McMillan Welcomes Accelerated Housing Funding in East Dunbartonshire

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed the announcement from the Scottish Government that they are to take 'decisive action' in East Dunbartonshire to help the
construction industry tackle current economic challenges.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP revealed that accelerated investment of £9 million will finance a string of housing developments across Scotland. The funding will allow housing associations to purchase unsold stock from the private sector, increasing the availability of much needed affordable housing.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This is a very welcome announcement from the Scottish Government to help off-set the problems facing many in the housing markets during this turbulent time.

"With this extra support being made available in East Dunbartonshire to fund land purchases by housing associations, the future of the industry is looking more positive.

"I believe this will give the construction industry a much needed boost and will hopefully signal a revival for the housing market.

"This is exactly the kind of decisive action from the SNP Government that is needed to assist Scots during these tough economic times".

Notes:
· The Scottish Government news release can be found here:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/11/27093753

McMillan Responds to MSP's Prison Claims

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today hit back at reported claims by David Whitton MSP that the Scottish Government is delaying a new 700-cell prison on the outskirts of Bishopbriggs.

Mr McMillan said;

"I was somewhat taken aback by the reported comments by Mr Whitton MSP in connection with the new prison to be built on the outskirts of Bishopbriggs.

"I would like to point out that it was the previous Executive who closed down the Low Moss Prison without even having a replacement prison in the pipeline. This resulted in other prisons, who took the prisoners from Low Moss, having to adapt to find space.

"This was unnecessary and highlighted the lack of vision and forward planning by the previous Executive. If the previous Executive weren't so incompetent with their justice policies then the Scottish Government wouldn't be in the mess they inherited over the Low Moss saga.

"There will be a new prison, it will be built using public money and not under the discredited PPP/PFI scheme. I'm sure even Mr Whitton can welcome that."

McMillan Urges Carers Across West of Scotland to Find Out About Support

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has added his support to a national carers' rights campaign which takes place on Friday 5th December 2008.

There are over 600,000 carers in Scotland who provide care support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £7.6 billion each year. The Carers Rights Day campaign, run by Carers Scotland, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carers' rights and the support that they may be entitled to. It might be the Carers' Allowance, meals on wheels, council tax discount or practical support caring that makes a difference.

Carers Scotland urges carers to get in touch with its helpline, CarersLine (0808 808 7777) or to visit its website [1] (www.carerscotland.org) in order to find out more about carers' entitlements.

Mr McMillan said;

"It's a real concern that carers across the West of Scotland area may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers are fulfilling a vital role in society and without them the NHS and social care system would not be able to cope. It is essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need and do not live in poverty, risking their own health and future prospects."

'Carers Rights Day is all about raising awareness of the rights and entitlements of carers. Currently, around £70 million per year in carers' benefits go unclaimed. Carers need to get clear information on what they are entitled to and how to claim it."

Notes:
[1] Carers can order a free booklet called Looking after someone: a guide to carers' rights and benefits from Carers Scotland by visiting www.carerscotland.org

McMillan Leads Debate on Leisure Marine Industry

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) today has led on the first debate to take place in the Scottish Parliament on the issue of leisure marine industry.

Following a motion lodged in the Scottish Parliament Mr. McMillan secured a member’s debate on sailing and boating which was attended by the Minister for Sport Stewart Maxwell MSP and summed up for the Scottish Government by the Minister for Enterprise Jim Mather MSP.
During the debate Mr. McMillan said;

"This hopefully will be a starting point to first of all recognising the importance of the marine leisure industry and what it brings to Scotland’s economy, and secondly, highlight the growth potential that can have a positive impact upon the Scottish economy.

"As a West of Scotland MSP who has spent most of my life in Inverclyde, I see the river every day and know that the Clyde is still a working river, as well as a river for leisure.

"The leisure marine industry turnover in Scotland is £98.9m a year and further to that the economic benefit of recreational boating in Scotland is estimated to be in excess of £250m".
Following the debate Mr. McMillan said;

"I was delighted to secure this debate in order to highlight the importance of the leisure and marine and hope this will lead to a further boost for the economy.

"I was pleased to welcome so many members of the sailing community from the west of Scotland to the Parliament for the debate and look forward to continuing a positive professional relationship with them.

"It is about time the leisure marine industry gained the credit it so rightfully deserves for the benefits it brings to the local community and Scotland’s economy".

McMillan Welcomes Help For Families Across West of Scotland Facing Repossession

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news from the Scottish Government that they are to extend the range of legal advice and support available across Scotland to families facing home repossession.

The Scottish Government is to spend an additional £3 million over the next two years to provide more legal advice and representation for people facing repossession and other problems, such as debt.

The new money will be used to enhance existing services, such as the In-Court service that operates in Sheriff Courts, as well as services provided by local solicitors, advice agencies or solicitors employed by the Scottish Legal Aid Board.

Mr. McMillan said;

"It is becoming clear, as the full implications of the economic downturn begin to emerge, that people across the West of Scotland may face the very real prospect of repossession. It is important that everything which can be done is being done on behalf of those individuals who are facing financial difficulties.

"This move accompanies a range of actions, which combined will help protect those across the West of Scotland at risk from the trauma of repossession and economic hardship. These efforts demonstrate the continued determination of the Scottish government to do all that can be done in order to assist those at risk of losing their homes".

Notes -

Scottish Government release - http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/11/21114452

McMillan Welcomes Action to Scrap Council Tax

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed the results of the Scottish Government's consultation to scrap the unfair council tax with over half of all individual respondents supporting the SNP's proposals for a Local Income Tax as fairer than the Council Tax.The consultation responses also support the retention of council tax benefit monies in Scotland, and show the failure of Labour to put forward any suggestions on one of the dominant issues in Scottish politics.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The SNP is committed to scrapping the unfair council tax – a position which carries majority support in the Scottish Parliament – and replacing it with a fair local income tax based on the ability to pay.

"The results from this consultation show people and organisations across Scotland support the SNP's plans to make local taxation fairer.

"The SNP's proposals have won strong backing with the majority of respondents agreeing that council tax benefit money should be retained in Scotland, not put back in the pocket of the treasury.

"The Council tax is unfair and unpopular. Under Labour, council tax in Inverclyde rose by 57% in the decade to 2007. This proves the current council tax system is not viable for people here, especially given the current economic climate.

"This consultation shows there is real support for scrapping the council tax and introducing a local income tax based on ability to pay. It is now for parties across the Scottish Parliament to see sense and support scrapping the council tax".

Notes:

· The consultation responses and analysis are published at: www.scotland.gov.uk/afairertax

McMillan Encourages Schools Nominations

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) today encouraged people in Inverclyde to nominate their local schools for the Scottish Education Awards.

The Scottish Education Awards are a celebration of the good practice and innovative developments taking place in schools across the country.

The awards highlight best practice in Scottish classrooms, celebrate schools and acknowledge the dedicated individuals who devote their lives to helping young people fulfil their potential.

Mr. McMillan said;

"It takes commitment and enthusiasm from pupils and staff alike to make Scotland's schools the successful and positive learning environments that they are.

"We should all be proud of the many innovations and creative initiatives underway in our schools and I would love to see Inverclyde schools nominated.

"The Scottish Education Awards are about giving recognition where it's deserved and rewarding achievement and there is much to be recognised in Inverclyde..

"I’m also delighted there is to be a special Homecoming Scotland Award in 2009 recognising how schools are celebrating Scotland’s great contributions to the world".

Notes:

· Nominations for the Scottish Education Awards, sponsored by the Scottish Government, are open from today until Friday 27 February 2009.

· For further details and to make a nomination visit the Scottish Education Awards website.

Awards will be given across 17 categories:

One Scotland Active Citizenship Award
Learning Teach Scotland Ambition Award
Determined to Succeed Most Enterprising School Awards (three awards given - for Primary, Secondary and Special)
Determined to Succeed Best Enterprise Award
Quality Meat Scotland Health and Wellbeing Award
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Learning Award
Greener Scotland Award
Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Schools for All Award
International Schools Award
Daily Record Award for Education Supporter of the Year
Daily Record Award for Teacher of the Year
Daily Record Award for Headteacher of the Year
Daily Record Award for Probationer Teacher of the Year
Daily Record Award for Lifetime Achievement
Homecoming Scotland Award

The Homecoming Scotland Award has been introduced for 2009 - Scotland's Year of Homecoming. This award will recognise how schools and young people have explored and celebrated Scotland's great contributions to the world, including Scots who have emigrated around the world and played a part in the development and history of other countries.

McMillan Welcomes Shorter Waiting Times

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcome the news from the Scottish Government that hospital waiting times are to be slashed.

Over the past two years the number of patients waiting more that nine weeks for key tests fell dramatically from 10,638 to only two.

Following an announcement by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon that the current nine-weeks maximum for key diagnostic tests will be reduced by one-third to a maximum of six-weeks Stuart McMillan MSP said;

"This is fantastic news from the Scottish Government. Scotland has already seen a massive reduction in waiting times since the SNP took power in May last year and this further reduction will undoubtedly provide a better health service for the people of the West of Scotland.

"We have seen unprecedented success with the drop of those waiting for key tests over nine-weeks from over 10,000 down to only two people. The support from the Scottish Government by providing an additional £50 million of investment has been key to this success and one that should be welcomed universally.

"This further underlines the SNP’s commitment to making Scotland a healthier nation."

McMillan Highlights Youth Parliament Competition

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) today encouraged schools in Inverclyde to enter the national youth parliament competition.

The competition introduces people between the ages of 12 and 18 to devolved politics by researching political issues and staging mock debates.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I know there are many young people in Inverclyde who are interested in politics and those that are yet to become engaged. This competition opens up the world of political debating to all of them.

"The competition informs, educates and involves young people in important democratic processes and I would be delighted to see schools in Inverclyde taking part.

"I understand all secondary schools in the area have been contacted about this from the Citizenship Foundation who organise the competition and I would encourage any school considering it to take part.

"I would, of course, be happy to help schools in any way I can when preparing and staging their mock debates".

Notes:

· More information on the national youth parliament competition can be found at: http://www.citizenshipfoundation.org.uk/main/comps.php?32

McMillan Welcomes Inspiring Scotland 14:19 Fund

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) today welcomed the announcement that the Inspiring Scotland 14:19 Fund will benefit young people in Inverclyde.

The fund aims to invest £55 million throughout Scotland in the next 7 – 10 years with six projects in Inverclyde gaining financial and practical support.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I am delighted these charities are getting more assistance for their work with 14 to 19 year olds in Inverclyde.

"These young people often find it difficult to make the transition from school to whatever they choose to do next.

"The idea behind this fund is an excellent way of equipping our young people with the skills they need to reach their potential and afford them the opportunities they deserve.

"The investment in the fund from the Scottish Government, along with other benefactors, should be welcomed and show the commitment from them to creating a smarter Scotland".

Notes:

· Projects in Inverclyde benefiting from the Fund are: Action for Children Scotland, Enable Scotland, Parklea Association Branching Out Ltd, Street League, Tomorrow’s People and The Venture Trust.

· More information on the Inspiring Scotland 14:19 Fund can be found at: http://www.inspiringscotland.org.uk/

McMillan Welcomes New Energy Package to Help Fuel Poor

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) welcomed today’s announcement from the Scottish Government for a new Energy Assistance Package that will help the one million Scots designated as fuel poor.

The package which will be funded by £55.8 million a year – a 20% increase on existing fuel poverty budgets – aims to help increase incomes for the fuel poor, reduce their fuel bills and improve the energy efficiency of homes.

Mr. McMillan said;

"At a time when households in Inverclyde face rocketing fuel bills it is extremely welcome that the SNP Government is focussed on this issue and it shows its commitment to doing all that it can, within the powers that are available, to tackle fuel poverty.

"Today's announcements are a move from a well intentioned attempt by the last executive to a strategic and well organised approach by the current Government.

"This package – with a 20% increase in its budget – shows how we are focussed on creating a fairer and healthier Scotland under the SNP.

"This statement adds to the extra £10 million of funding for the free central heating programme this year and its expansion from next year to include young families who may be at risk of fuel poverty this winter.

"While the SNP Government is using its powers to tackle fuel poverty in Inverclyde, the UK Government must act to support people struggling to pay their bills this winter with an extra £100 for pensioners, a VAT holiday this winter to help all households with high prices and reduced VAT on all energy efficiency measures.

"Today's announcement shows the SNP is focussed on the needs of families and the vulnerable in Inverclyde this winter. Will Labour now do their part?"

MSP Welcomes School Meals Vote Which Is to Benefit Over 100,000 Pupils

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the vote in the Scottish Parliament's Education Committee which will allow free school meals to be extended to an estimated 118,000 pupils from 2010. The legislation to extend free school meals to all P1 to P3 children passed despite the failure of all opposition parties to support the proposals.

Mr McMillan said;

"With estimates showing 118,000 additional pupils will benefit from free school meals as a result of today's vote this is excellent news for Scotland's children.

"The failure of opposition parties to vote for today's legislation shows where their priorities really lie. The funding mechanism has already been provided by the Scottish Government through the Concordat agreement. Therefore, it appears to me that the opposition parties are neglecting the children of Scotland and taking the food from their mouths.

"With 90,000 children in poverty currently excluded from free school meals the SNP's actions will not only improve health but will take steps to tackle poverty across the country.

"As the pilot schemes showed free school meals are popular and successful with children, parents and teachers. Today's decision is an excellent step for Scotland's school pupils."

Notes:

1. The legislation passed by 3 for (SNP), 2 against (Con / LD) and 3 abstentions (Lab)

2. The text of the letter sent to all Committee members from the following organisations is below; Save the Children, Child Poverty Action Group, Unison, The Poverty Alliance, One Parent Families Scotland, Scottish Women's Committee, Association of Head Teachers and Deputes in Scotland, the Church and Society Council and the Scottish Local Government Forum against Poverty

Draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of
the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008

We are writing to urge you as a member of the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee to recommend that the draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008 be approved as moved in Committee this coming Wednesday 19th November.

Approving the Order is essential to allow local authorities to roll out provision of free school meals to all P1 to P3 pupils in their areas, a provision that we believe will make an important contribution to children's education, health and well being, as well as providing much needed relief to hard pressed family budgets.

Given the consensus that exists on the importance of nutrition to children's development we believe it would be a tragedy if a scheme which has boosted healthy school meal uptake so significantly was prevented from being rolled out by local authorities.

We would therefore be grateful for your reassurance that you will work to ensure that the Committee recommends the approval of the Order.

McMillan Welcomes Electrical Safety Council to Scotland

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) today welcomed the announcement that the charity Electrical Safety Council has set-up a dedicated office for Scotland.

The charity is committed to reducing deaths and injuries through electrical accidents both at home and at work. It provides guidance on electrical safety and promotes best practice, and aims to help reduce the 8000 house fires, electric shocks, accidents and injuries that occur each year as a result of faulty electrical appliances and installations.

Mr. McMillan said;

"It is great news that the Electrical Safety Council has set up a dedicated office in Scotland.

"This will provide a valuable source of information on electrical safety for people and businesses in Inverclyde and will help to reduce the number of unnecessary accidents that occur each year".

Notes:
· The Electrical Safety Council webpage can be found at: http://www.esc.org.uk/

MSP Welcomes National Helpline to Tackle Debt Problems

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that a national hotline is being promoted to help Scots facing debt problems in the economic downturn. ATM machines will carry adverts for the campaign by the Money Advice Trust, which will also feature on TV and online.

Mr McMillan said;

"The announcement of this helpline is an important step to help Scots tackle their debt problems and alleviate the pressure many are currently feeling with the credit crunch.

"I am pleased to see the Scottish Government is providing funding of £382,000 for the scheme and further highlights the positive work being undertaken by the Government to help Scots during these difficult times.

"I urge people who are struggling to keep on top of their finances to contact the helpline on 0808 808 4000. The advice given is free, confidential and independent."

McMillan Angered at Council's Incompetence on Applying for Health Funding

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today reacted angrily to the reported news that Inverclyde Council did not apply for Government funding allocated to local authorities for tackling health inequalities.

On the back of these reports Mr McMillan has tabled Freedom of Information questions to Inverclyde Council to get to the bottom of this debacle.

Mr McMillan said;

"I have today submitted a Freedom of Information request to get to the bottom of this in order to determine whether or not we have witnessed a cover-up as well as a cock up from the Council.
"I am extremely angered that Inverclyde Council did not apply for the funding made available by the Scottish Government to tackle health inequalities.

"This display of incompetence has meant the people of Inverclyde were to miss out in their share of vital funding which would have gone to tackle problems such as deprivation and substance abuse.

"Thankfully, the Scottish Government have agreed to meet representatives from Inverclyde Council to discuss the matter and hopefully to consider their late submission.
"The Council must hang their heads in shame on this matter. I am certain many constituents in Inverclyde will share my anger that Inverclyde Council has shown a lack of leadership over this situation which could prevent much needed support being brought to Inverclyde.

McMillan Welcomes Westminster U-turn with Post Office Card Account

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that the Post Office will retain the Post Office Card Account (POCA) contract to distribute benefits to 4.3m claimants. The decision is a victory for local people who have campaigned vigorously to keep POCA.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am glad to hear that common sense has prevailed and the Westminster Government has finally listened to people power who have campaigned tirelessly to keep the Post Office Card Account.

"The u-turn made by the Westminster Government is very much welcomed, however the lengthy delay has shown the Government to be completely incompetent and inept at listening to the people. Alongside this, the delay has caused much uncertainty and fear over the future of POCA.

"I have campaigned alongside sub-postmasters and constituents to retain POCA and strongly believe keeping the account will be beneficial to all.

"I hope this announcement will now allow the Post Office to expand their business and place members of the public at the heart of any future decisions taken regarding services."

McMillan Congratulates Clydeside Action on Asbestos - Public Campaign of the Year

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Friday 14th November) congratulated Clydeside Action on Asbestos who last night won the Public Campaign of the Year Award at the Herald Politician of the Year Award ceremony in Edinburgh. Clydeside Action were up against John Muir who has campaigned on the issue of knife crime after the tragic death of his son Damien and Tina McGeever who campaigned on the issue of cancer treatment drugs after the death of her husband Mr Gray.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted to hear the excellent news that Clydeside Action on Asbestos has won the Campaign of Year Award.

"This is an important recognition of all the hard work the group has done and continues to do on behalf of sufferers of asbestos related conditions including pleural plaques.

"I have worked alongside the group since my election in May 2007 and in my role as a member of the Justice Committee have read the Damages (Asbestos-related Conditions) Bill, which recently cleared the first hurdle in the Scottish Parliament debating chamber.

"I look forward to the day when the Bill is passed as legislation and all the hard work and dedication of Clydeside Action on Asbestos comes to fruition."

On the back of receiving the award Phyllis Craig of Clydeside Action on Asbestos said;

" Clydeside Action on Asbestos is honoured to receive such a prestigious award. This recognises all those who have been diagnosed with an Asbestos Related Disease, and all of the families who have lost a loved one to an asbestos condition.

"Special thanks must be attributed to the Herald for sponsoring the event; Thompsons Solicitors for all the legal advise and assistance provided to the charity in all of our campaigning activities; the media and press for covering each campaign so positively and of course to the MSP’s in particular, Stuart McMillan; Kenny MacAskill, Gil Paterson, Bill Kidd, Stewart Stevenson, Bill Butler, Des McNulty and all of the members of the Justice Committee.

"Clydeside Action on Asbestos would like to take the opportunity of expressing it’s gratitude to the Scottish Parliament for its continued efforts on behalf of all victims who suffer with an asbestos related disease."

MSP Welcomes Government Investment in Employment for Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that Inverclyde is to receive funding through the European Social Fund to help employment opportunities. The announcement was made yesterday (12th November) in the Scottish Parliament by the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, John Swinney MSP who indicated that Inverclyde is to receive a share of the £50 million investment. The money will be used to develop training and skills development – and, help more Scots get into, and progress through, the workforce.

Mr McMillan said;

"I welcome the recent announcement by the Cabinet Secretary for Finance that Inverclyde is to receive a share of the £50 million investment to help give more Scots the opportunity to get into employment.

"Its vital that the Government offer assistance to people who are desperate to get into work or back into the workforce. With this announcement the Scottish Government is highlighting their commitment to help assist the people of Scotland and give them the opportunity to develop their skills and employability.

"The current economic climate has made it difficult for Scots to pay their bills and stay up to date with mortgage payments. It's good to see the Scottish Government is on the side of people and is helping offer them employment opportunities and financial support to get through these tough times."

Notes

Scottish Government release

- http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/11/12160443

LABOUR SPIN IS NO GUARANTEE OF SFA's INDEPENDENCE

Commenting on a claim by Labour of "reassurance" from FIFA that a UK football team at the next Olympics would not affect the independence of the Scottish national squad, SNP MSP Stuart McMillan, a member of the Scottish Parliament's football team, pointed out that if that were the case then why did the SFA want nothing to do with the project.

Mr McMillan also highlighted comments by FIFA President Sepp Blatter where he said that such a team would put the position of the independent UK associations into question.

On 9th March 2008 Sepp Blatter said:

"If you start to put together a combined team for the Olympic Games, the question will automatically come up that there are four different associations so how can they play in one team.

"If this is the case then why the hell do they have four associations and four votes and their own vice-presidency?

"This will put into question all the privileges that the British associations have been given by the Congress in 1946."

Commenting Mr McMillan said:

"Football is Scotland's national sport and the people of Scotland take great pride in supporting their national team. Labour may say it is okay to have a single UK team but the people who should really be listened to are the SFA and the Tartan Army."

"This is not a guarantee that the independence of the SFA and the other three national associations in the UK will not be threatened by a single UK football Olympic team. It is not in the gift of officials but all members of FIFA who could take away the SFA's independence.

"As the remarks of Sepp Blatter make clear the very creation of such a team would only add weight to the arguments of those who seek to take away that independence. He has acknowledged that it would raise questions amongst other FIFA members who would ask why Scotland should have its own independent representation in world football.

"All the national supporters' associations in the UK oppose this plan and a majority of the football associations want nothing to do with it.

"Maybe Labour thinks they can pull the wool over people's eyes by suggesting Sepp Blatter has some absolute power to protect the independence of the UK national associations.

"However, as Mr Blatter's comments in March show, a GB football Olympic side would undermine and jeopardise the Scotland national team's existence."

Notes

1. Sepp Blatter 's comments from 9th March 2008 can be read at the following links:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/olympics/football/7286011.stm
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/scotland/Don39t-back-British-team-says.3858830.jp



2. A report showing the opposition of the SFA, Irish FA and Welsh Association is available here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7068231.stm



3. A joint press release by the Association of Tartan Army clubs (ATAC - Scotland), the Football Supporters Federation of England, the Football Supporters Federation Cymru and the Amalgamation of Official NI Fans Clubs opposing a single team is available here:
http://www.tartanarmyclubs.com/press_olympics.htm

McMillan Highlights Council's lack of support for Free School Meals

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today voiced his concerns that Inverclyde Council appears to be indicating they cannot implement the free school meals policy for primary school pupils in P1-3 in Inverclyde. This is on the back of a recent submission by Inverclyde Council to the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee in the Scottish Parliament.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am very disappointed to hear the statement by Inverclyde Council to the Education Committee that they feel they do not have the resources to implement the free school meals policy for pupils in P1-3.

"I do appreciate that Inverclyde Council provides free school meals for 29% of the pupils, nevertheless this leaves 61% of pupils without. The health record of Inverclyde is not ranked amongst the best in Scotland and I believe implementing the free school meals policy would better educate the pupils on healthy eating habits and provide them with a nutritious and healthy meal.

"In the 1970s Finland had an appalling health record and they introduced the policy of free school meals. Now Finland's health statistics far outweigh that of Scotland's.

"The funding mechanism has already been provided by the Scottish Government through the Concordat agreement. Therefore, it appears to me that Inverclyde Council is trying to pick a fight with the Scottish Government over the free school meals policy.

"I never thought Inverclyde Council would attempt to remove the food from the mouths of children, however this written submission seems to indicate this is the case."

McMillan Welcomes Cloch Road Decision

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that the Planning Appeal: Cloch Road, Gourock has been dismissed by the Reporter and that planning permission has been refused.

Mr McMillan was due to give evidence at the proceedings but was unable as it fell on a Parliamentary day and he had to be available to vote in Edinburgh. However, Mr McMillan did submit a statement of case which detailed his objections to the proposals.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am pleased to hear the news that the planning appeal has been dismissed by the Reporter.

"I was able to submit a statement which argued that the appeal should be rejected due to in part the scale of the development. There would have been a negative visual impact and more importantly the increased traffic due to the proposal going forward would have exacerbated the road problems at Cloch Road, particularly at peak times.

"Alongside this, there has been a lack of development in Gourock for many years. I believe other development in Gourock is more urgently required as Gourock has been the forgotten town in Inverclyde for regeneration."

McMillan Highlights Growing Concern for Post Office Card Account

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) is demanding that the Government come clean on their plans for the Post Office Card Account.

As part of a nationwide campaign in support of the Post Office Card Account Mr. McMillan received numerous completed postcards stating their support for the card accounts from Post Office customers in Inverclyde.

There is huge concern among Postmasters and Customers that the loss of the Card Account could lead to 700 further closures in Scotland in addition to the recent round of closures.

It has recently been reported that the Government has decided to transfer the contract to PayPoint rather than stick with the Post Office but that they will not make an announcement yet.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The Post Office Card Account campaign has been well supported by constituents within Inverclyde.

"The fact that many residents have supported the campaign is a clear vote of confidence in local Post Offices, yet the Westminster Government seems intent on undermining the vital community service that the Post Office provides.

"The key point is that the Post Office is not just a business, it is a service at the heart of the community and the Government has to stop trying to squeeze it until it breaks.
"This constant undermining has to stop and a coherent policy of support for our Post Offices put in place".

Notes:

· The UK Government is currently tendering for provision of the service
currently offered by Post Office Card account.

· The UK Government was initially due to announce the results of the
tender over the summer, this was then delayed until October - it has still to be announced.
· George Thomson, Secretary of the Federation of Subpostmasters (Mail on Sunday)

"It makes no sense for the Prime Minister to say he wants to help small business through the financial recession that is about to engulf the country and at the same time take away a contract that helps 12,000
Post Offices survive".

McMillan Congratulates Inverclyde Talking Newspaper

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating Inverclyde Talking Newspaper on their 30th anniversary next April.

Mr. McMillan also recently handed over a £100 cheque to the organisation following an interview he took part in.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The hard work and dedication of the team deserves to be recognised. Many of the members have been involved since day one and have contributed to enriching the lives of the visually impaired community in Inverclyde for a long time.

"I was delighted to hand over the cheque for the interview I undertook with IPSOS MORI in Parliament to the Talking Newspaper. The commitment and enthusiasm from the people I met when handing over the cheque struck a chord with me.

"I hope the Talking Newspaper goes on for a lot longer and enjoys their 30th anniversary celebrations next year".

· Text of Stuart McMillan MSP’s motion:

Short Title: 30 Years of Inverclyde Talking Newspaper

S3M-02838 Stuart McMillan (West of Scotland) (SNP): That the Parliament
congratulates Inverclyde Talking Newspaper on its 30 year anniversary in April 2009; notes that the talking newspaper has helped hundreds of people in Inverclyde with reading difficulties due to visual impairments; also notes the dedication of the Inverclyde Talking Newspaper team, which includes volunteers, to their many customers, and further notes that the Association of Scottish Talking Newspapers provides development of new talking newspapers, providing training and guidance.

MSP Welcomes Free Guided Tours of Scottish Parliament

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that from September 2009 guided tours are to be provided free of charge to visitors at the Scottish Parliament. By taking away this cost the Parliament will remove the only remaining regular aspect of public engagement which is not currently free of charge to visitors.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am pleased the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB) has decided to remove the barrier of cost for members of the public to visit and tour the Scottish Parliament building. This is after all the people's Parliament and it is only right that everyone has access.

"I know from experience that when I give tours of the Parliament to members of the public they are duly grateful and welcome the opportunity to witness first hand the building. Removing this cost further highlights the aims of the Scottish Parliament to be open and accessible to all members of the public and will enhance the transparency between voter and elected members of Parliament.

"I hope many more people will take the opportunity to visit the Parliament and see the architecture for themselves. I encourage constituents to contact the Parliament on 0131 348 5000; Textphone: 0131 558 7676. I would also be delighted for constituents to contact my office on 0141 889 9519 and I will try and arrange to meet them during their visit."

Notes:

The contact for members of the media is:

Natalie Walker: 0131 348 6245 RNID TypeTalk calls welcome
Email: Natalie.walker@scottish.parliament.uk

McMillan Welcomes Cashback for Community Funding

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today welcomed the news that organisation in Inverclyde are to receive cashback for community funding from the Scottish Government. The organisations which are to benefit from this funding are Inverclyde Council CLD, Inverclyde Council CLD Partnership, Arts Education Team, Inverclyde and 32nd Greenock and District Scout Group.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I am delighted to hear that numerous organisation in Inverclyde are to receive funding from the Scottish Government's Cashback for Communities scheme.

" The Cashback for Communities scheme allows the money to be invested in youth projects which will give our young people a purpose and direction in their lives.

"I am sure the money will be welcomed by all the organisation and it will play an important role in giving our young people more opportunities and of course something enjoyable for them to do."

NOTES:

1. The Justice Secretary announced in February a new #3 million grant scheme for youth projects to be funded from the proceeds of crime.

2. This strand of the Scottish Government's CashBack for Communities scheme will provide funding for projects which support young people involved, or at risk from violence, alcohol, drugs or antisocial behaviour as well as support for initiatives such as youth drop-in services and residential, environmental and outdoor activities.

3. For the benefit of local news editors, details of the successful projects in the first round of bidding can be found at: www.scotland.gov.uk/cashbackyouthlinkround1

4. If you want further details on the projects, please contact YouthLink Scotland on 0131-313-2488.

5. YouthLink Scotland will be running a second round application process to allow those organisations who did not have enough time to submit applications to round one the opportunity to do so. The deadline for the second round of applications has been agreed as Friday 29 August 2008. Application forms and guidance notes are available on YouthLink website. YouthLink Scotland will organise local surgeries for youth work organisations in each of the six Assessment Panel Areas throughout Scotland prior to the closing date for round two.

6. Applicants who have not secured an award in round one are strongly advised to attend one of the surgeries where advice and assistance will be available.

7. Only three local authority areas have exhausted their allocation of funding in round one, these being, Argyll & Bute, East Lothian and North Lanarkshire (distributing #295,000 between the three areas). Youth work organisations in these areas will not be eligible to apply in round two.