McMillan Makes Submission to Review of Admissions & Placing Requests Consultation

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Tuesday) made a submission to Inverclyde Council on their Review of Admissions and Placing Requests consultation.

Mr McMillan said;

"I felt it was important to make a submission to Inverclyde Council on their review of admissions and placing requests consultation after the problems witnesses with the ballot of pupils for Gourock High.

"I believe it’s important that there be only one coherent policy which is clearly highlighted to parents and pupils within the Inverclyde area.

"Alongside this, it’s important that ballots are removed from the policy as I believe these to be unfair and the cause of many problems when it comes to placing requests.

"I hope the Council will take onboard all suggestions raised and I look forward to hearing the outcome of the consultation."

McMillan Looking Forward to Celebrating Clydeside Action 25th Anniversary

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Tuesday) welcomed the upcoming celebration of Clydeside Action's 25th Anniversary which will take place on Friday 2nd October at Glasgow City Chambers. Mr McMillan will be attending the event where he will meet campaigners and representatives of Clydeside Action on Asbestos who he worked alongside in the passing of the Damages Asbestos Related Conditions (Scotland) Bill.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am looking forward to attending Clydeside Action's 25th Anniversary celebrations in Glasgow.

"Since my election in May 2007 I have worked alongside campaigners and representatives of Clydeside Action on Asbestos to make sure legislation is put in place to compensate people who suffer from pleural plaques.

"Therefore, the passing of the Damages Asbestos Related Conditions (Scotland) Bill on 11th March 2009 in the Scottish Parliament was an important milestone in the campaign for pleural plaque sufferers.

"It's important to recognise the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving the goal of passing the Damages Asbestos Related Conditions (Scotland) Bill in the Scottish Parliament and I am sure the 25th Anniversary of Clydeside Action on Asbestos will be a fitting occasion to mark the efforts of all those involved."

McMillan Highlights Alcohol Awareness Week

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Monday) welcomed the news that this year's ‘What’s in it for me?’ campaign will be tackling alcohol. The campaign’s Alcohol Awareness Week will be from 4-10 October 2009 and aims to increase awareness amongst Scots and demonstrate that making positive choices, changing drinking habits and drinking more responsibly will enable them to get more out of their day, week and weekend – at work, at home and with friends or family.

Now in its third year, Scotland’s Alcohol Awareness Week is going from strength to strength. Over the past two years, this innovative partnership between government, the alcohol industry, health professionals and the voluntary sector has been working together to promote a common responsible drinking message.

Mr McMillan said;

"Alcohol misuse has a major impact not only on health, but also on the creation of safer and stronger communities. Organisations across Scotland are signing up to support Alcohol Awareness Week, understanding that they can play a key role in promoting responsible drinking, whether that be to their staff, service users or customers.

""Now in its third year, Scotland's Alcohol Awareness Week is going from strength to strength. Over the past two years this innovative partnership between government, the alcohol industry, health professionals and the voluntary sector has been working together to promote a common responsible drinking message.

"This is why I felt it important to visit a convenience store in Inverclyde and highlight Alcohol Awareness Week.

"To find out more about what will be going on during Alcohol Awareness Week and who is involved visit the campaign website www.alcoholawarenessweek.com or call 0800 7 314 314."

McMillan Welcomes Government School Spending Pledge

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Monday) welcomed the news from the Scottish Government that new primary schools will be built in all local authorities throughout Scotland. The news comes on the back of an announcement by the Education Secretary that 14 new secondary schools will be built through a £1.25 billion programme.

Mr McMillan said;

"I welcome the announcement by the Scottish Government that they are to bring forward the building of new primary schools in all local authorities.

"This news highlights the continued commitment by the SNP Government to invest in our education system and in the future of Scotland.

"New school building will not just help our education system but support construction workers at a difficult time for the industry.

"I look forward to hearing the news of new primary school buildings for Inverclyde, which I am hopeful will be announced by the end of this year.

"Once again the Scottish Government has demonstrated it has got what it takes to make real invest in Scotland."

McMillan Visits Inverkip Power Station Site

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Friday) visited Inverkip Power Station site to see first hand the scale and size of the site and what Scottish Power are proposing in their outline application to Inverclyde Council. Mr McMillan has undertaken a consultation, in relation to the planning application submitted by Scottish Power to Inverclyde Council, after being contacted by constituents who are concerned that the proposals of developing some 780 properties on the site would potentially add a massive strain on the A78 road infrastructure.

Mr McMillan said;

"I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit Inverkip Power Station and see first hand the scale and size of the site.

"I would like to thank Scottish Power for accommodating my visit, which I felt was very useful and gave me more of an understanding as to what they are proposing to Inverclyde Council.
"I felt it was essential to visit the site after being contacted by a number of constituents who are concerned with the proposals being submitted.

"Those constituent concerns were evident in the consultation document I undertook within Inverkip and Wemyss Bay villages.

"Many constituents believe the development of some 780 properties on the site will only exacerbate the traffic issues on the nearby A78 road infrastructure and that any development of the site should include adequate leisure and recreational facilities.

"I will be highlighting my constituents concerns when I make a submission to Inverclyde Council on the outline application submitted by Scottish Power."

McMillan Welcomes Visit Scotland Support for Sail Scotland

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and member of the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee has expressed his delight at Visit Scotland’s financial support for Sail Scotland.

Mr. McMillan learned at this week’s (Wednesday 23rd) meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism (CPG) that Sail Scotland has received £65,000 from Visit Scotland to promote Scotland as a top sailing destination.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This is fantastic news and shows renewed support from Visit Scotland in the work of Sail Scotland.

"The money will enable Sail Scotland to promote Scotland as a top marine leisure destination as never before.

"Unfortunately, between 2005 and 2008 Visit Scotland were unable to provide financial assistance to Sail Scotland causing severe operational and financial problems for the organisation.
"As I pointed out during my member’s debate, the first of its kind in the Scottish Parliament, on the industry last November the marine sector has a nominal value of £250-300 million. So I am delighted we are seeing more support to promote this than ever before.

"The Cross Party Group is also showing great enthusiasm for exploring the potential of the industry and having spoken to the Director of Marine Scotland I know he is impressed that we have people from across the spectrum involved in the CPG.

"With sea angling, canoeing, youth sailing organisations, Sail Scotland, conservation projects and many more represented on the CPG I am certainly looking forward to taking the group forward and exploring the potential of the industry.

"We have support from Scottish Enterprise and Visit Scotland in the CPG and I look forward, as convener of the CPG, to welcoming the relevant Scottish Ministers to future meetings to hear their take on the industry.

"As the only Inverclyde based elected representative on the CPG I am also looking forward to seeing where we can go and what we can do with the Scottish Government with this CPG to assist local projects in Inverclyde".

Gordon Ritchie, Director of Marine marketing agency GMFCo said;"It is great that this marine industry group has been put on the political agenda for the first time. This market has had very little representation and is so valuable to the country, especially in these economic times, to have a voice and more importantly with an industry that has the potential to really grow and create so many positive things in Sport, health, jobs, leisure and tourism for Scotland.

"I left the first meeting really encouraged and enthused and what was as important, was that Stuart and the other cross party politicians listened and responded to the issues.

"I can say that this has great potential and seeing the kind the support for Sail Scotland and hearing the political vision is good positive news for everyone in the marine industry".

Note to Editor
· Membership of the CPG can be found here: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/msp/crossPartyGroups/groups/Boating.htm

· GMFCo has created five marine events in Scotland in the three months from August until October:-

- We have brought RYA power boat racing to Leith in Edinburgh and Quote "this was the busiest weekend they have had this year with record attending spectators spending with Local businesses".

- We managed the highly successful Kirkintilloch canal Festival involving local business and marine organisations

- We brought Zapcat Racing to Renfrewshire and had record numbers of families attend on The Saturday. Competitors alone booking over 80 rooms at local hotels

- We are in the process of organising The Tiree Wave Classic in it 24th year and the newly created Coll challenge involving both of the islands of Coll and Tiree. These events draw in competitors and spectators from all over the world and they are all highly complimentary about the beauty and the conditions for Windsurfing and sailing on these Islands.

McMillan Welcomes Scottish Government Rent Deposit Plan

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement of a national scheme to safeguard rent deposits and to protect tenants.

Mr. McMillan said;

"More often than not it is the most vulnerable tenants who are victims of unscrupulous landlords who withhold deposits, and this move by the Scottish Government will mean people in Inverclyde are treated fairly and promptly when their tenancy comes to an end.

"This sort of scheme should have been introduced decades ago but as usual Labour dragged their heels both north and south of the border.

"So I am delighted that the Scottish Government is taking action to crack down on rogue landlords and give tenants in Inverclyde the protection and peace of mind they deserve.

"Constituents have told me they often feel powerless when landlords unlawfully withhold their deposits, and this scheme will finally put an end to that".

Note to Editor
· The Scottish Government’s statement can be found here: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2009/09/24153008

· The tenancy deposits stakeholder group, established by the Scottish Government, includes representatives from the following organisations:

· Association of Residential Letting Agents
· Chartered Institute of Housing
· Citizens Advice Scotland
· Consumer Focus Scotland
· COSLA
· Crisis
· National Association of Estate Agents
· National Union of Students
· Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors
· Scottish Association of Landlords
· Scottish Council of Single Homeless
· Scottish Rural Property and Business Association
· Shelter Scotland

McMillan Urges Inverclyde Schools To Take Up Maps Offer

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) encouraged schools across Inverclyde to take up the Ordnance Survey's 'Free Maps for 11 Year Olds' scheme. The scheme, which has now been operating for 7 years offers a free OS Explorer map to every primary 7 pupil.
The online ordering facility at www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk

/freemapsfor11yearolds is open until the end of November.

Mr McMillan said;

"The 'Free Maps for 11 year Olds' is a great scheme which I hope many primary 7 pupils in Inverclyde will take up.

""Map reading skills are important as it can be an encouragement to children to take part in outdoor activities and introduces skills that can be used for travelling around in later life.

"Having an Ordnance Survey map puts further onus on children's development as they are encouraged to explore Scotland's outdoors."

MSP WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT'S COMMITMENT FOR SCOTLAND GAMES ON FREE TO AIR

SNP MSP Stuart McMillan has today (Wednesday) welcomed a statement from the Scottish Government's Culture Minister Mike Russell that Scotland's World Cup and European Championship football qualifiers would be shown free on TV in an independent Scotland.

The move was suggested as part of the Scottish Government's National Conversation on the country's constitutional future. The Scottish Government paper sets out possibilities for broadcasting under the present system, under more devolved powers and under full independence.

Mr McMillan has repeatedly raised this issue with the UK Department for Culture concerning what they call the sporting "crown jewels" pointing out research for the Scottish Broadcasting Commission which showed a majority of Scots support Scotland's international football matches being available on free to air television.

Speaking after the statement Mr McMillan said;

"I welcome this statement by the Minister. It shows how the Scottish sporting 'crown jewels' could be secured in an independent Scotland whilst, at present, we have to lobby for their status.

"For too many Scotland fans the option of watching the match at home with their family or friends is one they cannot afford.

"It is ridiculous that for many people the only way to watch Scotland's international games is to go to the pub - often leaving our young footballers of the future unable to see the match and putting pressure on parents already stretched budgets to sign up to satellite or cable stations.

"There is overwhelming public support for bringing Scotland games, particularly our home games in the European Championships and World Cup to Scotland's television screens.

"Last years study into Scottish broadcasting showed not only that 96% of football fans want coverage on free to air television, but 70% of those not interested in football believe there should be public access to the Scotland teams international adventures.

"This report has been a prime opportunity to press that case and I welcome its findings."

McMillan Writes to Transport Scotland About Inverkip Review Document

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Tuesday) written to Transport Scotland to acknowledge receipt of the A78 Inverkip Review of Junctions document, which was produced by Amey under the instruction of Transport Scotland, and to seek a further meeting with the organisation to discuss the findings. The document was produced on the back of Mr McMillan's consultation to all Inverkip residents which produced a 41% response rate.

Mr McMillan said;

"While I am pleased that Amey have undertaken a review of the Inverkip junction, after the weight of feeling shown in the local consultation I undertook with residents, I am disappointed that they are recommending the cheap option of addressing the line and road markings, rather than taking drastic action which is required.

"I believe the huge level of response I received to the consultation I undertook with Inverkip residents highlighted their strong feelings that drastic action must be taken on the A78 to improve road safety.

"I have since written to Transport Scotland to seek a further meeting to discuss the document and how to take the campaign forward for real improvements to road safety on the A78."

McMillan Welcomes New Funding for Safer Communities in Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Tuesday) welcomed the news that all Scotland's local authorities will be able to apply for funding from the Scottish Government to help ensure that people going out for the night can enjoy themselves in a safe environment.
The Safer Streets funding of £400,000 will be available to Community Safety Partnerships from November 2009 - March 2010. It is to be divided between all 32 local authorities to fund community safety initiatives including high visibility police patrols in 'hot spot' areas, street pastors, targeting of street drinkers, enhanced CCTV and late night taxi marshalls.

Mr McMillan said;

"It's important that funding is made available to make our communities safer and to allow the public to enjoy socialising without fear of harm.

"With crime at its lowest for 25 years and record numbers of police officers serving our communities, the Scottish Government is working to make Scotland safer and stronger.

"Therefore, I welcome this new funding and hope that Inverclyde Community Safety Partnership submit a strong bid in-order to receive the maximum amount of funding available as this will be very beneficial within our local communities."

McMillan Welcomes Encouraging Economic Indicators

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and member of the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee has today (Friday) welcomed the publication of economic indicators for Scotland which show encouraging signs, especially the number of new businesses as indicated by the number of new Scottish bank accounts for Inverclyde.

The following has been reported today by a range of organisations:

* According to the latest survey data from Lloyds TSB, Scottish businesses are showing signs of coming out of recession by the end of the year. Whilst the private sector may still be shrinking, it is doing so at a slower pace, the bank's quarterly business monitor has found, and business bosses' expectations of activity over the next six months could move the economy back into growth.

* A survey by the Scottish Retail Consortium found that Scotland’s retail sales continued to climb during August, with total sales increasing by 5.7%. This compares with total UK sales only up 3% compared to Scotland's 5.7%.

* New Business Start-up Statistics from the Committee of Scottish Clearing Bankers show that the number of businesses opening up new accounts has actually increased from the previous quarter. This is following falls in the previous three quarters.

Mr McMillan said;

""Whilst the news on unemployment obviously remains concerning the indicators of growth are something that can be welcomed and offers real hope that Scotland can weather this recession and come out stronger.

"I am convinced that the Scottish Government's recovery plan to support 15,000 jobs is adding to this confidence and is a contributor to higher rates of economic activity as compared to the UK markets.
"Accelerating major infrastructure investment was vital in ensuring that Scotland is able to overcome the recession.
"The number of new businesses in Scottish bank accounts for Inverclyde is encouraging highlighting local growth which is important during these difficult economic times.
"Alongside this, it is important is that no action is taken to disrupt recovery. That is why I would urge the UK government to use their pre-Budget report to ensure a further acceleration of capital spending into 2010-11, just as was done this year. It is vital to ensure the support jobs across Inverclyde."

McMillan Comments on Scottish Government Budget

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has commented on the Scottish Government’s budget statement for 2010-11 as outlined to the Scottish Parliament on Thursday.

Mr. McMillan welcomed the commitment that continuation of the Council Tax freeze remains a key economic measure in the forthcoming Budget.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Continuing to freeze the council tax is crucial at a time when many families and individuals are reducing their working hours, facing freezes in salary or even salary cuts, people in Inverclyde would be struggling even more than they are currently. This is not the time to increase council tax.

"To protect household income at a time when we all recognise household income is fragile is what would be expected of this and any responsible Government. The potential increase in Council Tax without the freeze in Inverclyde this year would be £246.79, that is unacceptable in the current climate.

"Alongside this we see a massive investment in the NHS with Greater Glasgow and Clyde being allocated £1,874.3 million. At a time when the Westminster Government are cutting the Scottish budget by £500 million this is a fantastic commitment from the SNP Government.

"This support for frontline health services in Inverclyde is a significant boost and I hope to see some noticeable changes to services as a result".

McMillan Highlights A78 Road Safety Issue In Parliament Speech

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP West of Scotland) has today (Thursday), once again, highlighted the issue of road safety on the A78 road network. Mr McMillan made his views clear during a speech in the Scottish Parliament about the Scottish Government's Road Safety Framework.

Mr McMillan said;

"I fully support Scotland’s first Road Safety Framework to 2020 and am delighted that the Scottish Government is implementing an ambitious road casualty reduction target.

"In early 2008 I was contacted by a number of constituents who were concerned about this section of the A78. Since this initial correspondence I undertook a consultation in relation to road safety.

"I had an overwhelming 41% response rate to my consultation on the A78 and have also received 721 responses to my consultation on the Inverkip Power Station, so far.

"What has been clear is that the A78 will struggle to cope with even more vehicles using it at peak times.

"I will continue to fight for road improvements in order to secure a safer future for pedestrians and motorists in the area.

"I think it is also vital to implement the recommendations of the Road Safety Framework where seeking to influence young people’s attitudes to road safety and increasing awareness of the benefits of lower speed driving in relation to health impacts and road safety."

McMillan Welcomes Award for Inverclyde Council

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) welcomed the achievements of Inverclyde Council for winning an award at the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) ceremony held in Cardiff. The Council won the award for Best Partnership Working (Public / Voluntary). The awards are unique in the local government calendar, as they are dedicated to awarding excellence in front line local government public services.

Mr McMillan said;

"This award is great news for Inverclyde Council and all the workers who are part of the project.

"There were over 400 entries for the different awards, which makes some serious competition, so its excellent news that Inverclyde Council has been recognised on a national level.

"I have since lodged a motion of congratulations in the Scottish Parliament and I hope the project goes from strength to strength."

McMillan Concerned at Alcohol Related Deaths in Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has expressed his concern at the high level of alcohol related deaths in Inverclyde in 2008.

Greenock and Inverclyde had the third worst numbers in Scotland with 371% of the UK average alcohol related deaths.

Amongst health boards Greater Glasgow and Clyde recorded the highest number of alcohol related deaths at 267% or nearly three times the UK average.

Mr. McMillan said;

"These are shocking figures for Inverclyde and show the scale of the challenge we face to tackle alcohol abuse.

"With the death rate from alcohol in Inverclyde among the highest in Scotland this is a disturbing reality check which must be tackled by all politicians, health professionals and the drinks industry.

"The scale of Inverclyde’s death toll from alcohol is horrifying. These deaths take a huge personal toll on families as well as our communities and public services.

"The Scottish Government’s package of radical measures to encourage and promote responsible drinking alongside an end to alcohol at pocket money prices a major part of addressing these damaging statistics.

"These figures clearly demonstrate the scale of the problem we have to tackle and the unique situation Scotland is facing.

"We must take drastic action now to avoid another generation of Scots dying through drink".

McMillan Encourages Pupils to Support their Lollipop Person in

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP, West of Scotland) has today (Thursday) encouraged schools, pupils and parents across East Dunbartonshire to show their appreciation for their dedicated lollipop people and nominate them for the UK-wide accolade of Lollipop Person of the Year 2009. The awards are sponsored by Kwik Fit.

The Lollipop Person of the Year is an award that will not only benefit the winning lollipop person individually but will also benefit the school which they serve. The Lollipop Person of the Year will win a holiday and the winning school will be presented with £3,000 to spend on school equipment. There will also be twelve regional winners from across the whole of the UK who will receive £500 worth of holiday vouchers and each of the twelve schools will be awarded £100 worth of book tokens.

Mr McMillan said;

"I believe lollipop men and ladies play a vital role within communities by ensuring that children can walk to school safely, and it is only right that they should be recognised for the work they do.

"I would like to encourage all pupils, parents and teachers who have a lollipop man or lady outside their school to show their appreciation for the service they provide and nominate them for Lollipop Person of the Year 2009."

McMillan Makes Submission to Station Car Parking Policy Consultation

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Wednesday) made a submission to the Station Car Parking Policy in Scotland consultation which is being conducted by Transport Scotland. This consultation seeking views from all interested parties on the development and delivery of the Government’s policy on station car parking.

Mr McMillan said;

"I felt it was important to make a submission to the Station Car Parking Policy in Scotland consultation as its vital that facilities are upgraded in order to entice the public out of their cars and onto public transport.

"This is of great importance when relating to commuters and their travel to and from work and why I would be keen to see an expansion of car parking at train stations.

"Alongside this, an area of interest I have raised in the consultation is the issue of dropped kerbs. I believe it is vital that dropped kerbs are in place at all station car parks to increase accessibility for people in wheelchairs.

"I hope that Transport Scotland will consider the issues I have raised in this letter and look to improve facilities at station car parks for disabled access."

Greenock Telegraph Column - 11th September

Last week the First Minister set out the SNP Government’s ambitious legislative programme for the forthcoming year. 13 Bills will be introduced into the Scottish Parliament ranging from the Debt and Family Homes Bill to Patients' Rights Bill. The SNP Government’s programme aims to increase social housing stock throughout Scotland and create more job opportunities. The bill which has gained most media attention is the Referendum Bill. As we live in a democracy I see no reason why you should be prevented from having your say on the future of Scotland.

Anyone who has had any dealings with the NHS knows only too well how beneficial it is. Therefore, it’s surprising that one of the debates raging in the USA at the moment is the provision of healthcare for the 40m people who have either no or little health insurance. President Obama’s proposals to extend healthcare is being fought tooth and nail by opponents. Unfortunately a Tory MEP, Daniel Hannan, seems to think that healthcare for all is not a good idea. His comments that the NHS is a ‘60 year mistake’ and that he ‘wouldn’t wish it on anyone’ shows just how out of touch with the electorate some politicians really are. Let’s hope president Obama can prevail.

Regarding the USA, today’s date won’t have escaped many peoples attention and the events of 8 years ago. I am sure we will all spare some thoughts for the victims of the atrocity and hope that further terrorist acts can be prevented in the future.

McMillan Welcomes Achievements of Inverclyde Boxer

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) welcomed the achievements of Inverclyde boxer John Simpson who recently retained his Commonwealth featherweight title by lodging a motion of support in the Scottish Parliament.

Mr McMillan said;

"It's fantastic news for Inverclyde that John is representing the area on a sporting level and achieving great things.

"I hope that he will continue to progress forward after retaining his Commonwealth title and move towards greater things.

"I note in the letters of the Greenock Telegraph that a local resident believes John deserves more recognition. Therefore, I hope my motion of support in the Parliament will make all of Scotland aware of Inverclyde's fighting champion.

"I have also written to John to congratulate him on his achievements and to offer him the opportunity to visit the Scottish Parliament which I hope he will accept."

McMillan Welcomes Child Dental Registration Figures for Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) welcomed the latest figures from the Scottish Government which show the number of children in Scotland registered with an NHS dentist has risen to its highest ever level. For Inverclyde Community Health Partnership there has been a 16.6% increase from December 2007 to March 2009 in the number of 3-5 Registrations. (2,052 at Dec 2007 and 2,393 at March 2009).

Mr McMillan said;

"It's great to see the number of children aged 3-5, who have registered with a dentist, has increased by 16.6% in Inverclyde.

" It is well known that children who receive good oral health habits at an early age are much more likely to continue this into later life.

"Alongside this, the rise in the number of dentists working in the NHS highlights that the hard work we have done to make working in the NHS as attractive as possible has paid off.

"I look forward to meeting the Minister for Public Health on Monday morning (14th Sept) at the opening of the upgraded dental practice at Greenock Health Centre and passing on my congratulations to the Scottish Government."

McMillan Urges Inverclyde to Give Children a Better Chance in Life

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) is urging people in Inverclyde to join the Children's Panel and help improve the outlook for young people in the area.

Mr. McMillan says people could make a huge difference to the lives of children in Inverclyde who have been neglected, abused or are going through troubled times.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Some of our young people can find themselves in particularly vulnerable situations and need extra help to get their lives back on track.

"That's why the Children's Panel - made up of local people taking decisions to help youngsters in their area - is so important.

"By ensuring support is in place for children who have been neglected, abused or fallen foul of the law we can improve the future outlook for them, for Inverclyde and for Scotland as a whole.

"Giving back to the community in this way is also an immensely rewarding and worthwhile contribution to make.

"Local panels rely on volunteers, there are no special qualifications needed and I would urge people from all backgrounds to consider joining up this year to help young people in Inverclyde.

"If you are over 18, can spare some time and want to help just call 0845 601 2770 or text Panel1 to 61611 or go to www.infoscotland.com/childrenspanel.

"The Scottish Government is also discussing proposals to strengthen and streamline Scotland's Children's Hearings system and improve the support given to vulnerable young people with stakeholders before legislation is introduced to the Scottish Parliament early next year.

"I look forward to seeing the outcome of these discussions in order to afford appropriate support to vulnerable young people in Inverclyde".

McMillan Commends Bishopbriggs Drugs Seizure

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has commended Strathclyde Police for their efforts in seizing cocaine reportedly worth more than £3million in Bishopbriggs.

Mr. McMillan also laid down a motion in Parliament supporting the Forces’ wider Campaign Against Violence.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This is a great example of the important work Strathclyde Police are doing to tackle serious and organised crime.

"The Campaign Against Violence has already targeted gangs, weapons and violent offenders and this phase of the scheme is proving successful too.

"The work of the officers involved should be commended and I wish them well in their efforts to tackle the drugs and other serious organised crime within our communities".

McMillan Encourages Inverclyde to “Wear it Pink”

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) is encouraging people in Inverclyde to Wear it Pink on 30 October to support Breast Cancer Campaign to raise awareness of their event.

Supporters in schools and business throughout Inverclyde are being encouraged to wear something pink in support of the campaign and each donate £2 to fund innovative world-class breast cancer research.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Every year over 4,000 women in Scotland are diagnosed with breast cancer and like many others I support the work of Breast Cancer Campaign.

"I know many people in Inverclyde will have been affected by the disease through friends, family or personal experience so will know the importance of carrying out breast cancer research.

"I would like to encourage everyone in Inverclyde to wear it pink on 30 October and raise valuable funds for vital breast cancer research.

"If anyone would like more information or to take part in the fundraising day visit http://www.blogger.com/www.wearitpink.co.uk or freephone 0800 107 3104".

McMillan Encourages Voter Registration in Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) is encouraging residents of Inverclyde to make sure that they are registered to vote in the run up to the UK elections.

The Electoral Registration Office is currently carrying out their annual autumn canvas which allows voters to check that their information is correct and that everyone in the household who is entitled to vote can do so.

Mr. McMillan said;

"A General Election has to be called before June 2010 so it is vital that everyone in Inverclyde’s information is up to date if you want to vote.

"Though you may be over 18, pay your Council Tax and have voted before, you may not necessarily be eligible to vote next time, so it’s important not to just throw the letter away.

"The best way to have your say on the issues which matter to you is by voting. By completing this simple form and then voting on polling day, you can influence decisions at Westminster.

"For some this will be their first opportunity to vote in a UK General Election or at all, I would encourage them to visit the Electoral Commission website where they can find out more information on voting, applying for a postal vote or a proxy vote, and they can even visit a virtual polling booth. More information can be found at http://www.blogger.com/www.aboutmyvote.co.uk".

McMillan Welcomes Scottish Government Programme

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) welcomed the Scottish Government’s programme for the coming year.

The First Minister set out the Scottish Government’s priorities contained in the document 'Towards a More Successful Scotland'.

The statement to parliament outlined 13 proposed bills, including plans to end the right-to-buy for all new social housing, tackle alcohol misuse and pave the way for a referendum to allow the people of Scotland a free and fair choice on the country's constitutional future.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The Scottish Government is continuing to repay the trust people showed by voting SNP in 2007.

"The SNP Government has made sure that economic recovery is central to its programme for the year ahead – and that includes giving people in Inverclyde a free and fair choice on the future powers of the Scottish Parliament.

"Plans to increase social housing stock and school building programmes will help support jobs and communities across the country in these tough economic times, building on the SNP’s strong record of delivering for the people of Inverclyde.

"The challenges facing Scotland will be all the more trying as the UK Government is cutting Scotland’s budget by £500 million next year. I believe this shows why giving Scotland the chance to choose the economic levers that come with independence has never been more relevant or urgent. It is time for people in Inverclyde to have their say".

McMillan Welcomes £150,000 Climate Challenge Fund Award for East Dunbartonshire

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Wednesday) welcomed the fifth round of awards from the Scottish Government’s Climate Challenge Fund which includes East Dunbartonshire projects.

Twechar Community Action and St Matthew’s Primary School Cycle Club both gained substantial sums from the Scottish Government’s initiative to award projects tackling climate change funding.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I am delighted these two projects in East Dunbartonshire have gained funding from this fantastic initiative, between them gaining £150,000 for the area to tackle climate change.

"The fund provides communities with the funds to aid projects in delivering a range of methods to reduce their carbon footprint.

"These projects are clearly working towards raising awareness of climate change issues as well as contributing to making Bishopbriggs and Twechar healthier places for all.

"I commend these two projects and urge anyone else from East Dunbartonshire with a relevant project to apply for funding from the Climate Challenge Fund which is a three year scheme. We can all do our bit to tackle one of the biggest environmental and economic threats facing Scotland so your project might just be one choosen to receive funding".

McMillan Welcomes More Bobbies on the Beat

The news there is now more police on the streets of Inverclyde than ever before has been welcomed by Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP).
There is currently 8,390 officers with Strathclyde Police, which covers Inverclyde, that is almost 100 more than the previous quarter.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The figure for the whole of Scotland shows the Scottish Government has reached the target of increasing police numbers by 1,000, nearly two years ahead of schedule.

"Inverclyde is benefiting from a Scottish Government committed to providing police forces with the capability and resources for tackling crime in our communities.

"With more police on the streets, more people in jail than ever before and the lowest ever rates of recorded crime the SNP in Government is making Inverclyde’s streets safer.

"There is always more to do and that is why the SNP will continue to invest in police training, to offer young people alternatives to a life of crime through our Cashback for Communities scheme and to reform our criminal justice system".