McMillan Welcomes Scottish Government Energy Consultation

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and Member of the Scottish Parliament Energy Committee has today (Tuesday) welcomed the publication of the Scottish Government's energy consultation.

The document titled Securing the Benefits of Scotland's Next Energy Revolution is consulting on how the development of renewable and low carbon energy can be supported, while ensuring that Scotland and its local communities enjoy long-term returns from the assets on their door step.

Mr McMillan said;

"This consultation document encourages local communities and organisations to make their views known, to the Scottish Government, on how the renewables revolution can benefit the local economy and wider afield.

"Here in Inverclyde we have great potential to tap into the renewables sector and create employment opportunities. I know Riverside Inverclyde are working hard to harness this potential and bring much needed employment to the area.

"It is only right that a country with plentiful natural resources such as Scotland seeks to ensure that its people benefit through a sustainable and lasting legacy.

"Therefore, I hope people will respond to the Scottish Government's consultation and make their views known about Scotland's long-term sustainable energy prospects."

Notes;

Background

The consultation Securing the Benefits of Scotland's Next Energy Revolution can be accessed online at: www.scotland.gov.uk/Consultations/Current

Scotland is estimated to have around a quarter of Europe's offshore wind and tidal resource, 10 per cent of European wave energy potential and the EU's largest capacity for offshore storage of carbon dioxide.

The Crown Estate Commissioners in Scotland manage the sea bed up to 12 miles from shore as well as the foreshore and some on-land assets. Their activities are the responsibility of UK Government and, as such, are not accountable to Scottish Ministers or the Scottish Parliament.

The Scottish Government is aiming for 80 per cent of the demand for Scottish electricity to be supplied from renewable sources by 2020, with an interim milestone of 31 per cent by 2011. Find out more at: http://www.blogger.com/www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/Energy/Action

McMillan Urges Caution During Cold Spell

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) is urging constituents in the West of Scotland to keep warm in their homes and to take care on the roads following the weekend’s heavy snowfall.
He went on to say that the Scottish Government are keeping a close eye on the conditions and are working closely with local authorities as well as operating companies to make sure salt and grit supplies are kept topped up.

Mr. McMillan said;

"We have seen some extremely heavy snowfall throughout Scotland in recent days and with more forecast it is important that everyone keeps warm at home and takes care on the roads.

"Weather of this nature means that while some people are unable to get to their work, others have to work harder than ever trying to get things running as smoothly as possible. The Council roads staff work extremely hard in very difficult conditions and times like this and we should remember the important work that they do. The Scottish Government received a delivery of salt supplies this morning and are confident we are more prepared then last winter.

"NHS and emergency service workers also provide a vital service at this time with weather conditions adding considerably to their workload and the difficulties they have to contend with. I would ask people to support them and to take care only to call out the emergency services in the case of a genuine emergency.

"The weekend fun of snowballs, snowmen and sledging soon gives way to Monday's frustration of difficulty in getting to work, sorting out child care because the schools are closed and struggling with icy roads and footpaths.

"When weather like this comes, we all have to be extra careful and extra patient.

"If you are going to be travelling remember to keep an eye on weather forecasts and travel information and only make necessary journeys. It is also even more important at this time of year to remember to be a good neighbour. Look out for those around you, particularly the elderly and other vulnerable people."

McMillan Welcomes Discover Inverclyde to Scottish Parliament

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and Member of the Scottish Parliament Tourism Committee has on Thursday welcomed members of Discover Inverclyde to the Scottish Parliament building.

During their visit to the Scottish Parliament the Discover Inverclyde group attended First Minister Question Time, undertook a tour of the building and also met the Minister for Tourism Jim Mather MSP for a brief question and answer session.

Mr McMillan said;

"I was delighted members of Discover Inverclyde took up my invite to visit the Scottish Parliament building.

"This was a great opportunity for local businesses and organisations from Inverclyde to see the Scottish Parliament first hand and also to meet with the Minister for Tourism.

"It’s important that we continue to promote Inverclyde as a tourism destination and highlight the many positive aspects, such as Ocean Terminal in Greenock, the Tall Ships event in 2011 and the Gourock Highland Games, the area has to offer in the way of culture and tourism.

"I hope everyone who visited the Scottish Parliament enjoyed their time and I look forward to meeting them all again in the future."

Chris Jewell of Discover Inverclyde said;

"Our visit to the Scottish Parliament was very informative and enjoyable and we are grateful to Stuart McMillan for the invitation and for a very helpful day.

"Our members thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the chance to discuss matters with the Minister of Tourism who provided helpful insights into what we are doing and ways forward.

"We are committed to being at the forefront of new developments in tourism, retail, leisure and the arts in Inverclyde and to working with all the relevant parties to develop and improve all aspects of tourism in Inverclyde in the future and expressly to help redress the forecast Inverclyde population decline."

Social Housing Builds in Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has welcomed the publication of figures that show social housing building is on the increase in Inverclyde.

The statistics show that 507 social sector houses were started in the area in 2009. Further to this 390 social sector houses were completed in the same period - a massive increase on previous years.

Mr. McMillan said;

"Once again we are seeing positive news for Inverclyde on the social housing front. I am delighted we have seen continuous increases in new builds as well as a large number of homes completed.

"Housing is an issue that comes through my mailbag time and time again so I hope this upward trend is one that will continue and create further housing in Inverclyde.

"This Scottish Government has supported housing regeneration as well as new housing throughout its term in office and these statistics highlight further positive action for people in Inverclyde".

McMillan Welcomes People's Millions Success for OYTS

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and Ambassador for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYTS) has today (Wednesday) welcomed the news that OYTS have been successful in winning the public vote in the People's Millions contest which took place on 22nd November.

The funding OYTS will receive will go toward the Sea Change in Young People project which aims to inspire positive change in 84 disadvantaged young people through the challenge of adventure under sail; believes that it will enable them to connect with what it considers to be the spectacular Scottish coastline for what might be the first time, and wishes the project every success in the vote.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland and everyone involved in the organisation for winning their People's Millions contest.

"This is a great achievement for the organisation and I know the funding will go towards an excellent cause and allow many young people the opportunity to sail, an opportunity which may previously never have been possible.

"As an Ambassador for OYTS I know first hand the excellent work they provide in supporting young people in our community and offering them opportunities to sail.

"Having OYTS based in Inverclyde has been an excellent fit for both the organisation and the area."

MSP & Councillor Welcomes Scottish Government Budget

Stuart McMillan MSP, SNP West of Scotland and Jim MacLeod, SNP Inverclyde Council Group Leader have today (Wednesday) welcomed the Scottish Government’s proposed budget which focuses on protecting jobs, frontline services and economic recovery.

Details released in the budget proposals today include maintaining police numbers, end prescription charges, protects some 10,000 jobs by public sector pay constraint and protecting spending on running health services in Scotland.

Mr. McMillan said;

"This Scottish budget is essential to providing people in Inverclyde with much needed support they require during these difficult economic times.

"Therefore, in the face of unprecedented cuts from Westminster this Scottish budget must be welcomed as it promotes economy recovery and focuses on protecting jobs.

"It shows the Scottish Government is taking real and important action to see Scotland through tough times.

"The commitment to maintain police on our streets will help residents in Inverclyde feel safer in their communities and I'm sure they will also welcome the abolition of prescription charges."

Councillor MacLeod said;

"Maintaining existing eligibility criteria for free personal care and concessionary travel is a welcomed measure to save money for older people.

"I hope all parties will support the Scottish Government's focus on protecting jobs, frontline services and economic growth."

McMillan Welcomes Reverend Carlin to the Scottish Parliament

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Wednesday) welcomed Rev Mgr Denis E Carlin from St Mary’s Catholic Church, Greenock to the Scottish Parliament building.

The Reverend was in attendance to give the Time for Reflection address to Members of the Scottish Parliament after being nominated by Mr McMillan.

Chamber Business usually begins each week with Time for Reflection. Speakers include representatives of Scotland's different faith groups, as well as those of no religious affiliation. School pupils and teachers are among those who have had the opportunity to lead Time for Reflection.

Mr McMillan said;

"I was delighted to hear that my nomination for giving the Time for Reflection, Reverend Carlin, had been chosen.

"Time for Reflection is an excellent opportunity for speakers from different faith groups, as well as those of no religious affiliation to address parliamentarians.

"Therefore, I am delighted that someone from Inverclyde was selected to give this address and I hope Reverend Carlin enjoyed the experience."

Vote for OYTS

McMillan Welcomes News from T-Mobile

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Tuesday) welcomed the news from T-Mobile that they intend to invest further in their Contact Centre, Greenock by locating their business sector customer support team operations in Inverclyde by the year end.

Mr McMillan received the news in a response letter from T-Mobile CEO Richard Moat.

Mr McMillan said;

"I welcome the news from T-Mobile that the Contact Centre in Greenock remains a key element of their future operations and strategy.

"It's also reassuring to hear the news that T-Mobile are planning to invest further in the facility by locating their business sector customer support team at the centre by the year end.

"This is positive news for Inverclyde and everyone who is employed at the centre."

McMillan Raises Flood Prevention & Micro Renewables with Minister

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has today (Thursday) in the Scottish Parliament chamber raised, with the Minister for Infrastructure, the issue of improving flood prevention measures in the West of Scotland and utilising micro renewables.

The question by Mr McMillan came during a statement by the Minister on the Scottish Water Bill.

Mr McMillan said;

"The issue of flood prevention in Inverclyde is a long standing one which I will continue to raise in Parliament and outwith until we see drastic improvements in our infrastructure.

"Much of the flooding has been as a result of years of neglect by the owners of the infrastructure, including Inverclyde Council and Scottish Water.

"Therefore, I was keen to raise with the Minister the possibility of micro power generation schemes being utilised, to allow small scale Community Renewable projects to take place, which can actually address the issue of flood prevention."

McMillan Raises Roads Issue with First Minister

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has today (Thursday) raised with the First Minister Alex Salmond MSP the issue of keeping Scotland’s roads clear this winter. Mr McMillan was asking the question to the First Minister on the back of last year’s severe weather which affected many roads throughout Scotland.

During last winter people on community service orders were out clearing streets of snow and helping the elderly and other vulnerable people in local communities.

Mr McMillan said;

"Last year Scotland witnessed severe weather conditions which brought many of our roads to a halt causing travel chaos.

"Therefore, I felt it important to raise this issue with the First Minister and to learn if people carrying out community service orders will be utilised, this year, to clear roads and paths where possible. I believe this scheme should be rolled out across the country and I welcome the First Minister’s acknowledgement of this view.

"It’s imperative that Scotland’s roads are sufficiently maintained this winter and local authorities are prepared for all eventualities. I have written to Council’s in the West of Scotland to ask what contingencies they have put in place to combat the possibility of severe weather affecting the roads this winter.

"We cannot afford a repeat of last year’s situation."

McMillan Hits Out at Opposition to Alcohol Bill

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) spoke of the "ridiculous" opposition to parts of the Alcohol Bill in the Scottish Parliament.

The Bill was passed at stage three today (Wednesday 10 November), however opposition parties were vociferous in their denial of minimum pricing as a potential life and money saving measure in the Bill.

Mr. McMillan said;

"I welcome the passing of this bill as a start to tackling Scotland's abusive relationship with alcohol.

"However, I am still flabbergasted at the vehemence with which minimum pricing was met by the opposition.

"Labour in particular have acted with arrogance throughout this process in their dismissal of experts knowledge and opinion. The overwhelming majority of police chiefs, health chiefs and industry officials were in favour of minimum pricing as one of many measures to tackle problem drinkers.

"The key here is problem drinkers, in that it is not the beverage that is the problem, but those consuming it. Another fact Labour seemed keen to ignore when it came to their attempt at introducing a clause banning caffeinated alcohol.

"I have yet to see a riot kick off in front in a cafe after one too many espressos. This was a ludicrously ill thought-out argument and I'm glad it did not get through in the Bill.

"We must now move forward with the implementation of the new Act and work towards a safer, healthier and wealthier Scotland without such a turbulent dependency on alcohol."

McMillan Comments on Cost of Stamp Rise

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has reacted angrily to reports that the cost of a first class stamp will rise by 5p in April following a decision by Postcomm to allow Royal Mail greater commercial freedom.

Commenting Mr McMillan said:

"This may well be a sign of things to come as the Royal Mail prepares for privatisation. The UK Government are desperate to make it as saleable as possible irrespective of the damage that will be inflicted in the process.

"This rise is far in excess of inflation and totally indefensible. If allowed to proceed, it will hit small businesses very hard. Unlike large companies, small businesses do not have ability to access bulk mailing discounts and alternative services nor can they negotiate more favourable terms.

"This is yet another blow against small businesses and those who rely on the postal network in Inverclyde from the Lib Dem / Tory Coalition government."

MSP and MEP Visit Working Links

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and Alyn Smith MEP have recently visited Working Links based in Greenock to discuss how the organisation is helping people in Inverclyde find employment.

Stuart McMillan MSP said;

"This summer I had the chance to visit Working Links to learn about their organisation and what they doing to help people in Inverclyde find employment. Going along with Alyn Smyth MEP was an opportunity to learn some more about the business but also who the EU can play a part in assisting their work here in Inverclyde.

"I know they work hard at providing training and job opportunities but they have operate in a challenging environment. After the recent UK Government spending cuts announcement, even more challenges will be placed upon Working Links and other organisations trying to providing training and work opportunities.

"I would encourage residents in Inverclyde who may be looking for employment advice to contact them Working Links free on 0800 917 9262."

Alyn Smith MEP said;

"The SNP is committed to working with the voluntary sector and business community to tackle unemployment in Scotland and fight the effects of the recession. I enjoyed my recent visit with Stuart to Working Links and was impressed to hear how they have helped 150,000 people change their lives by supporting them into sustainable employment and training.

"Following Westminster cuts in public spending, we discussed various EU funding avenues and other ways in which the EU could assist. It's important that we work together to ensure economic recovery and help hard-working organisations like Working Links get all the support they need."

New Drive to Winter-Proof West of Scotland Homes

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) is encouraging people in Inverclyde to take up the Scottish Government's help to winter-proof their homes.

Home Energy Scotland has been set up by the Scottish Government and is a one stop shop for people looking to save energy and lower fuel bills during the winter months. Measures include offering free energy saving gadgets worth £50 in the form of a digital electricity monitor and a stand-by plug which will help households to save, on average, £47 a year on fuel bills and CO2 that would fill 361 wheelie bins.

Mr. McMillan said;

"The range of help available through the Home Energy Hotline include free or discounted insulation, central heating, help to switch to cheaper tariffs and help to ensure people are claiming their full pension and benefit support.

"By offering this help the Scottish Government are once again ensuring people are able to stay warm and keep their bills down this winter. If we see a winter similar to last year this will be a very welcome measure.

"The free energy saving devices and other help will assist households in saving money at a time when everyone is counting the pennies.

"I would encourage anyone in Inverclyde who is unsure of what they can do to call the Home Energy Hotline on 0800 512 012."

McMillan Welcomes News of Cruise Ship Visits to Inverclyde

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Thursday) welcomed the news that nearly 40 cruise ships are scheduled to visit Greenock Ocean Terminal during the cruise ship season in 2011.

The number of cruise ships visiting Inverclyde will mean around 50,000 tourists will frequent the area.

Mr McMillan said;

"I am delighted to hear that around 40 cruise ships will be visiting Inverclyde in 2011.
"This news will be warmly welcomed by local businesses and will give a much needed boost to the local economy.

"With the Tall Ships coming in 2011 it's looking like an excellent year to showcase Inverclyde for it's many positive attributes and cultural heritage it has to offer.

"I will, therefore, continue to talk up Inverclyde and be positive about the area."

Scottish Parliamentary motion by Stuart McMillan MSP -

Short title: Cruise Ships to visit Inverclyde

That the Parliament welcomes the news that nearly 40 cruise ships are scheduled to visit Greenock Ocean Terminal during the cruise ship season in 2011; understands that this number of cruise ships is expected to draw around 50,000 tourists to the Inverclyde area and believes that this can only benefit local businesses and the local economy; notes that 2011 will see the return of the Tall Ships to Inverclyde and that this will be another opportunity to showcase the area and all it has to offer; acknowledges what it considers to be the excellent work Inverclyde Tourist Group undertakes with cruise ship passengers showcasing Inverclyde in a positive light, and wishes them every success when the next lot of visitors come to the area in 2011.

McMillan Seeks Meeting With Minister for Transport Over A78 Trunk Road - Inverkip Junction

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Wednesday) written to the Minister for Transport to seek a meeting regarding the A78 Trunk Road - Inverkip Junction

In his letter, Mr McMillan raises the concerns of constituents who have contacted him regarding the re-painting of the line markings at the junction and the lack of additional signage.

Mr McMillan said;

"I have been inundated with correspondence from constituents who are very concerned that the new road markings have created a change in priority and the work undertaken has made things worse.

"I am very concerned with the way developments have occurred and believe its vital the views of the residents of Inverkip and Wemyss Bay are put forward.

"Therefore, I have written to the Minister for Transport to strongly request that a meeting be arranged at the earliest, most suitable, occasion between him and I in-order for me to convey the deeply felt concerns of my constituents."

McMillan Adds His Support For OYTS in People's Millions

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) and Ambassador for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYTS) has today (Tuesday) added his support to their public vote in the People's Millions contest which is scheduled to take place on 22nd November.

Mr McMillan is encouraging Inverclyde residents to add their support for OYTS by phoning up on the day. The telephone number will be made available on the day of the contest and can be accessed on the People's Millions website and also in the Daily Mirror newspaper of the same day, 22nd November.

Mr McMillan said;

"I would encourage Inverclyde residents to show their support for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland and vote for them in the People's Millions contest on 22nd November.

"As an Ambassador for OYTS I have come to work closely with the staff and volunteers involved in the organisation. They do an excellent job in supporting young people in our community and offering them opportunities to sail on the sea something which many may never have dreamed of.

"Having OYTS based in Inverclyde has been an excellent fit for both the organisation and the area. Therefore, I hope the people of Inverclyde will get right behind their bid to secure the funding they require to allow many more young people the chance of adventure under sail."

McMillan Contacts Constituents and Transport Scotland About A78 Road Safety

Stuart McMillan MSP has contacted constituents and Transport Scotland following a number of issues that have been raised by constituents regarding new line markings at the A78/Inverkip junction.

Stuart commented:

"I cautiously welcome the news from Transport Scotland that temporary signage will be put in place on the A78 - Inverkip Junction to familiarise drivers with the revised layout. However, this is not enough.

"Temporary signage will not assist new home owners and tenants who move into Inverkip once the signs are removed.

"With the possibility of new building occurring at the Inverkip Power Station site its imperative that motorists are aware of the revised layout on the A78 Inverkip Junction.

"Alongside this, temporary signage will not assist any future tourist who comes to the area to visit Kip Marina, for example, when the signs are removed.

"Therefore, I have written again to Transport Scotland asking that they take these comments and concerns into consideration regarding road safety on the A78 Inverkip Junction."

A copy of the letter from Stuart McMillan MSP to transport Scotland is attached below:

Re: A78 – Inverkip Junction

I further write to you in connection with the above subject after being contacted by constituents who have received updates from me regarding improved road safety on the A78.

I am grateful for your response letter dated 1st November 2010 to my letter regarding the safety improvement measures at the Inverkip Junction.

I note from reading your letter that temporary signage will be put in place as a short term measure to familiarise motorists with the revised layout. In relation to this, I would say that temporary signage will not assist new home owners and tenants who move into Inverkip once the signs are removed.

Alongside this, with the possibility of new building occurring at the Inverkip Power Station site its imperative those motorists are aware of the revised layout on the A78 Inverkip Junction.

Finally, temporary signage will not assist any future tourist who comes to the area to visit Kip Marina, for example, when the signs are removed.

Therefore, I would be grateful if Transport Scotland could take on-board my concerns into consideration regarding road safety on the A78 Inverkip Junction.

Yours sincerely

Stuart McMillan MSP

McMillan Signs up to Carers Manifesto Pledge

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has signed up to the Scotland's Carers Manifesto which outlines clear demands for the Scottish elections in May 2011 and presses political parties to commit to support carers.

Mr McMillan signed the pledge, which states ‘Carers are essential to our community and economy’ in the Scottish Parliament.

Mr. McMillan said;

“I have never been in any doubt as to how vital carers are to our local communities in Inverclyde, so I was only too happy to sign up to this pledge.

“The Scottish Government this year published ‘Caring Together: The Carers Strategy for Scotland 2010-2015’, which is a fantastic start in ensuring the Scotland Carers Manifesto pledges are considered fully and implemented as appropriate in the future.

“I also support Carers Rights Day, which takes place on 3 December this year, as a way of highlighting how valuable carers and young carers are to us in providing care for loved ones.

“There can be no price put on a high standard of care and we must ensure that carers throughout Inverclyde are properly provided for themselves”.

Stamp of Approval for Greenock Postmaster

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has congratulated a Greenock postmaster for landing a £25,000 grant from the Scottish Government through the Post Office Diversification Fund.

The fund will help launch new business activities which are built around post offices, given their vital role in supporting communities and local economies. Examples of diversification schemes approved include setting up an internet café and selling local produce.

Mr. McMillan said;

“The Bow Road post office in Greenock is the first in Inverclyde to receive this funding and I hope the story inspires other post offices in the West of Scotland to branch out too.

“The fund itself provides a fantastic opportunity to Scottish post offices to increase their important function which is already at the heart of many communities in the West of Scotland.

“This initiative builds on the Scottish Government’s comprehensive support for small firms in Scotland. Through measures such as the Small Business Bonus Scheme, we have seen small firms supported, including the local post office network, enabling them to go from strength to strength and play their part in building strong and sustainable economic growth.”