

“I am pleased to support the work that carers do in our communities.

“In North Ayrshire alone, there are an estimated 19,500 unpaid carers, with more than 2,000 of them under the age of 18. It is our duty to support them in whatever way we can.

“The SNP Government has led leading the way in supporting unpaid carers, investing over £135 million, as well as passing the new Carers Act in 2016, that came into force this year which extends the rights of carers and ensures better support.

“Through Scotland’s new Social Security Agency, the SNP Government will increase Carers Allowance to the level of Job Seeker’s Allowance, giving carers that little bit extra support that can go a long way.

“Carers Week gives us all the chance to show our support and appreciation for the work carers do in our local communities.”

Information on Carers Week can be found at: https://www.carersweek.org/ .

ENDS

Under new legislation, seat belts must now be provided on dedicated school transport in Scotland.

The Seat Belts on School Transport (Scotland) Act 2017, which will come into force on 01 August 2018, requires every child to have access to a seat belt when travelling to and from school.

National guidance and awareness-raising materials have been published online and sent to school authorities and other interested parties with information on seat belt fitting, wearing and monitoring.

Schools and local authorities will use the guidance as an opportunity to look at what approaches have worked for encouraging pupils to wear seat belts. A recent YoungScot survey highlighted peer pressure was one of the reasons they were not worn on school transport.

Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“The SNP Government is committed to achieving safer road travel, which is why we’re urging pupils to wear a seat belt and making sure that they are available to all.

“Safety at school should begin with safe transport and I am sure that families will feel reassured that their child is guaranteed access to a seat belt when returning to school after the summer holidays.”

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf MSP commented:

“While the Act won’t affect the law on the wearing of seat belts, which - astonishingly - is reserved to Westminster, the SNP Government has always been clear that the Act represents an opportunity to promote seat belt wearing and wider awareness of safety.”

ENDS

Scotland is the first country in the UK to enact legislation banning the use of wild animals in circuses.

Celebrating this popular measure, Animal Defenders International (ADI) renewed its call to other UK nations to follow Scotland’s lead.

The Wild Animals in Travelling Circuses (Scotland) Act 2018 came into force on 28 May, five months after the Bill was unanimously passed by MSPs. Its introduction followed a public consultation conducted by the SNP Government revealed 98% of respondents backed a ban.

Jan Creamer, President of Animal Defenders International, said:

“Having campaigned for many years to end the suffering of circus animals, we are thrilled that Scotland has taken action. We now look to England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow Scotland’s lead and deliver legislation that the public have long wanted and the animals so desperately need.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“While I am pleased to say there are no wild animal circuses based in Scotland, this is an important step as we can now legally say no to wild animal circuses which used to come from England and other countries.

“The conditions under which tigers, lions and other magnificent wild animals are kept are heartbreaking and I am proud that Scotland is once again taking the lead when it comes to legislation ensuing this becomes a fairer place for man and animal alike.

“I would urge the rest of the UK will do the right thing and follow in our footsteps.”

ADI is currently assisting the authorities in Guatemala with enforcement of legislation banning animal circus acts which passed in 2017 and which took effect last month. ADI removed the animals, three lions, from the first circus in Guatemala last week and is seeking urgent funds to save dozens more. You can donate to ADI here.

ENDS

Expert recommendations to make school food and drink even healthier are being consulted on by the SNP Government.

Strict rules already apply to the nutritional content of meals, drinks and snacks served in schools; however, following a review by health, nutrition and education experts, views are being sought on proposals to further reduce sugar and other measures to promote healthy choices and help tackle childhood obesity.

The proposals include:

Increasing access to fresh fruit and vegetables with a minimum of two portions of veg and a portion of fruit to be offered as part of a school lunch

Introducing lower sugar limits, for example in breakfast cereals and yoghurts

Reducing the availability of sweetened and baked goods in primary schools

No longer permitting fruit juice and smoothies in primary and secondary schools

Introducing a new red meat regulation, specifying how much of a child’s weekly intake should be high-quality produce and limits the amount of processed meat.

Education Secretary John Swinney MSP said:

“More than 360,000 meals are dished up in Scottish schools every day, setting children and young people up for their lessons and, through learning about healthy habits, for life.

“While our internationally acclaimed nutritional standards are already very high, we want to go further to promote healthy, high quality food and drink and tackle childhood obesity.

“Our proposals are based on the latest scientific and expert advice, as well as the views of local authorities, schools and catering staff. I urge everyone with an interest in school food to have their say.”

Kenneth Gibson commented:

“With 65% of adults in Scotland being overweight, obesity rates amongst the highest in the world and related pressures on the NHS estimated at between £350 and £600 million per year, the importance of early intervention and indeed prevention cannot be overstated.

“Apart from preventing of obesity later in life, nutritious meals are proven to have a positive impact on pupil performance, health and wellbeing and their general level of happiness.”

The consultation runs until Wednesday 29 August and can be accessed here.

ENDS

Today marks the start of Dementia Awareness Week 2018, which runs from 04-08 June. It is also National Volunteers Week from 01-07 June!

Did you know that 90,000 people across Scotland are living with dementia?

A dementia diagnosis changes the lives of not only a person with dementia, but also their family and friends. I am very much aware of this fact, as my own mother has it as did both of my grandmothers.

Dementia Awareness Week 2018 focuses on making sure nobody faces dementia alone. It’s vital that people living with dementia feel recognised, valued and supported in their local communities. Alzheimer Scotland is committed to providing a wide-range of dementia-specific support in the heart of local communities.

People can live well with dementia with the right information, care and support. By learning just a little bit more about dementia, you can make a big difference.

Today, at Quarriers North Ayrshire dementia befriending service in Saltcoats I met some lovely people who are doing just that. I awarded each with an achievement award as part of national volunteers week and stayed on for an hour to chat with each about their experiences.

Quarriers North Ayrshire dementia befriending service began at the end of 2015 and was up and running by 2016 Quarriers acquired funding from the Life Changes Trust; a charitable which aims to make a positive and permanent change in the lives of both children who have experienced being in care, and people diagnosed with dementia.

Quarriers’ service covers all of North Ayrshire. People who diagnosed with dementia can be referred through a variety of sources, such as social services, the NHS services family referrals.

Befrienders spend time each week with the person they are matched with and it is jointly decided what activities they do.

There are several organised music, arts and crafts and reminiscence groups. Or they might go shopping, for a coffee or visit a garden centre. The decision is theirs. Over time they will build up a relationship that respects professional boundaries.

For more information about becoming a dementia befriending volunteer, please contact:

ElizabethAnn Macdonald, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Dementia Befriending Service on 01294 444450 or 07812 228447, or via email at elizabethann.macdonald@quarriers.org.uk

ENDS

NHS Ayrshire & Arran is set to receive £1,852,000 as its share of a £25 million Scotland-wide investment in a number of specialities, including neurology, orthopaedics and diagnostics, to help deliver swift diagnosis and treatment of a range of conditions.

A further £25 million will be allocated later this year.

The extra funding is part of a package of measures to help reduce waiting times. Two independent diagnostic leads will be appointed to improve co-ordination across Scotland of specialist tests.

Kenneth Gibson MSP commented:

“NHS Ayrshire staff do an excellent job day in day out. This funding boost will support a package of measures to help further improve performance across Ayrshire.

“The SNP Government has already committed to invest an extra £2,000 million above inflation by the end of this parliament. The highest funding commitment of any party in Scotland. We already invest more in our NHS per head of population than the Tories in England and Labour in Wales, supporting frontline health services across Ayrshire.

“The SNP Government continues to do the job we were elected to do. This is exactly why our Accident and Emergency departments have had the best performance of anywhere in the UK over the last three years.”

ENDS

The SNP Government has announced a new £4 million funding package to support up to 90 educational psychology trainees over the next three years.

The funding, agreed in partnership with local authorities, will help with training fees and living costs to encourage more specialists to train and work in Scotland, with the aim of improving access to support and close the attainment gap.

The partnership funding model was developed with stakeholders, including psychology professionals, through the National Scottish Steering Group for Educational Psychologists which is chaired by the Scottish Government.

Education Secretary John Swinney said:

“The work of educational psychologists significantly contributes to the equality, effectiveness and inclusiveness of our schools and they play a vital role in raising attainment.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“By working closely with the school community, and other relevant professionals, educational psychologists help build capacity to meet the learning and mental health needs of pupils. I am confident that this significant investment will have long-lasting positive effects on young people in Scotland.”

ENDS

The SNP Scottish Government has increased the school clothing grant to a minimum of £100 in all local authorities, starting in time for the 2018-19 academic year. Around 120,000 children are expected to benefit, including more than 3,500 across North Ayrshire, with eligibility decided at a local level.

The school clothing grant in North Ayrshire is currently only £40, having previously been cut from £50 by the Labour administration.

Annual costs for the change will be about £12 million which will be split between the Scottish Government and individual councils.

Ministers will review the amount every two years to ensure it remains in line with the cost of living.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson said:

“I warmly welcome this decision and thank NAC’s SNP Group and SNP councillors across Scotland who took this matter to Scottish Ministers to secure this positive announcement.

“This both ends the postcode lottery in the amount awarded in school clothing grants and helps 120,000 of Scotland’s most disadvantaged children."

ENDS

The NHS in North Ayrshire and Arran is set to benefit from a share of a £50 million Scotland-wide investment to help deliver swift treatment and diagnostics.

This extra funding is part of a package of measures to reduce waiting times. It will also fund two independent diagnostic leads who will improve co-ordination across the country.

Scotland already invests more per head of population than anywhere else in the UK.

Tory-led England and Labour-led Wales continue to lag behind Scotland, including on accident and emergency (A & E) waiting times, where Scotland has had the lowest waiting times for over three years.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“The staff of Scotland’s NHS do a tremendous job day in day out. This funding boost will support a package of measures to deliver further improvements.

“The SNP Government is already committed to investing an extra £2,000 million above inflation by the end of this parliament – the highest funding commitment of any party at the last election – and we already invest more in our NHS per head of population than anywhere else in the UK. That’s one of the reasons why Scotland’s A&E’s continue to have the best performance of anywhere in the UK for the last three years.”

Measures to improve NHS performance:

ENDS

The Sustainable Growth Commission will set out a “Come to Scotland” package as one of its key recommendations for growing the economy, by incentivising inward investment and driving population growth.

The proposal, tailor-made for Scotland’s social and economic needs, is in contrast to the UK Tory Government’s hostile approach to migration, which presents significant barriers to attracting the talent and investment that Scotland’s economy needs to reach its potential.

Demographic trends mean that the need to boost population is more pressing for Scotland than for the rest of the UK, something made even more urgent by Brexit and the difficulties it poses when attracting skilled workers.

A Come to Scotland package would be specifically geared to increase the inflow of investors, entrepreneurs, highly-skilled workers and students. It would add significant value on top of the net tax contribution of £1,300 million the 429,000 residents of Scotland, born outside the UK, already make to Scotland’s economy. Policies to boost the population should also focus on returning Scots and people from the rest of the UK who wish to bring their skills and talents to Scotland.

The package is central to the first of “3 Ps” which underpin the Sustainable Growth Commission’s report – population, participation and productivity – and its recommendations to raise the potential and performance of the Scottish economy. The proposals include:

Exploring “transition relief” for highly skilled workers to offset defined costs associated with moving to Scotland against income tax, to attract the best and brightest talent.

Aiming to retain an additional 5,000 international graduates each year to deliver an economic boost of £1.5 billion per year within a decade.

Reducing costs, lowering investment thresholds and supporting entrepreneurs.

A new visa system benchmarked on the most efficient and easy to use in the world.

Sustainable Growth Commission Chair Andrew Wilson said:

“We have a great opportunity for Scotland to strike a completely different tone on a vitally important area of economic policy – how we attract talent to our country.

“For the next 25 years all of Scotland’s projected population growth is expected to come from migration. Under current UK policy there is a real danger that the working population in Scotland could fall, meaning fewer people creating wealth, jobs and contributing to our NHS. Growing our working population and, through it, our economy is perhaps the greatest national challenge we have and is made even more urgent by Brexit and the threat it poses to our working age population. Scotland needs more migration to drive our economy forwards and we need to extend a friendly welcome to international talent.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“Our package is designed to attract people to Scotland to study and then to stay here, to build a career, and a fulfilling future for themselves. We need investors, entrepreneurs and a skilled workforce to achieve our potential.

“It is in Scotland’s best interests to grow our population sustainably, but we need the right powers and policies in place to allow that to happen. All parties need to recognise that and to act in the best interests of Scotland’s economy and our society.”

ENDS

In advance of publication of the Sustainable Growth Commission’s report on 25 May, this briefing previews its core finding that an independent Scotland could deliver a Scottish Economic Renaissance, emulating the world’s best performing advanced economies.

Highlighting the strengths of Scotland’s economic assets and advantages, in terms of natural resources, the education and skills of people living in Scotland and sectors with existing and potential global competitiveness, the Commission identify ways in which Scotland can match the success of other countries using powers available now and with independence.

The advanced economies considered by the Commission were:

Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Sweden and Switzerland, with a specific focus on Denmark, Finland and New Zealand.

Such economies have performed better than larger ones consistently by around 0.7% per year over the last 25 years. The report concludes that similar success would deliver additional economic output equivalent to an extra £4,100 per person in Scotland per year.

Small advanced nations share of the growing global economy has remained steady; competitive even against large emerging markets, while the share of many large economies, including the UK, shrunk substantially. The Commission also found that:

* Small advanced economies have done well in terms of labour market performance, with relatively low unemployment compared to larger advanced economies.

* The gains from growth are broadly shared, notably those in Northern Europe, with low levels of income inequality.

* Small, competitively strong economies invest in key sectors and clusters, to help them develop positions of advantage in a more competitive and challenging global economy.

* The overall performance is significantly ahead of the UK and other large economies.

Overall, the Commission found that small countries have effective, responsive governments, with a well-developed sense of strategic capacity, high levels of trust and social cohesion, and the ability to adapt in response to changing international circumstances.

Based on this analysis and an assessment of Scotland’s economic strengths the report makes 30 growth recommendations which, if implemented, now and with the powers that would come with independence would help Scotland emulate the growth rates of comparable nations.

The Commission have used these recommendations to design a ‘Next generation economic model” to drive Scottish economic growth over the next 25 years and beyond.

A key lesson is that a sustainable improvement in living standards can be delivered over a generation of purposeful, cross partisan strategic effort and focus.

We require a mature and balanced debate that is ambitious and learns from the best in the world. However, there are aspects of our economy unique to Scotland

The 12 points below are the key lessons from across the nations studied by the Commission:

1. Quality of governance & disciplined public finances

2. Long-term cross partisan strategy

3. Focus on innovation

4. Competitive location for international investment

5. Exploiting Scotland’s resource endowment sustainably

6. Export-orientation

7. Migration-friendly

8. Flexible labour markets combined with fair & progressive workplace & active employment policies including reducing the gender pay gap

9. Highly skilled workforce with transferable skills

10. Taxation for economic development; not competing as low tax location

11. Inclusive growth at the heart of the strategy

12. Quality of life as an asset and objective

Commenting ahead publication, Sustainable Growth Commission Chair, Andrew Wilson, said:

“Learning from 12 successful nations, our report will present a framework that demonstrates how Scotland can emulate the best performing economies and societies in the world sustainably. Our sincere hope is that this can raise the content and quality of debate at a time such a focus is sorely needed.

“As a first step there must be an acceptance that small nations can be successful and that Scotland can be one of those, delivering higher standards of living and lower levels of inequality than many larger economies.

“There is nothing intrinsic in any of the best performing economies that Scotland does not have. To secure an improvement in our performance will take purposeful strategic effort for over a generation. We require world class policy, world class institutions and cross partisan effort if we are to achieve our ambition to create a much more successful economy and cohesive and fair society.”

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“This long-anticipated and very welcome report provides the most substantially considered economic policy proposals for Scotland and independence that have been produced to date, with challenge and opportunity for everyone with an interest in Scotland’s future.”

‘Scotland: the new case for optimism,’ the report by the Sustainable Growth Commission, will be published on Friday 25 May at: sustainablegrowthcommission.scot/

The Sustainable Growth Commission was established by the First Minister and Scottish National Party (SNP) leader, Nicola Sturgeon, in September 2016. Membership was at her invitation under the Chairmanship of Andrew Wilson. It has approached its remit through commissioned research, the insights and analysis of its members and through a series of meetings with economically important organisations across Scotland and from independently offered advice and analysis. Its members served pro-bono and its budget was entirely funded by the SNP.

The remit was to assess projections for Scotland’s economy and public finances, consider the implications for our economy and finances under different potential governance scenarios, and make recommendations for policy on:

* Measures to boost economic growth and improve Scotland's public finances – both now in the aftermath of the EU referendum and in the context of independence

* The potential for and best use of savings from UK programmes such as Trident, in the event of independence, such as Trident

* The range of transitional cost and benefits associated with independence and arrangements for dealing with future revenue windfalls, including future North Sea revenues

* In addition, the Commission took account of the 2013 Fiscal Commission report recommendations and the outcome of the EU referendum, to consider the most appropriate monetary policy to underpin a programme for sustainable growth in an independent Scotland.

ENDS

Scotland’s health boards and care providers will be required to have suitable staffing in place to ensure all patients receive safe, high quality care under new legislation.

The Health and Care (Staffing) (Scotland) Bill will place a legal requirement on NHS boards and care services to ensure appropriate numbers of suitably trained staff are in place, irrespective of where care is received. It will also build on Scotland’s innovative, evidence-based and profession-led approach to nursing and midwifery workload planning by facilitating the future development of this approach across health and care settings.

Health Secretary Shona Robison MSP said:

“We know there is a clear link between effective and sustainable staffing levels and high quality care. NHS staffing has increased to a record high under this SNP Government, but it’s vital we have the right staff in the right place, with the right skills, long into the future. This legislation will work in practice by ensuring staffing decisions take account of the needs of service users and staff supported by available evidence. It will also promote openness and transparency about the basis of staffing decisions.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP commented:

“Scotland has led the UK in the development and use of ground-breaking evidence based approach to nursing and midwifery workload and workforce planning. Now, with the publication of this legislation, we take a further important step by creating a framework across health and care services to allow us to build on this approach wherever care is delivered.”

The Health and Care (Staffing) (Scotland) Bill will also enable consideration of service delivery models to ensure Scotland’s health and social care services meet the needs of the people they serve, creating a culture where patients feel confident in the care they receive and staff feel supported and able to raise any concerns they have.

ENDS

With legislation set to be ‘toughest in the world,’ Scotland will become one of the first countries to achieve a 100% reduction in carbon emissions, Climate Change Secretary Roseanna Cunningham MSP has said.

The new Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill sets a target of a 90% reduction by 2050, which the UK Committee on Climate Change (UK CCC) states is currently “at the limit of feasibility.” The draft Bill set out shows that the SNP Government intends to go further still and achieve a 100% reduction in emissions, known as ‘net-zero’, as soon as technically possible.

Ministers will be legally required to keep the net-zero target date under review by seeking expert advice every five years. The target date will become legally-binding, subject to the consent of the Scottish Parliament, as soon as there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate the date is credible and achievable.

The new Bill also includes the most ambitious interim targets in the world, as well as stretching annual targets for every year between now and 2050. This means action is needed now, across every sector of the Scottish economy. It will also require action by individuals, communities, businesses and government.

Ms Cunningham said:

“Our Climate Change Bill sets out our commitment to reduce emissions by 100% with ambitious interim targets which strengthen Scotland’s world-leading position on climate change.

“Our 90% target will be tougher even than the 100% goal set by a handful of other countries, because our legislation will set more demanding, legally-binding, annual targets covering every sector of our economy. By 2030, we will cut emissions by two-thirds and, unlike other nations, we will not use carbon offsetting, where other countries are paid to cut emissions for us, to achieve our goal.”

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“The fight against climate change is a moral responsibility. Scotland’s academic and engineering expertise, coupled with our outstanding natural resources, mean it is also an economic opportunity to innovate and become more globally competitive.

“Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our age and Scotland’s international leadership means our plans must be ambitious, credible and affordable, which is exactly what the new Climate Change Bill delivers.”

The Climate Change Bill is available to view here.

Scotland’s existing targets are for a 42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and an 80% reduction by 2050.

The new interim targets will be 56% by 2020, 66% by 2030, and 78% by 2040 and are set out on a dedicated website.

The Committee on Climate Change advice on the Climate Change Bill can be viewed here.

ENDS

Using low emission vehicles in major roads projects is a key example of how public sector procurement can support the SNP Government’s ambition to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032.

For the first time, Transport Scotland has stipulated the use of a number of electric and low-emission vehicles by its site monitoring team on a major road construction contract bringing benefits to the environment while lowering fuel costs for contractors and public sector fleets.

Following a visit to the A737 Dalry Bypass construction site, Minister for Transport and the Islands, Humza Yousaf MSP provided a video message and undertook a trip in one of the site’s low-emission vehicles and said:

“I am delighted to see the continued progress on the Dalry Bypass with work clearly visible across the route. This is a key improvement to the road network in the southwest of Scotland and it is encouraging to see the use of electric and low-emission vehicles here on site.

“We have committed to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032 and we continue our efforts to transform public sector fleets and rollout the use of electric and low-emission vehicles where possible on future road construction projects.”

The A737 Dalry Bypass is being constructed by Contractor Farrans Roadbridge Joint Venture and will deliver improved economic and employment opportunities through more reliable journey times for motorists and businesses along the length of the A737. In addition, the Dalry Bypass will help separate local and strategic traffic, leading to improved safety for both rural road users and communities. Completion is expected by the end of 2019.

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“I am delighted at the completion of the Blair Overbridge and commend Farrans Roadbridge on their level of professionalism and community engagement while they construct the Dalry Bypass. By keeping local residents informed, Community Engagement Officer Angela Newlands has minimised the inconvenience that came with the temporary closure of Blair Road and people appreciate that.

“The Transport Minister is keen to make electric vehicles as appealing and accessible as possible in Scotland. Only a few weeks ago he responded positively to my request to explore options to equip as many public service buildings as possible with charging points.

“The SNP Scottish Government always aims to lead by example and the use of electric vehicles by Transport Scotland attests to our innovative and forward-looking approach to sustainable transport.”

ENDS

Communities and charities with new ideas for tackling child poverty will be given the opportunity to bid for part of a new £7.5 million Innovation Fund.

Announced as part of the Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan, the fund, financed by the SNP Government and the Hunter Foundation, is now open for applications from communities, local charities, health boards and councils.

A panel with membership from across the sector will judge the applications, which will support new or existing projects that will help reduce child poverty.

Communities Secretary Angela Constance MSP said:

“We want to ensure the very best outcomes for children today, and generations to come. As a government, we are taking bold action through our Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan and we need to work together to make a difference.

“If actions to tackle poverty are working well in some communities, they can be shared elsewhere so more children and families can benefit. Government can’t end child poverty on our own, so partnerships are vital to make change happen.”

Sir Tom Hunter, chairman of the Hunter Foundation added:

“This is about engaging with local communities and people who can make a real difference. The fund’s priority is to meet the needs of families and carers and up to £100,000 per organisation can make a real difference. It is time Scotland changed the dynamic on poverty and set about leading the world in its eradication.”

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“The Innovation Fund will support both new and the expansion of existing approaches that will have an impact on reducing child poverty by 2030 in a way that helps families to remain out of poverty for a minimum three-year period and are viable and sustainable for the public and third sectors. I am keen that any organisation in North Ayrshire that can make a difference applies.”

Applications can be made online by clicking here.

A scrutiny panel from across the public, private and third sector will provide advice on applications, members of the panel will include:

Jim McCormick (Joseph Rowntree Foundation)Anna Fowlie (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations)Sarah Gadsden (Improvement Service)Gerry McLaughlin (NHS Scotland)Fraser McKinlay (Audit Scotland)

Applications will close at midnight on 29 June 2018 with awards being made, subject to final diligence and shortlisted interviews/project visits, no later than 17 August 2018.

ENDS

The SNP Government and Asthma UK are each contributing offering an innovation grant of £30,000 for research to improve the lives of people with asthma.

The funding will be used to explore novel applications of digital technology in asthma, which could significantly enhance the quality of health and care for people with the condition and addresses an area of unmet need that aligns with one or more the priorities set out by European Asthma Research and Innovation Partnership (EARIP).

The funding will be used over a period of up to 18 months to explore the use of digital technology to help patients. This could be linked to ‘smart inhalers’ or other devices of a similar nature.

Health Secretary Shona Robison MSP said:

“We are committed to providing the best-quality care and treatment for people living with asthma in Scotland.

“In partnership with the Asthma UK Centre for Applied Research at the University of Edinburgh we have already invested £300,000 in asthma research, and I’m really pleased to now invite applications for this innovation fund.

“Collaborative working like this is crucial to enhance research, develop treatments and find new ways to improve the lives of people living with asthma.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“In Scotland we have 368,000 people who suffer from asthma, including 72,000 children, and according to NHS Ayrshire & Arran, people here are at a significantly higher risk of being hospitalised due to the condition.

“While I have some reservations about digitalisation and automisation where it adversely impacts on employment, the administration of medication is a perfect example of where we can only benefit from such technology to manage conditions such as asthma.

“I wish all applicants good luck and am confident that the results will benefit asthma patients across North Ayrshire and Scotland in the future.”

Applications can be made between 21 May and 29 June via the Chief Scientist Office.

ENDS

The Tories are too "joyless" according to Ruth Davidson MSP, their leader in Scotland, who also said her party needs to be less "authoritarian".

Speaking alongside Michael Gove at the launch of new centre-right thinktank Onward, Davidson said: “Sometimes as Tories we just look a bit dour."

“We look a bit joyless, a bit authoritarian sometimes. We don’t get to win if we start hectoring the people we need to vote for us.”

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“It seems to me that Ms Davidson is more concerned about how her party ‘looks’ than the substance of what they do.

“Tory MPs from Scotland at Westminster sometimes embarrass their colleagues down south with their reactionary views, whilst the Tory Group at Holyrood is nothing but a cipher for their UK bosses.

“In the fiscal framework discussions in 2015/16 the Tories at Holyrood wanted us to accept a further cut of up to £7 billion over ten years on top of austerity. Last week their supine support for the UK Government would have stripped the Scottish Parliament of some of its powers. And week on week they decry the SNP Government in every area of policy from the NHS to policing, despite SNP Scotland doing much better than Tory England.

“Maybe the Tories would do better if they simply put Scotland first for a change. A forlorn hope!”

ENDS

Kenneth Gibson MSP met with staff from Bobath Scotland last week to discuss recent legislation that now entitles people in Scotland to communication equipment and the support to use it.

Around 1 in 4 people with Cerebral Palsy are unable to talk or have difficulty speaking, and need to use computers, tablets or other equipment to enable them to communicate.

Stephanie Fraser, Chief Executive at Bobath Scotland, said:

“Bobath Scotland is the national charity that provides therapy and support to children and adults across the country who are living with Cerebral Palsy. We are urging MSPs to ensure that forthcoming guidance on people’s entitlement to communication equipment and support is sufficiently detailed so that it really will lead to guaranteed and timely provision for all.”

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“Legislation has recently come into force that entitles people in Scotland to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) equipment, and the support required to use it. The legislation was passed as part of the Health (Tobacco, Nicotine etc. and Care) (Scotland) Act 2016 and commenced on 19 March 2018.

“It is important that children with Cerebral Palsy who cannot speak don’t have to wait for assessment for communication equipment, delivery of that equipment, and support to learn to use the equipment, so they can communicate to the best of their ability as soon as possible.”

Bobath Scotland was established in 1995. Bobath Scotland directly supports over 125 people with cerebral palsy and their families each year by;

Providing therapy and group activities from a specialist centre in Glasgow using the Bobath therapy concept. See www.bobathscotland.org.uk

Working with children and adults through outreach and home visits throughout Scotland

Helping the wider cerebral palsy community by providing information and support, enabling connections to be made between our service users, families, carers, professionals and services, and working with local and national decision makers to improve services.

Bobath Scotland manages the Cerebral Palsy Scotland website at:

This is a knowledge bank containing details on useful services in Scotland, equipment, therapy, and advice for parents, carers and for anyone living with cerebral palsy at any stage of their lives.

ENDS

PROGRESSIVE STAMP DUTY REPLACEMENT SET TO SUPPORT FIRST TIME BUYERS

The SNP continues to lead the way on making taxation fairer in Scotland, with progressive changes to the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT).

LBTT is a progressive replacement for Stamp Duty, with 90% of taxpayers better or no worse off than under UK Stamp Duty Land Tax when it was introduced.

Changes to LBTT announced in the Scottish Budget provide first time buyers with relief on homes costing up to £175,000, taking 80% of first time buyers out of LBTT altogether.

Legislative changes agreed on 17 May give retrospective effect to the amendments made to the initial LBTT Bill, helping clamp down on tax avoidance and giving those who have overpaid the chance to claim a repayment. Regulations were also laid to bring forward help for first time buyers, due to come into effect at the end of next month.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

"These progressive changes will make LBTT even fairer for taxpayers across Scotland. They will drive continuous improvement of this relatively new tax, help protect against tax avoidance and give people the chance to claim back what they might have overpaid.

"The SNP is leading the way on making taxation fairer across the country, having already made progressive reforms to income tax that will see the majority of taxpayers paying less this year than last, and less than in Tory-run England. These further reforms will help us to invest in public services and support the people who need it most."

ENDS

In response to a Written Question submitted by Kenneth Gibson MSP, Housing and Local Government Minister Kevin Stewart MSP confirmed that the SNP Government has allocated £14.165 million to North Ayrshire Council in Resource Planning Assumptions (RPA). This will help fund 158 new council houses this year.

RPAs provide councils with the financial certainty they need to implement plans to meet their housing priorities. Over the next three years 701 new council houses will be completed in North Ayrshire. To help deliver this, the SNP Government will allocate £15.003 million in 2019/20 and £16.007 million in 2020/21.

Since the SNP Government Council House Build Programme was introduced in April 2009, with the aim of incentivising local authorities to build new homes, 244 new council houses have already been built in North Ayrshire, with a total investment of £16.025 million from the SNP Government, an average grant of £65,676 per house.

Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“Everyone deserves to live in a safe, warm and affordable home, and that principal is central to the SNP Government’s drive to make this country fairer and more prosperous. After years of neglect under Labour, council housing is again being built across Scotland, providing modern, comfortable homes and creating and sustaining jobs here in North Ayrshire and throughout the country.

“Of course, between 2003 and 2007, the Labour/Lib Dem Coalition who were in power built only six council houses in Scotland. All in Shetland!

“By comparison, across Scotland, the SNP Government met its target of building 30,000 affordable homes by 2016 in October 2015.

“We have set ourselves a target of building a least 50,000 new affordable homes across Scotland during this 2016-2021 Parliament and this investment in North Ayrshire of £45,175 million over three years will help deliver on that commitment and improve the quality and quantity of housing stock for the people and communities of North Ayrshire.”

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The Stage 1 Report of the Planning (Scotland) Bill which the Local Government and Communities Committee, of which I am a member, has deliberated on in recent months, has now been released.

The Scottish Government introduced the Planning (Scotland) Bill on 04 December 2017. In the Policy Memorandum to the Bill, the Scottish Government explains that the Bill's provisions "will improve the system of development planning, give people a greater say in the future of their places and support delivery of planned developments."

The Bill also aims to update aspects of the Scottish town planning system, by amending legislation that governs the operation of the system - the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997.

The full report can be found here.

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The SNP Government has worked hard to improve Scotland’s economy; from encouraging more ambitious start-ups to provide the jobs of the future; investing in skills, innovation, research and development to boost productivity, employment and competitiveness. Continuing this progress, a new Scottish National Investment Bank has the potential to transform our economy and enable Scotland to thrive.

This development comes after the SNP Government’s Council of Economic Advisers identified the importance of ‘patient capital’ in supporting economic growth, where an investor makes a financial investment with no expectation of turning a quick profit. Instead, immediate returns are foregone in anticipation of more substantial returns down the road.

Scotland’s Economic Strategy sets out a clear approach, with a core determination to continue striving towards an inclusive, fair, prosperous, innovative country which is ready and willing to embrace the future. It acknowledges that the successful economies of tomorrow will be resource efficient, low carbon and harness the power of technology, and illustrates a bold and forward-looking vision of a future-proofed, high-tech, low carbon Scottish economy.

As such, the commitment to a National Investment Bank (NIB) was based on strong international evidence that such banks can lead to a strong, positive impact on investment, innovation and long-term economic growth. Germany’s KFW bank is perhaps the most famous example of how NIBs can provide the patient finance business needs to grow. It’s been vital to supporting the growth of Germany’s green energy sector and supports innovation, exports and construction.

NIBS have grown across Europe and since the financial crash, new NIBS have been established from Portugal to Latvia, evolving over time in line with country-specific developments and challenges. Working collaboratively with their governments and other public-sector institutions, many actively create and shape new markets and help rebalance domestic economies in the face of societal challenges.

Following a commitment made in the SNP Government’s 2017/18 Programme for Government, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP asked Benny Higgins, former Tesco Bank Chief Executive, to develop the case for Scotland having its own NIB. Along with an advisory group, Mr Higgins presented an implementation plan in February 2018; highlighting that the body would provide a “vision with the scope and scale to transform the Scottish economy.”

The SNP Government accepted the plans and recommendations on capitalisation included in this plan and is committed to investing £2,000 million over 10 years. That scale, which is both ambitious and achievable, will make a material difference to the supply of capital to Scotland’s economy and enable the bank to focus on investment not currently provided by the market.

Economy Secretary Keith Brown MSP reported last week that a Bill will be brought forward next year to establish and capitalise the bank, which would be set up as a public body independent of government, operating on a commercial basis, with a strong ethical focus. It will provide strategic and patient capital and finance major projects which support community regeneration, and investment in ideas, to help meet key economic, environment and social challenges; accelerating the transformation to a low carbon, high-tech, connected, globally competitive and inclusive economy.

To realise our ambitions for Scotland’s economy, innovative companies need access to a highly skilled and motivated workforce, with strategic, patient finance to grow, while the business environment must encourage young people to be our future entrepreneurs. We are at a critical juncture, with a once in a generation opportunity for Scotland to grasp the potential that comes from rapidly advancing technology. The Scottish National Investment Bank will be a cornerstone of Scotland’s economic architecture in realising these possibilities.

The implementation plan is available at: http://www.gov.scot/Publications/2018/02/5676.

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The Scottish Parliament has refused to consent to the EU Withdrawal Bill. Labour, the Greens and Lib Dems joined the SNP in an overwhelming rejection of the Withdrawal Bill, voting 93 to 30 against it as currently drafted, leaving the Tories isolated. The Scottish Parliament’s decision means the UK Government must now act to remove Clause 11 from the Bill or make further changes to secure Holyrood’s consent before the EU Withdrawal Bill is passed by Westminster. If not, the Tories will be breaking conventions that have governed 19 years of devolution, confirming that they cannot be trusted to respect the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish people. Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“The UK Government must respect the Scottish Parliament’s vote and ditch their power grab.” ENDS

The number of people unemployed in the first three months of 2018 was 118,000 - down from 124,000 in the previous three months - as wages rise.

Scotland's unemployment rate of 4.3% is down from 4.4% in the same quarter last year.

Scotland's Employability Minister Jamie Hepburn MSP said:

"The fall in unemployment is welcome news and shows that, despite challenging economic conditions facing us as a result of Brexit, our economy and jobs market remains strong.

"Our employment rate has increased over the year to 74.7%, with 2,630,000 people now in employment, the unemployment rate has decreased over the quarter and the year to 4.3% and Scotland's female employment rate has also increased to 71.1%.

"Once more, Scotland continues to outperform the UK on employment and unemployment rates for young people, with 55.6% in employment compared to 54.1% of young people across the UK."

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

"The fall in unemployment is great news. Nevertheless, we still have an unemployment rate that is too high, both in Ayrshire and in Scotland.

“Figures released today also show the first annual decrease in the UK’s total EU workforce since early 2010, and the largest year-on-year fall in EU nationals working in the UK since 1997. This trend is likely to continue and further emphasises the task we face in attracting talent from Europe and beyond, in an environment of increased uncertainty and global competition. Resolving these uncertainties will go a long way in providing confidence to the private sector and enable businesses to invest and tackle the challenges of the future.

“Ensuring people of all ages who are seeking work have the skills necessary to secure employment in a rapidly changing Scottish economy continues to be a priority for the SNP Government.”

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Experts from retail, the waste and chemical industries, the public sector and academia have joined a Scottish Government panel tackling plastic pollution.

The SNP Government has also appointed current Electoral Commissioner Dame Sue Bruce as chair of the Expert Panel on Environmental Charges and Other Measures, a group that will provide advice on dealing with disposable cups and plastic straws.

She will be joined by behavioural expert Professor Dame Theresa Marteau, economist Professor Liam Delaney, Mike Barry, the director of sustainable business at Marks & Spencer, Roger Kilburn from the biotech and chemical industry, Professor Margaret Bates from the waste industry and Professor Aileen McHarg who will bring legal expertise.

SEPA chief executive Terry A'Hearn, Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland and disability adviser Professor Kate Sang will also sit on the group. A 2050 Climate Group representative will provide a young person’s perspective.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said:

“Scotland has demonstrated leadership in tackling plastic pollution. We were the first country in the UK to commit to introducing a deposit return scheme and we are currently consulting on proposals to ban the manufacture and sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds, one of the items most commonly found on our beaches.

“But I want to go further, and the creation of our expert panel is an important step towards seriously addressing this issue in Scotland. The panel’s expertise and skills from across waste, legal, retail and public sectors as well providing a voice for young people and disabled people, will help us identify the bold actions we can take in Scotland to encourage long-term, sustainable changes in consumer and producer behaviour.”

Dame Sue Bruce said:

“I am very much looking forward to working with the Expert Panel in this important and fascinating work. Not one of us can have failed to be shocked by the coverage in recent months of the state of plastic pollution on our land and in our seas.

“While these might be global issues, action can be taken by all of us much closer to home. The panel will be asking questions about what we can do together in Scotland - as consumers, communities, producers, retailers and government – to radically change our attitudes and our use of single-use items.”

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A review into the £160 million in Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) funding owed by the Tory UK Government to Scottish hill farmers is to be delayed.

Despite agreeing to conduct a review following pressure from the SNP Government, the UK Government has written to Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing MSP informing him of the open ended delay.

Under the last CAP reform, the EU set out to redistribute direct payments more equally based on average Euros per hectare. The UK only qualified for a £190 million uplift because Scotland’s low payment rate per hectare, which brought the UK below the qualifying threshold. To date, the UK Government has only allocated around £30 million to Scotland, with the rest distributed across the UK, despite the money being earmarked by the EU for Scotland.

Mr Ewing said:

“This delay is completely unacceptable. Scottish hill farmers are owed £160 million, which the UK Government has repeatedly refused to deliver. I have been clear throughout that the money was earmarked for Scotland, and frankly should be delivered to Scotland.

“Our demand for the monies to be returned to Scotland is not against farmers in other parts of the UK. It is about setting a precedent for future agricultural funding within the UK.

“The lack of progress on this long-standing, unresolved issue is disappointing, particularly at a time when we are about to enter a range of complex and critical future funding discussions with the UK Government.

“Having already secured the review and agreed its independent chair, it is deeply frustrating to learn that the review is being kicked into the long grass.”

Kenneth Gibson added:

“As the Member State, the UK only qualified for an uplift because of Scotland, whose per hectare rate is only 45% of the EU average. England, Wales and Northern Ireland are all above the 90% qualifying threshold.

“Scotland is good enough to serve as the UK’s cash cow to bring in £190 million, but only receives £30 million. That is of course before these payments cease when we leave the EU, which 62% of Scots voted against. How does any of this make being part of the UK a good deal for Scottish farmers?

“This whole saga once again demonstrates the Tories’ cavalier attitude to both Scotland and the farming community it claims to hold so dear, whilst selling both out time and time again.”

ENDS

Channel 4 recently announced a new stage in its development, which it calls the ‘4 All the UK strategy.’ The objective is to move to a multi-site operating model, opening three new creative hubs in the Nations and Regions, home to 300 jobs.

One hub will be a new national headquarters to parallel its existing London base. Each hub will attract jobs, new career opportunities and a valuable commissioning presence to engage with talent.

Glasgow City Council Leader, Councillor Susan Aitken, has already launched a campaign to secure the new Channel 4 HQ. There will be stiff competition, particularly from Manchester, Birmingham and Cardiff.

Channel 4 is a publisher-broadcaster. Unlike the BBC and ITV Studios, it does not make its own programmes and
is reliant on ideas from independent production companies. In developing this business model, Channel 4 broke the mould in British television and pioneered the ‘commissioning editor system,’ which was already familiar in magazine publishing.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson MSP said:

“I wholeheartedly support Glasgow’s bid. It is the ideal location.

“Despite being the production city furthest from London, it is home to the biggest and most creatively diverse community of regional independent producers anywhere in the UK.

“There are more than 100 production and facilities companies in the Glasgow region. Raise the Roof and IWC Media are already two of the biggest volume suppliers of lifestyle shows to Channel 4 Firecrest – an indie that Channel 4 has supported with equity investment through its innovative Growth Fund – is one of its key suppliers to news and current affairs, and the recent psychological drama Kiss Me First used virtual-reality design produced by the Glasgow studio, Axis Animation.

“With increased opportunity there is no question that capacity, creativity and job creation will grow. Scotland already has a growing number of media companies with headquarters or substantial bases here. Channel 4’s new HQ will be a tremendous addition.”

Stuart Cosgrove, Chairman of the Channel 4 Glasgow Bid said:

“Our bid will be creative and different. It will answer familiar questions and pose new solutions.

“One area close to Channel 4’s heart but not well known to London decision-makers, is Glasgow’s new diversity. In 2001, Channel 4 broadcast a Glasgow-based film Gas Attack, directed by Scottish film-maker Kenny Glennan. It went on to win numerous awards, including the prestigious Michael Powell Award for Best British film. Gas Attack was tense, packed with ideas and is one of Channel 4’s riskiest and most prescient projects to date. It told a story about Glasgow’s diversity and Channel 4’s passion for edgy risk-taking. It was historic too. This was the first drama of the asylum-community era. Since 1999, Glasgow has been an approved Asylum Dispersal City and attracted new Scots from war-zones and famine areas.

“The city now has a sizeable community of Kurds, Iraqis, North Africans and Sri Lankans. The first generation of asylum-seekers that arrived as children are now in their twenties and thirties, and are in the main lifetime Channel 4 viewers. Television has been glacially slow to reflect those demographic changes and a deeper understanding of the changes that Glasgow has witnessed will be a powerful advantage when talking about one of Channel 4’s core values.”

ENDS

SNP Government investment of nearly £28 million in the software sector has contributed to a jobs boom in the industry, latest figures reveal.

The number of software enterprises registered in Scotland has increased by over 90% since the SNP came to power, from 3,805 in 2008 to 7,265 now, meaning there are now around 42,500 people employed in the software and electronic publishing sectors, following years of sustained support from the SNP Government.

The highly skilled tech sector jobs this investment supports helps Scotland’s economy adapt and develop to be fit for the challenges of an increasingly digital age. The SNP Government continues to invest to encourage more people, particularly women, into developing skills in Science, Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) necessary to support this burgeoning industry for decades to come.

Commenting, Kenneth Gibson said:

"These figures show the positive role taken by the SNP Government in supporting Scotland’s modern economy.

“Since the SNP came to power, we have seen a 90% increase in the number of software and electronic publishing firms registered in Scotland, in no small part thanks to SNP’s policies to support new, small businesses and investment in the sector.

“The SNP Government has invested nearly £28 million over the last five years, helping new firms get up and running and supporting those already leading the way, as well as publishing a ground-breaking STEM Strategy to help support this key sector and the 42,000 jobs it directly supports.

“This confirms the SNP Government’s commitment to developing and supporting Scotland’s new economy, now and in the future, developing the skills and expertise to build a strong, modern economy.”

ENDS

Minister for Housing and Local Government Kevin Stewart MSP, has announced the SNP Government’s decision to establish a £3.5 million energy efficiency fund.

The fund will be aimed at helping social housing landlords make their properties more energy efficient through decarbonisation. Local authorities and housing associations will be able to use the fund on projects that improve energy efficiency and decarbonise heating, for example when installing solar panels or air source heat pumps.

Announcing the fund ahead of a debate at Holyrood, Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP said:

“This funding reflects our commitment to tackling fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency.

“As well as assisting social landlords in decarbonising their heating, the Fund will also encourage innovative thinking and fresh ideas, and is open to expressions of interest from today.

“This is part of more than £5 million of additional funding to support the Energy Efficient Scotland: Transition Programme, which will continue to provide a mix of advice, grant and low cost loans to support property owners over the next two years.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP commented:

“Following the introduction of the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing in 2014, homes in the social rented sector are some of the most energy efficient in Scotland, with over 90% already achieving an Energy Performance Certificate rating at D or above.

“However, fuel poverty is still a real issue for families across North Ayrshire and I am pleased at the announcement of this new fund. Everybody should be able to live in an energy efficient home and be able to keep their bills as low as possible.

“The SNP Government launched a consultation on energy efficiency standards in social housing only last week. I encourage people across North Ayrshire to participate in the consultation and make their views known.

“The consultation runs until 27 and can be accessed via:

https://consult.gov.scot/better-homes-division/social-housing-post-2020/?_ga=2.39824165.704038678.1525959542-824142316.1525100431 .”

Funding will be available to Local Authority and Housing Association landlords across 2018/19 and 2019/20. The majority will be spent in the current financial year 2018/19.

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The SNP Government’s non-domestic (business) rate relief has saved North Ayrshire businesses £94 million in the seven years from 2009/10 to 2015/16.

In North Ayrshire, 2,917 properties paid no business rates at all over 2015/16 for example, because they were in in receipt of 100% rates relief.

This figure excludes premises that may have qualified for new 100% reliefs introduced this year, including Day Nursery Relief and the Business Growth Accelerator.

The SNP Government offers the most competitive business rates relief package in the UK worth an estimated record £720 million across Scotland in 2018/19.

As of 01 April 2018 over 251,000 properties were on the valuation roll, which means the package delivers an average saving of around £2,860 per property this year alone. However, as not all properties receive relief, the average saving for those properties that are in receipt of relief will be considerably higher than £2,860.

Kenneth Gibson MSP, who elicited the figures from parliamentary questions, commented:

“It is great to see 2,917 businesses across North Ayrshire benefitting from rates relief in 2016, a figure that will rise with the new measures introduced in this year’s budget.

“I am pleased that the number of properties receiving rates relief through the SNP’s Small Business Bonus Scheme has increased by over 60% from 64,179 in 2008/09 to 103,701 in 2017/18. Likely reasons for this increase include expansion of the scheme and greater awareness of it

“Since coming to office, the SNP Government has taken strong action to support business growth and jobs in North Ayrshire and we will continue to do so.

“To find out whether your property is eligible and to apply, please visit:

https://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/business/business-rates/business-rates-relief.aspx”

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Kenneth Gibson MSP has welcomed the annual publication of Health Protection Scotland’s Healthcare Associated Infections report, saying:

“Since the SNP came to office 2007 we have achieved huge reductions in healthcare associated infections. At that time, too many people became infected and died because of hospital acquired infections. Addressing this was an early priority for the SNP Government.

“Cases of MRSA have fallen by 94% and cases of C.diff in patients aged 65 and over have declined by 88%, thanks to – among other factors – the improved use of antibiotics in both hospital and community settings.

“We are determined to drive forward further improvements. Containing resistance to antibiotics remains a key priority for the SNP Government. To assist in achieving this, an annual investment of more than £10 million helps fund cleaners, Infection Prevention and Control, and anti-microbial teams, who work hard to keep our healthcare facilities clean. The work the SNP Government does in this area is globally recognised, and we are working to ensure this continues.

“The publication of this report coincided with the World Health Organisation’s Global Hand Hygiene day on 05 May. Hand hygiene is vital in the healthcare sector and acts as the first line of defence against the spread of infections and I encourage everyone working in a healthcare environment to continue to be vigilant when it comes to this.”

A copy of the report can be found here

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North Ayrshire Council will benefit from extra funding to help cover the cost of road maintenance and make additional repairs to road surfaces, following the extended wintry weather.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay MSP took the decision to allocate an additional £10 million for all 32 councils. Details of the distribution were agreed with the Convention of Local Authorities (CoSLA).

Mr Mackay said:

“Scotland experienced unprecedented levels of extreme weather in recent months, culminating in the issuing of our first-ever Red Alert for snow by the Met Office in late February.

“The severe weather led to local authorities incurring unexpected additional costs to their maintenance budgets, and simultaneously caused more damage to Scotland’s road network.

“By assisting councils to keep our road networks safe and efficient, we’re not only improving conditions for road users, we’re also extending the life span of that network, benefiting the wider economy.”

Kenneth Gibson MSP added:

“During the severe weather Scotland experienced in February and March, North Ayrshire Council worked hard to ensure communities were safe; clearing roads and fixing potholes.

“I am pleased that the SNP Government has recognised the impact of the weather and provided councils with this additional funding. Of this, CoSLA has allocated £213,000 to North Ayrshire.”

Over the last five years, the amount per person spent on local authority managed roads was £657.71, compared to £436 in England.

Scotland’s expenditure on trunk roads was £621.46 per person, almost twice the £312 spent south of the border.

ENDS

Kenneth Gibson MSP is supporting thousands of women and girls across the UK who will walk together as part of a mass participatory artwork to celebrate the centenary of women’s suffrage on Sunday 10 June. To mark this historic moment, they will wear either green, white or violet scarves - the colours of the suffrage movement - appearing as a flowing river of colour as they walk through the city streets.

PROCESSIONS takes place in the four UK political capitals (Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff and London) in the afternoon on Sunday 10 June. To take part in this event, sign-up at: processions.co.uk

Commenting Kenneth said:

“I am delighted to support the women and girls from Cunninghame North and across Scotland who have already signed up to take part in PROCESSIONS to mark this historic anniversary when women first got the vote. I hope that many more will join them on Sunday 10 June to celebrate how much has been achieved for women, as well as to recognise how far there is still to go. I have no doubt that there will be a great atmosphere.”

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Commenting on monthly Accident and Emergency (A&E) performance figures published by the Information Services Division Scotland, Health Secretary Shona Robison MSP said:

“Early March saw Scotland experience the worst snowfall it has in years, with a red ‘do not travel’ warning issued for the first time. This had a significant impact on the delivery of services across the NHS, including A&E and is reflected in the figures for March. This level of disruption takes hospitals time to recover from.

“I want to again thank health and social care staff for their tremendous efforts during that period of bad weather and their ongoing commitment to deliver an optimal service.

“Scotland’s A&Es have outperformed those in the rest of the UK for three consecutive years, partly due to our focus on improving patient flow, ensuring that once people arrive into A&E, they can be admitted or transferred in a timely way.”

The level of patients attending increased by 12% in March compared to February and attendances in the year to March 2018 are the highest since records began.

Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:

“Despite ongoing pressures and horrendous weather, which made it difficult for staff to even get to work on some days, of 9,667 patients attending at A&E services in NHS Ayrshire & Arran during March, 90.8% were admitted to hospital, treated or discharged within four hours.

“I am delighted that the hard work, dedication, organisation and commitment of NHS Ayrshire & Arran staff has paid off; delivering a performance better than the Scottish average and that of the other three nations of the UK, to the benefit of patients and their families across Ayrshire.”

The figures of patients for March 2018 treated, discharged or admitted across the nations of the UK are:

Scotland 87.9%

England 76.4%

Northern Ireland 59.3%

Wales 69.7%

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