MSP for the Highlands and Islands Emma Roddick, SNP, has launched a new survey to hear what issues constituents across the region are concerned about.
With a fresh start for the SNP as a minority government in Holyrood, Emma is keen to hear from constituents directly about what their priorities and concerns are, to take them forward to Parliament on their behalf.
Speaking on the survey, Emma said:
“MSPs are elected to represent our constituents in Parliament and take forward issues that are important to them. That’s why I am launching this survey to hear from folk across the region about what is important to them.
“With the SNP now in a minority government and my recent appointment to the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee, there is an opportunity for new issues and policy ideas to be taken forward.
“I want to keep engaging regularly with constituents, and this is the next in a series of surveys and events I have planned to ensure folk across the Highlands and Islands are represented.
“I will continue to be a voice for constituents across the region, ensuring all areas are heard, and I hope folk from all corners of the Highlands and Islands will participate in this survey and let me know what is important to them.”
The results of the survey will be used to influence future work, including meetings, proposed amendments to legislation, and questions to the Scottish Government.
Commenting on the new Visitor Level and the issue of cruise liners not being included in the current scheme Emma Roddick said:
“I am delighted that the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill was passed in Parliament this week. While we welcome tourists to our islands, there has been a significant rise in cruise ships docking in our isles over the past few years, and local authorities are struggling to cover the costs.
“There needs to be a conversation about applying this levy to cruise ship passengers, too.
“Over 200,000 passengers docked in Orkney last year, and that number is expected to be even higher in 2024, which we know puts a strain on local services.
“Our island communities are not built for this level of tourism, and it presents a cost to the local authority and residents without always giving back to the local economy in the way that people staying in hotels do.
“We need to look at how visiting cruise ships can pay into the local area, knowing that most of the passengers themselves don’t tend to spend a lot of money in the local area, but contribute to cleaning and repair bills for Orkney Islands Council.”
Click on this link to take part in the survey : Emma Roddick MSP Survey