It’s been a busy wee while in the Parliament – the clock is ticking down on the session, with dissolution scheduled for March next year.
That still feels a while away, but in terms of getting bills over the line before they fall with MSPs returning to the polls, it’s not long at all. That’s meant a lot of legislation is coming all at once, with final decisions due on a number of bills that we’ve been taking evidence on, debating, and making changes to over for the last few years.
John Swinney has also been clear that he wants to deliver in the time that’s left – on things that were promised in 2021, things that the people of Scotland need due to the cost of living and other changes, and things that government’s just expected to do routinely – like replacing infrastructure.
I was glad to get confirmation from Fiona Hyslop this month that the Scottish Government has accepted the business case for two new freight ferries for the Northern Isles routes, and procurement will now move ahead for these vessels.
The difference that greater capacity – and newer boats – can make for the islands doesn’t need reiterated, but I hope that islanders recognise the impact of their input into the process so far, with the freight flex option responding to feedback and providing space for up to 200 passengers at peak times.
We expect the contract to be awarded early next year – but if anyone has any concerns in the meantime, I am here to help and in regular contact with the Scottish Government to raise issues and get answers for folk.
Speaking of ferries, I am really looking forward to getting out and about over Summer Recess – this time that MSPs get away from Edinburgh is all the more important when you represent over half the country’s landmass.
I plan, as always, to get around as much of the region as possible, including our rural and island communities. The County Show is always a highlight of my diary, too – not only is it a great opportunity to enjoy some local food and entertainment, it’s a good day for catching lots of different people organisations, from ORSAS to farmers, all in one place. So, Kirkwall that weekend was naturally one of the first confirmed locations in my diary.
I will shortly advertise my surgeries and look forward to meeting with constituents on a range of issues and doing what I can to help.
However, you never have to wait for a surgery to raise an issue – these simply reflect the areas I’ll be in for meetings and visits, or because someone reached out to ask for a face-to-face chat. They can be added to and changed if necessary, and I am more than happy to deal with cases in the way that works best for you.
To get assistance or discuss an issue, please contact me at any time using 01463 563036 or emma.roddick.msp@parliament.scot
This is a regular column by SNP MSP Emma Roddick. All Highlands and Islands MSPs have been given the same space in The Orkney News to share their personal views.