Festive Message

It’s been another eventful year in Scottish politics and one which has seen the election of the first majority Government in Holyrood. It is a privilege being one of your elected representatives and I thank you for that honour.

This year saw the sad and untimely death of David Cairns MP. This was a shock for the whole Inverclyde community and the establishment of the David Cairns Foundation will be a fitting legacy to him.

Many issues have been fought, such as: recent Coastguard campaign, campaigning to improve our flood defences, campaigning to have Inverclyde become one of the Enterprise Zones, campaigning for funding for Inverclyde’s regeneration and many others. Inverclyde’s future will be successful if we can bring more employment to the area.

There has been a lot of good news with millions being ploughed into new housing and £20m for two new ferries to be built by Ferguson’s bringing more jobs and apprenticeships, to name just two. 2012 will bring further campaigns and successes.

Over this festive period I would ask you to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours and if they require assistance, please do what you can to assist.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my staff and colleagues for all their efforts in my re-election and beyond. It’s a team effort and I’m thankful for their assistance.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone in Inverclyde a very Merry Christmas and an extremely happy and prosperous 2012.

METAL THEFT ISSUE TO BE MET HEAD-ON

STUART McMILLAN MSP WELCOMES COLLABORATIVE EFFORT TO BEAT THE THIEVES
　
A group of organisations are coming together to combat metal and cable theft in Scotland today (Thursday).

SNP MSP Stuart McMillan has brought together British Transport Police, Network Rail and Scottish Power for a meeting to address the problem. The meeting follows a consultation from the SNP Government to address improving standards by expanding the metal dealers licensing scheme.

Rail and utility companies have been among those who have been the victims of metal theft, as have churches and monuments, and the meeting will allow the organisations to set out their aims and plans to face the issue head-on.

Last month reports warned metal thefts put people’s lives in danger – with coastguard communications stolen, 999 phone system disconnected and other emergency services disrupted.

The problem reared its ugly head when cable theft was to blame for a blackout which hit Glasgow in November.

Mr McMillan said:

"With police warning it is only a matter of time before someone is killed as a result of organised gangs stealing copper, it is vital a change in the law is made and it is made soon. Bringing in partner organisations this will enable us to face the issue head-on.

"I am pleased the Scottish Government is committed to tackling this problem and welcome consultation and the acknowledgement from Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill that metal theft is a serious issue that will be addressed.

"With emergency services particularly vital at this time of year, it is essential we let metal thieves know their actions are not acceptable and can have a damaging effect on people’s lives.

"I hope this action from the Scottish Government will curb the disgraceful increase in metal thefts.

"Tightening of these laws will bring nearly all metal dealers into the scope of licensing by dramatically increasing the level of turnover required for exemptions.

"The current legislation has clearly not deterred thefts so something must be done to get a solution that targets this crime."

McMillan Leads Scottish Parliament Fuel Debate

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) and Member of the Scottish Parliament’s Energy Committee has today (Wednesday) led a debate in the Scottish Parliament on the issue of fuel prices.

Mr McMillan lodged the motion in Parliament in recognition of the continued campaign by the Greenock Telegraph to highlight the disparity in petrol and diesel prices in Inverclyde and throughout Scotland.

Mr. McMillan said:

"I want to congratulate the Greenock Telegraph for their campaign within Inverclyde highlighting the inequity of petrol and diesel pricing that faces every vehicle driver in the area.

"Regularly, the price of petrol and diesel is more expensive in Inverclyde as compared to other towns nearby and it is justified by claims of local competition.

"The great Inverclyde Petrol Rip Off has sickened many from the area and they have decided to buy their fuel elsewhere.

"While the SNP is working to lower bills through the Council Tax Freeze, Small Business Bonus Scheme, and abolishing prescription charges, as well as create opportunities by stimulating the economy and creating modern apprenticeships, the Inverclyde motorist feels as if they are being ripped off at the fuel pump and there are knock on effects to the wider Inverclyde economy.

"Therefore, the Greenock Telegraph campaign for fair fuel prices is an excellent initiative and they deserve to be wholeheartedly commended for it."

McMillan Highlights Home Heat Helpline

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) and Member of the Scottish Parliament Energy Committee has today (Tuesday) encouraged constituents in West Dunbartonshire to contact the Home Heat Helpline.

New figures reveal that in 6,300 households in West Dunbartonshire are entitled to some form of assistance with their fuel bills.　 That help is worth an average of £250 per household and a free helpline is available for more information.
　
Mr McMillan MSP said:

"Around 6,300 homes in West Dunbartonshire are entitled to some form of support.

"Anyone who is concerned about staying warm should call the Home Heat Helpline and seek advice.

"I would also ask people to look out for neighbours, friends or relatives who may be in difficulty and make sure that they are aware of the Home Heat Helpline."

The number for the Home Heat Helpline is 0800 33 66 99 or you can visit www.homeheathelpline.org.uk. It is a free service that provides independent advice to people on low incomes on how to get help with their gas and electricity bills as well as other help such as grants for insulation or a new boiler.

Christine McGourty from the Home Heat Helpline also advises people to think about what they can do around the home to reduce their energy consumption:

"As well as calling the Home Heat Helpline to find out what financial assistance is available there are some other simple steps people can take. For example:　　
　
• turn radiators down in rooms which you only use occasionally
• switch your lights off when you're not using them
• turn appliances like TVs and phone chargers off at the wall rather than leaving them on standby when they're not being used
• replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
• regularly defrost your freezer to make sure it's operating at full efficiency
• draw curtains over windows at night to provide insulation for the room
• move furniture away from radiators and heaters to allow heat to circulate around the room
• open internal doors of any rooms which get more sun than others and let the warm air travel around your home"

Home Heat Helpline: 0800 33 66 99 or www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

MSP & Councillor Welcome Regeneration Announcement

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) and Director of Riverside Inverclyde, Councillor Chris Osborne, have today (Thursday) welcomed the announcement from the Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Alex Neil MSP that Urban Regeneration Company (URC) Riverside Inverclyde is to receive further funding from the Scottish Government.

Riverside Inverclyde was already due to receive #2.5m in 2012/13 and will now benefit from an additional #1.5m in 2013/14.

Mr McMillan has been a vocal campaigner in support of Riverside Inverclyde and has continued to lobby the Scottish Government, through letters and meetings, for further financial assistance to be given to the URC.

Mr McMillan said;

“I wholeheartedly welcome the announcement from the Cabinet Secretary and SNP Government that Riverside Inverclyde is to receive an additional £1.5m funding for the year 2013/14.

“I have supported the work Riverside Inverclyde has done to regenerate the area and believe it’s vital they have the resources at their disposal to continue to develop Inverclyde after years of inactivity by previous administrations.

“This announcement on top of the £27.8m and £13.9m already allocated from the SNP Government and Scottish Enterprise respectively in addition to the £17.8m from Inverclyde Council will assist RI in their work.

“I am sure this news will be warmly welcomed in Inverclyde and I would expect the money to be invested to create further opportunities.”

Cllr Osborne said;

“I fully welcome the announcement that Riverside Inverclyde is to receive increased funding.

“I’m sure this funding will make a real difference and help continue the regeneration of Inverclyde.”

Timeline of action taken by Stuart McMillan MSP –

• Raised RI funding at EET Committee on 19th Jan 2011
• Letter to Min for Communities – Funding for RI – 24th Jan 2011
• Supported Scottish Government budget – Feb 2011
• SG announce URC Funding – RI £4m – 24th Feb 2011
• Meeting with Riverside Inverclyde - 19th October.
• Meeting with Minister for Enterprise, Fergus Ewing MSP, on Tuesday 1st November.
• Meeting with Cab Sec for Infrastructure – regarding Riverside Inverclyde future – 3rd Nov 11
• Letter to Cab Sec for Infrastructure – Regeneration Funding – 8th Nov 11
• Spoke in Scottish Parliament Regeneration debate – 16th Nov 11

McMillan Secures Inverclyde Visit from Environment Minister

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has received assurances from the Minister for Environment, Stewart Stevenson MSP, that he will visit Inverclyde to see, first-hand, how the area has been affected by flooding.

Inverclyde recently witnessed heavy flooding causing delays on the road network and cancellations of trains.

Mr. McMillan said:

“Last week, Inverclyde witnessed some of the worst rainfall to hit Scotland in years leading to delays on the road and train network.

“For too long now Inverclyde has had to deal with the aftermath of devastating flooding. I know from speaking to local businesses and residents that flooding is causing havoc on their daily lives.

“Therefore, meeting the Minister was of the upmost importance, in-order, to highlight the strong concerns of those in Inverclyde who have been affected by flooding.

“I am pleased the Minister will be visiting the area and witnessing, first-hand, how Inverclyde continues to be plagued by flooding.”

McMillan Encourages Residents to be “Good Winter Neighbours”

Stuart McMillan MSP SNP has today (Monday) urged people across West Scotland to respond to the current cold weather by looking out for vulnerable people in their communities.

Mr. McMillan said;

"As we head into winter, and with conditions forecast to remain very cold for some time to come, it seems likely that local authorities and our emergency services will be at full stretch trying to keep major routes open and attend to the most pressing emergencies.

"If you are able to, it would be an ideal time to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, make sure they have heat and that their pre-payment meters are topped up.

"If you are in an area where the footpaths are still affected by snow and ice, you may be able to help clear paths.

" It is also very important to recognise the hard work being put in by local council workers and the many others in the emergency services and in public transport organisations who will be doing their best to keep West Scotland moving during the winter."

McMillan Meets Minister to Discuss Flooding

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has today (Thursday) met with the Minister for Environment, Stewart Stevenson MSP, to discuss the on-going issue of flooding in West Scotland and particularly Inverclyde.
　
Earlier this week Inverclyde witnessed some of the worst weather conditions in Scotland which led to large scale flooding and disruption to transport links (car and rail).
　
Mr McMillan has been a vocal campaigner in the need for more robust flood prevention methods in Inverclyde.

Mr. McMillan said:

"Once again, Inverclyde has witnessed some of the worst weather conditions in Scotland, leading to large scale flooding which has affected our rail and road network.

"Alongside this, I know businesses have been left devastated at the level of flooding and the cost this will place on their livelihood.

"It’s vital all public bodies act to address these annual flooding problems affecting Inverclyde.　 For too long the people of this area have had to suffer.

"Therefore, I have made this clear to the Minister for Environment and asked the Scottish Government to offer what assistance it can to Inverclyde. I have called for a flooding summit so that all partners can work together for better flood prevention and a better Inverclyde."

McMillan Welcomes New Investment in Young People

Stuart McMillan MSP SNP has today (Thursday) welcomed the news that Scotland will have a dedicated Youth Employment Minister and invest an extra £30million in young people.

The funding will help Scotland’s youth back into training, work or education to secure a strong workforce of the future.

Details of the Ministerial post and allocation of the £30m will be outlined before Parliament breaks for recess.

Mr. McMillan said;

“This is a fantastic announcement from the First Minister that will help get our 16-19 year olds back into work, education or training.

“While Scotland’s youth employment rate is higher than the rest of the UK, more needs to be done.

“This money will really help young Scots – especially during this tough economic time.

“Appointing a dedicated Youth Employment Minister shows how committed the SNP is to equipping all our young people the skills they need for life – and getting them into employment.

“The Minister’s priority will be to promote skills and work for 16 to 24-year-olds and to ensure not a single school leaver becomes just an unemployment statistic. The SNP Government is securing a stronger workforce for the future.”

McMillan Welcomes Lottery Funding for West Scotland

Stuart McMillan MSP SNP has today (Thursday) welcomed the announcement from Big Lottery Fund that projects in the West of Scotland have secured funding through the ‘Our Place’ programme.

Our Place is funded by the Big Lottery Fund in Scotland. Funding of at least £1 million will be made available to each of five specific communities in Scotland. A development support provider will help people to get involved in Our Place and support communities to prioritise what they need in their area.

The areas participating in the Our Place programme are:

•Bellsmyre, West Dunbartonshire
•Moorpark, Renfrewshire
•Newmains, Wishaw, North Lanarkshire
•Roystonhill, Glasgow
•Greenock Town Centre and East, Inverclyde

Mr. McMillan said;

"I was delighted to hear that projects in the West Scotland region have received support from Big Lottery Fund.

“The Our Place fund is a large pot of money and I’m pleased that projects such as Alternatives West Dunbartonshire Community Drug Service, Bellsmyre Community Advice Centre Management Group, CVS Inverclyde and The Phoenix Community Health Project have secured funding.

"I know the financial assistance from the Big Lottery Fund will be warmly welcomed and I wish every project the very best for the future."