McMillan Welcomes SFA Boycott of Team GB

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Friday) welcomed the news that the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish football association's have agreed that they would have no involvement at all in the Olympics and a Team GB.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am pleased to see that the football associations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have once again categorically said no to a Team GB.

"From the very outset the footballing authorities in Scotland and the Tartan Army have been dead set against the enforcement of a Team GB on Scotland.

"I am pleased that to see that Scotland will have no part in this London lead initiative.

"Once again Gordon Brown has ignored the will of the people in Scotland and imposed his wishes, thus, creating a team which no one wants out with England.

McMillan Welcomes Scotland's First Dementia Strategy

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) welcomed the news from the Scottish Government that Scotland' first national dementia strategy is on the way, stepping up the drive towards better care for people living with dementia. Mr McMillan who will be giving a speech to the Alzheimer Scotland - 'Living positively with dementia' Conference in Inverclyde on Friday 5th June said;

"I am delighted to hear that a national strategy for dementia is to be introduced by the Scottish Government and will drive forward better care for people living with dementia.

"It's vital that dementia is recognized nationally and that Scotland's older people get the necessary care they need and require.

"This strategy will offer a range of measures to improve care for suffers of dementia which has to be welcomed by all parties.

"With Dementia Awareness Week running from 31st May to 7th June I am sure those campaigners who have championed the cause over the years will be pleased to see that action is being taken on this serious mental health issue.

"I look forward to speaking at the Alzheimer Scotland Conference in Inverclyde and hearing the views of the relevant stakeholders about the positive action taken by the Scottish Government.

McMillan Welcomes CashBack For Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed the opportunity for youth projects in Inverclyde to bid for a share of money seized from organised criminals.

The next round of funding for youth projects from the CashBack for Communities scheme will open in June and close at the end of October.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Youth projects in the area have already benefited from this aspect of the CashBack for Communities scheme. I am delighted there is another opportunity to give our young people the chance to try things that may never normally be available to them.

"The vast majority of our youngsters are well behaved and a credit to their communities but there are still too many getting involved in crime and antisocial behaviour.

"CashBack for Communities delivers on the Scottish Government’s ambitions for young people but it also benefits the wider community. Getting young people off street corners and involved in things like volunteering and offering them the chance to give something back to their communities is a great idea.

"Inverclyde has almost £16,000 to allocate from this scheme and I would urge any youth projects in the area to apply for funding by visiting http://www.blogger.com/www.youthlink.co.uk for more details".

McMillan Congratulates Real Community Heroes

A motion has been lodged in the Scottish Parliament by Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) congratulating the River Clyde Homes, Real Community Heroes.

Part of River Clyde Homes’s Up Close campaign, supported by the Greenock Telegraph, the people named as Inverclyde community heroes were selected for representing the spirit of Inverclyde.

Mr. McMillan said;

"These people who have been named as Real Community Heroes deserve their recognition for the selfless acts they have performed in order to make Inverclyde a better place.

"I am pleased to be able to congratulate everyone involved for bringing to the fore the positive aspects to Inverclyde.

"I hope the Up Close exhibition is successful and this campaign encourages more people of all ages to get involved in the community and take pride in the excellent community spirit so prevalent throughout Inverclyde".

McMillan Speaks in Influenza AH1N Debate

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday) spoken in a Scottish Government debate on Influenza AH1N, otherwise known as 'swine' flu'. Mr McMillan recently raised the issue in a Parliamentary question to the Health Secretary, Nicola Sturgeon MSP and was today contributing to a debate in the Scottish Parliament chamber on the issue.

Mr McMillan said;

"I felt it important to speak in the Influenza AH1N debate in the Scottish Parliament as there are currently 6 confirmed cases of swine flu in Greenock.

"As this forms part of the West of Scotland region and also where I live I felt it important to put on record my feelings about this issue.

"There are still people suffering in Greenock and throughout Scotland and I am pleased the Scottish Government has not opted to over or underplay any of the dangers surrounding swine flu.

"It's important that people remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions such as washing your hands regularly to prevent the spread of swine flu.

"The way the Inverclyde public, education staff, Inverclyde Council and all local health professionals have dealt with the situation has been highly commendable.

"This episode has shown both Greenock and the whole of Inverclyde at its very best."

McMillan Supports Veterans Travel Access

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed an announcement from the Scottish Government that the concessionary fares scheme which already covers older and disabled passengers has been extended to include Scotland wide access for forces veterans.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This is really good news and in such difficult economic times it is only right that the concessionary scheme be extended to our veterans in Inverclyde.

"The SNP Government has guaranteed all the rights to free or concessionary travel in place before the review - and extended the service further. This puts into context the misleading and, quite frankly, low political scaremongering by opposition parties who claimed the entire scheme was under threat.

"More people are travelling longer distances on Scotland’s buses at a lower cost, with the average Scot taking 100 bus journeys a year – more than their counterparts in other parts of the UK and travelling further with every journey.

"In contrast Labour has cut the concessionary fares scheme south of the border and spending is lagging behind Scotland.

"It’s now time to encourage even more people onto buses and public transport in Inverclyde to help Scotland hit our climate change targets".

McMillan Welcomes Funding Boost for Barony Chambers, Kirkintilloch

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday) welcomed the news that East Dunbartonshire Council is to receive £5,500
for essential repairs to Barony Chambers, Kirkintilloch. The Heritage Project is to benefit from grants announced by Culture Minister Michael Russell MSP.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted to hear the news that Barony Chambers, Kirkintilloch has been chosen to receive funding from Historic Scotland’s Building Repairs Grants.

"It's important that such a landmark building is brought back to former glories and recognised for the cultural significance that it plays in Kirkintilloch.

"I look forward to seeing the essential repair work being carried out which will show the Barony Chambers in all its splendour."

McMillan Comments on UK insurers Seeking to Overturn Asbestos Law

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Monday) commented on the move taken by UK insurers who are seeking to overturn a new Scottish law that allows people to claim for past exposure to asbestos. The Damages Act means Scots with pleural plaques can claim compensation - even though a House of Lords ruling prevents this in the rest of the UK.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am disappointed to see the UK insurers have taken their case to the Court of Session in Edinburgh seeking a judicial review of Scotland's legislation.

"The Bill has already been passed in the Scottish Parliament and gives a clear and unequivocal statement that sufferers must be compensated for the damaging exposure asbestos has caused them over the years. To go against the will of the Scottish Parliament like this is wrong.

"I hope the previous decision and the Damages Act will be upheld and that justice for pleural plaque sufferers will continue to be implemented when the Act comes fully in to force on 17 June".

McMillan Welcomes Delivery on Affordable Homes

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed today’s announcement by the independent Chief Statistician of Scotland that the number of affordable houses completed in Scotland last year has reached an eight year high.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This SNP Government has been committed in addressing the issue of social housing in Scotland. In these hard economic times the provision of over 6,000 affordable houses shows the SNP is serious about boosting jobs in the construction industry.

"And there’s more on the way, working with housing associations and local authorities the Scottish Government has already announced £17 million for councils to build 940 new council houses and support for 8,000 new affordable homes this financial year."The 336 council houses already built by the SNP Government compared to Labour's failure to invest in housing with only 6 council houses built in their four years of administration shows just who is really working for the people of Inverclyde.

"The SNP's positive action to support housing, particularly at this difficult time, is keeping the industry going and delivering a renaissance in council house building".

McMillan Receives Response to A78 Review Questions

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has received a response to his recent email to Transport Scotland from the Chief Executive David Middleton which indicates that the three month review of the A78 trunk road will take into account, 'any temporary or external influences such as school holidays or local diversions arising from works on the adjacent network'. Mr McMillan was passing on concerns raised by constituents who had contacted him stating that the review of the A78 must take into consideration the school holidays.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am pleased that Transport Scotland have listened to the concerns of my constituents who feel its vital that the three month review being carried out by Amey takes into consideration the upcoming school summer holidays.

"Many constituents have contacted me since I undertook my consultation of the Inverkip and Wemyss Bay villages to ask that I highlight the road safety issues on the A78 and that the review must take into consideration holidays.

"Therefore, I am glad the response I have received from Transport Scotland indicates that the survey data will take into account of any temporary influences such as school holidays."

McMillan Welcomes Further Info About Town Centre Regeneration Fund

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) welcomed further information published by the Scottish Government which offers questions and answers about the Town Centre Regeneration Fund and also a list of eligible towns which include Gourock and Greenock.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am pleased the Scottish Government has published further information about the Town Centre Regeneration Fund which gives a better insight into which towns are eligible to apply and how to proceed.

"It's important that bids come from Local Authorities, Community Planning Partnerships, Town Centre Management organisations, Business Improvement Districts, local Chambers of Commerce, Urban Regeneration Companies, Registered Social Landlords, businesses and third sector groups.
"This fund offers vital financial assistance for our town centres and I hope the relevant groups and organisations in Greenock and Gourock will submit bids.

McMillan Welcomes Economic Benefits of Energy

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) and Member of the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee has welcomed the publication of a report by the Scottish Government which shows the jobs potential from investment in the energy and renewables sector can make a significant contribution to Scotland's economic recovery.

Mr McMillan said;

"I believe Scotland has what it takes to lead the way in creating jobs in clean, green energy and the Scottish Government is driving this initiative forward.

"I was pleased to note that employment in the energy sector has risen dramatically and I hope this trend will continue.

"Investment in the energy and renewables sector will not only be beneficial to the Scottish climate but also offer much needed jobs during these difficult economic times."

McMillan Welcomes ASDA Move To Reduce Carrier Bag Use

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed supermarket chain ASDA's efforts to reduce carrier bag use, to meet the Scottish Government target of a 50 per cent reduction in their use. Mr McMillan was visiting the ASDA store in Bishopbriggs and met with Store Manager Steven Moyes to highlight the two week 'bag for life' giveaway.

Mr McMillan said;

"Stopping using plastic carrier bags is something which will all have to do, so the sooner we get into the habit the better.

"I am pleased that ASDA have taken on this campaign and launched their two week bag giveaway, which will raise awareness of the need to reduce our carrier bag waste.

"This campaign by ASDA will mean that many shoppers in Bishopbriggs and the surrounding area will have their 'bags for life' for free and can take them with them to the shops every time they go."

MSP and Councillor Welcome Environment Minister to Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday), along with ward Councillor Jim Grieve, welcomed the Environment Minister to Inverclyde. The Environment Minister, Roseanna Cunningham MSP was visiting Inverclyde on the request of Mr McMillan to witness first hand the areas which have been badly affected by flooding.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted the Environment Minister was able to visit Inverclyde and tour some of the areas which were badly affected by the floods which hit the in December 2008.

"I think the visit was an excellent opportunity for the Minister to see first hand the areas in Inverclyde which have been badly affected by flooding.

"I know the constituents of the east end of Greenock who responded to my consultation are anxious to see real action taken to improve flood defences and prevent scenes of last December from happening again.

"I would urge all relevant parties to play their part in finding solutions to Inverclyde's flooding problems sooner rather than later and I hope the Minister's visit will speed up this process."
Councillor Grieve said;

"I was pleased to meet the Minister and make my feelings known that the flooding issues in Inverclyde have to be addressed now.

"This has to be through all partners working together with Inverclyde Council in the lead as the statuary body.

"I believe to progress the regeneration of Inverclyde we have to deal with the flooding issues throughout all of Inverclyde or how can we promote this area for further investment, when a heavy rainfall causes everything to ground to a halt."

McMillan Welcomes NHS GG&C Meeting Cancer Target

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed the publication of the Cancer waiting time statistics for October to December 2008 which shows NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde (NHS GG&C) exceeding the national target for treating urgent referral within 62 days.

The figures show that NHS GG&C treated 95.3% of Cancer patients within the 62 days target.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I am delighted that these statistics show that NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde is exceeding the target of 95% in treating urgent referral within 62 days and performing above the national average."It is a testament to the excellent work done by the nurses and doctors in the hospitals and a major step forward in tackling one of the Scotland big three killers.

"We now need to continue and build upon this good work, which is why the Scottish Government announced in March £20 million for equipment to tackle cancer. These statistics and this investment show that the SNP is delivering on its promise for a healthier Scotland".

MSP and Councillor Welcome Choice of Name for Prison

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Monday) welcomed the news that the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) have decided against using the working title 'HMP Bishopbriggs' and have decided to name the new prison in East Dunbartonshire as 'HMP Low Moss'.

Mr McMillan said;

"This is a victory for common sense and for the people who have campaigned strongly against the working title of HMP Bishopbriggs.

"I was pleased to be able to meet with the Chief Executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) Mike Ewart, along with my colleagues Councillor Low and Councillor McNair, and discuss the concerns of both ourselves and our constituents with the working title.

"I felt the meeting with the decision makers was done in a constructive manner which allowed the councillors and myself to make our feelings known.

"I think this was the best way to represent our constituents and take their views forward rather than whipping up a storm as some other elected representatives felt was the best course of action."

Councillor Anne McNair said;

"At our meeting with SPS we had been assured that the prison service would listen to the views of the local community.

"This decision to confirm the name of the new prison as HMP Low Moss is extremely welcome and shows that the SPS are serious in their intentions to respond to local opinion.

"We look forward to further consultation and dialogue between SPS and the people of Bishopbriggs as the building of the new prison progresses."

McMillan Highlights Drug Campaign Success

Figures announced today highlighting a recent multi-media campaign urging Scots parents to discuss drugs with their children has prompted a near six-fold increase in visits to the 'Know the Score' website and a 41 per cent rise in calls to the helpline has been welcomed by Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland).

There were 25,779 visits to the website during the six-week campaign, compared to 4,365 over the same period in January and February.

The public made 784 calls to the helpline (0800 587 5879) during the campaign compared to 556 in the preceding six weeks.

Mr. McMillan said;

"These are encouraging figures from the Know the Score campaign. It has clearly assisted in raising awareness not just about exposure of many children to drugs but also about the availability of advice and support for those seeking to discuss the issue with them.

"The message is that if parents don't discuss drugs with their children, someone else will, and very often they'll be getting the wrong advice.

"We are well aware that drugs affect communities in Inverclyde and anything that can be done to help parents broach the issue with their children should be welcomed.

"While the formal media campaign has now ended, the Know the Score website and helpline remain in place and advisors stand ready to provide advice and information so parents have the confidence to talk to their children about drugs and the consequences of their use.

"I would urge anyone having difficulty raising the issue with their children to visit www.knowthescore.info or phone 0800 587 5879 for more information".

McMillan Concerned with Accidents on A78 Inverkip

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today made his concerns known about the road accidents which have occurred on the A78 Inverkip. The most recent road accident seen large tailbacks on the A78 when there was a crash, allegedly, involving two vehicles at Bridgend.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am concerned that there has been crashes on the A78 in recent weeks and this has lead to lengthy delays on the road for commuters.

"Alongside this, I have received correspondence from constituents who have informed me that it took emergency services around 10 minutes to arrive at the scene and the main A78 was closed in both directions for over 40 minutes.

"These accidents highlight why it is vital that the three month review being conducted by Amey find solutions to improve road safety.

"I have therefore written to the Chief Executive of Transport Scotland to highlight these accidents and to once again raise the concerns of my constituents about the A78 Inverkip."

McMillan Raises Swine Flu Question with Health Secretary

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) raised a question with the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing during a statement on the latest suspected and confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) otherwise known as 'Swine Flu'. Mr McMillan was one of a number of MSP's to raise questions with the Health Secretary.

Mr McMillan said;

"The recent confirmed cases of H1N1 in the Inverclyde area has caused a lot of concern amongst local residents, particularly those with young children who attend nurseries and schools.

"Everyone wants re-assurance and guidance regarding swine flu and I welcome the forthcoming approach taken by the Cabinet Secretary in her continued open dialogue with Members of the Scottish Parliament and the wider public.

"I therefore was keen to raise a question with the Health Secretary during her statement to Parliament this morning and I asked what affect the recent suspension of the Corporate Director for Education at Inverclyde Council would have on dealing with the issue of swine flu in Inverclyde.

"I know that the concerns I have raised on behalf of the people of Inverclyde will be taken onboard by the Health Secretary and passed on to her Department to help deal with the present situation."

McMillan Starts New Cross Party Group

The first meeting of the new Scottish Parliament Cross Party Group (CPG) on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism was convened by Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) on Wednesday 13 May.
The first CPG focussing on marine leisure has come about following Mr. McMillan’s member’s debate on the sailing and boating industry in Scotland in November 2008.

Following the first meeting Mr. McMillan said;

"I am delighted this cross party group has been established in the Parliament.

"There was undoubtedly the need for a voice in Parliament for the marine leisure industry which is estimated to contribute in excess of £250 million to the Scottish economy.

"There is vast scope for the cross party group to develop and we are looking forward to inviting guest speakers along to future meetings.

"Some of the issues we hope to address are the lack of skills and training, the shortage of infrastructure, and the tourism aspect of the industry.

"For the first time the recreational side has been consulted by the Scottish Government when it comes to the Sustainable Seas Taskforce and the current Marine Bill going through Parliament.

"I hope the cross party group is able to contribute further in maximising support for the industry through Parliamentary channels and I look forward to working with all members of the group".

McMillan Comments on Job Losses

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has commented on the job losses at TSC announced today (Wednesday) in Greenock.

Mr. McMillan said;

"It is with regret that I heard this news today and I feel for those who will no longer be employed by TSC.

"I have spoken to the Enterprise Minister, Jim Mather, today and he reassures me the Scottish Government are doing all in their power to help businesses through this tough recession. I will be writing to him again to seek further information as to the future of such employment in the wider Inverclyde area.

"The First Minister is due to meet with T Mobile and TSC bosses next week and I hope the meeting will be fruitful and provide new employment opportunities for people in Inverclyde".

McMillan Urges Community and Voluntary Groups to Apply for Funding

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP, West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday) urged community and voluntary organisation to apply for funding from The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The £10.2 million Strategic Funding Programme, will provide three-year project-based funding for community and voluntary sector organisations of up to £450,000.

Mr McMillan said;

"I would urge community and voluntary organisation in Inverclyde to look into the possibility of applying for funding of up to £450,000 from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

"The commission is keen to give financial support to groups and organisations who fund activity that directly serves and involves individuals and local communities.

"I note the commission have specific criteria for awarding funding, so I would urge those groups and organisations who are thinking of applying to firstly check out the EHRC website at www.equalityhumanrights.com for more information. Or attend one of the Scottish Grant surgeries at Glasgow on Thursday 28th May at City Halls or the Dundee surgery on Monday 1st June at Apex City Quay Hotel."

McMillan Celebrates Two Years of Delivery for Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has celebrated two years of delivery by the Scottish Government for Inverclyde.

With many initiatives being implemented over the past two years Mr. McMillan has highlighted some of the benefits constituents have seen being delivered by the Scottish Government for Inverclyde.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Many people said an SNP Government wouldn’t last but here we are two years later, the only Government delivering for Inverclyde.

"We have seen exceptional benefits in Inverclyde by continuing to freeze council tax, reduce prescription charges to £4 with a view to scrapping them in future, scraping business rates for small businesses and reducing them for medium sized businesses.

"For education the accelerated capital investment from the Scottish Government for the refurbishment of James Watt College meant it being completed earlier this year.

"The announcement of the West of Scotland Loan Fund to be created using the European Social Fund is also great news for Inverclyde and another example of the SNP Government focusing support on the areas that need it most during the recession.

"Housing in Inverclyde has been support by the rolling out of the Scottish Government Open Market Shared Equity Pilot boosting potential for first time buyers.

"We have a record number of police officers on our streets with over 200 more already out in the Strathclyde region. Add to this the £26,000 for Inverclyde to fund community safety initiatives I’m sure people in the area will agree the Scottish Government are providing the resources to make Scotland safer.

"The local economy and communities in Inverclyde have benefited from an SNP Government and I am confident the next two years and beyond will be equally as successful for Inverclyde".

MSP WELCOMES LATEST MOVES IN ASBESTOSIS COMPENSATION

West of Scotland MSP and supporter of Clydeside Action on Asbestos Stuart McMillan has welcomed the news that victims of the asbestos-related condition pleural plaques have won the right to be represented in the legal battle over the right to compensation.

Some of the biggest insurance companies are contesting the new law which gives the victims the right to seek damages. A move condemned by Mr McMillan when the insurance companies sought a judicial review over the Scottish Parliament's decision to support the Damages (Asbestos-related conditions) (Scotland) Act.

The Act ensures that an earlier House of Lords decision which could have prevented sufferers claiming compensation is not applicable in Scotland.

Commenting Mr McMillan said:

"I am pleased to hear the news that sufferers of asbestos related conditions will be able to represent themselves in their battle to obtain justice.

"It's important that all sufferers of asbestos related conditions have their voices heard and they receive the compensation they deserve.

"I am confident that compensation will be forthcoming and I look forward to the Act coming fully into force on 17 June 2009.

"Those who have pleural plaques are innocent victims of the damaging impact of asbestos and should not be punished for it.

"The Scottish Parliament took the democratic decision to pass this legislation and to ensure sufferers have access to compensation. In Scotland we have what it takes to ensure those who should be compensated for their injuries receive that compensation not to deprive people of legitimate compensation."

McMillan Welcomes Grants Approval for Affordable Housing

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Monday) welcomed the announcement that the Scottish Government will approve grants for a record breaking 8,100 affordable homes. The announcement follows quickly on the heels of the publication of the draft Housing Bill which offers a new direction for social housing in Scotland.

Mr McMillan said;

"It's vital that we see continued investment in social housing and that's why this announcement of grants for over 8,000 affordable homes should be welcomed by all.

"This announcement by the Housing and Communities Minister will mean 281 planned unit approvals for Inverclyde in 2009/10.

"This contrasts to the decline we saw under the previous Executive where only 6 council houses were built in the last three years of the previous Labour-led Executive.

"On a pro-rata basis Scotland is ahead of the game in the UK in providing new council houses.

"Affordable good quality housing is essential and I believe Scotland has what it takes to deliver better housing."

McMillan Highlights Opposition to Royal Mail Privatisation

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has welcomed a poll showing almost 70% opposition to controversial proposals to part-privatise Royal Mail and the threat it poses to jobs in the service. The UK-wide poll puts further pressure on the prime minister to back down on part-privatisation plans as some Labour MPs are set to sign a letter this week demanding Gordon Brown reconsider the move.

Mr. McMillan said;

"After a week that has shown Westminster to be completely out of touch, Gordon Brown must not ignore this poll which shows the public are overwhelmingly against privatisation of Royal Mail and the threat it poses to jobs."It is the future of Royal Mail and the jobs of postal workers that are crucial, not Gordon Brown’s political survival.

"Downing Street must see sense and ditch these foolish plans.

"As I said during the members debate in Parliament last Thursday privatisation would spell the beginning of the end for Royal Mail, and open the door to job losses, service cuts and a deterioration in the working conditions of postal workers.

"The privatisation of the Royal Mail could not happen at a worse time. When people in Inverclyde are facing redundancy and fearing for their jobs, the last thing they want is the Postal Service to be put it the hands of private partner whose only concern would be to make a profit.

"Royal Mail must remain in public hands and the SNP will continue to fight for the retention of the publicly-owned Royal Mail. It is not just Labour backbenchers who can vote against Brown on this, but voters in Inverclyde in the upcoming European elections too".

McMillan Comments on Swine Flu in Greenock

Responding to the reports of a probable case of swine flu in Greenock Stuart McMillan MSP said;

"Now that we have a probable case of swine flu in Inverclyde it brings the issue closer to home for us all.

"I would encourage people to be vigilant and follow the advice from the Scottish Government regarding personal hygiene standards, for example, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

"The Scottish Government are dealing with this admirably and are well prepared in the eventuality of a pandemic.

"If anyone in the area is worried they should contact the dedicated NHS 24 helpline in the first instance on 08454 24 24 24".

McMillan Condemns Labour Over Poverty Failure

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has hit out at Labour’s failure to tackle poverty while in Government.

Mr. McMillan condemned the Westminster Government for twelve wasted years following the publication of poverty and income equality figures detailing the number of children, working age adults and pensioners in low-income poverty.
The figures come from the Commons Treasury Select Committee Report on the Budget which noted its dismay that, despite repeated warnings, the UK Government will fail to meet its 2010-11 target by a significant margin.

Mr. McMillan said;

"These figures give evidence of Labour’s woeful inadequacy to tackle poverty, an issue which has blighted communities such as Inverclyde for years.

"Labour has single-handedly failed to close the gap between rich and poor created during the Thatcher years – so much so it is often difficult to tell the difference.

"Gordon Brown should hang his head in shame as banking bosses get multi-million pound rewards while pensioners in Inverclyde live below the bread-line.

"Even the Labour weighted Treasury Select Committee has expressed its dismay that, despite repeated warnings, the UK Government will fail to meet its poverty targets by a significant margin.

"No issue underlines more why Scotland must have full responsibility for all tax, spending and social welfare issues so that we can tackle the scourge of poverty.

"While the Labour Government in Westminster is forgetting people in Inverclyde the SNP Government in Scotland is doing everything it can with the powers that are available to it. Practical steps, like freezing the Council Tax, progressive abolition of prescription charges and the introduction of free school meals in the early years, are delivering.

"Scotland has what it takes to eradicate poverty but we are being held back by a tax and benefits system that is failing people in Inverclyde".

McMillan Welcomes Multi-million pound plan to build new homes in Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) welcomed the announcement by Inverclyde Council that it has given River Clyde Homes permission to build 636 new homes at a cost of £23.5 million. The funding has been made available from the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Investment Programme (AHIP).

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted to hear the announcement by Inverclyde Council that it has given River Clyde homes the green light to build 636 new homes in Inverclyde at a cost of some £23.5 million.

"This is the biggest social development in Inverclyde for around 40 years and I am hopeful it will deliver real change for the area.

"Alongside this, the jobs that will be created from such a large scale development will help the local economy during these difficult economic times.

"I look forward to seeing these new houses being built in Inverclyde."

McMillan Welcomes Scrapping of Tuition Fees For Overseas Exchange Programmes

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Wednesday) welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement that Scottish university students taking part in overseas exchange programmes are to receive full tuition fee support from next year.

Mr McMillan said;

"In these troubled economic times this is excellent news for students. These exchange programmes help create a self-confident, outward looking Scotland and by offering this financial help Scottish students can continue to reap the benefits.

"It's important that we continue to see an increase in the skills our people need in-order for Scotland to emerge strongly from the current economic problems and this announcement will help do that.

"Today's announcement is another addition to the Scottish Government's list of initiatives it has announced in the past six months to encourage and support international exchange programmes including funding for overseas work experience, support for the NUS to encourage students to take the benefits available from spending time overseas, and the expansion of the Fulbright scheme to build links with the US.

"I was delighted to have the opportunity to spend time studying abroad in France, Germany and Sweden, and I hope more Scottish students will also have the opportunity to see new cultures and develop new skills.

"Together we all have what it takes to get through this recession and this initiative is another element in helping Scottish students develop their skills and broaden their horizons."

McMillan Meets With T-Mobile Representatives

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Monday) met with senior representatives of T-Mobile at their offices in Greenock, Inverclyde to discuss the termination of the T-Mobile contract with TSC who currently provide around 118 call centre workers to T-Mobile in Greenock.

Mr McMillan said;

"I was pleased to be able to meet with senior representatives of T-Mobile to discuss current operations at their offices in Greenock. During the frank discussions I was able to raise my concerns regarding the termination of the call centre jobs contract with TSC and ask what support will be offered to those staff who are currently employed by TSC and provide call centre support for T-Mobile.

"I asked T-Mobile to offer additional support and training to those TSC employees who will lose their job when the contract with T-Mobile ends in the summer and was made aware that they would explore my suggestions.

"Alongside this, I was heartened to hear that some 60-80 new positions will be opening up at T-Mobile, Greenock in due course and those TSC employees who currently provide call centre support for T-Mobile will be able to apply for these positions.

"I fully recognise that T-Mobile is a large employer in the Inverclyde area and provide near to 1,000 jobs.

"However, its important that everything is done to help those call centre workers who will lose their jobs when the TSC contract ends and this is why I felt it important to meet T-Mobile as soon as possible."