Inverness and Nairn MSP Fergus Ewing ‘barking up the wrong tree’; plus rusty River Ness railings and tributes to much-loved former head teacher
‘SNP hasn’t turned its back on the Highlands’
A great deal has rightly been said about Winnie Ewing’s legacy as a trailblazer for Scotland and independence. But her son Fergus also deserves recognition. Often overshadowed by his mother’s iconic status, Fergus has carved out an impressive record in his own right - spending nearly 30 years standing up for the Highlands, championing our communities, and making sure rural Scotland’s voice is heard.
That’s why I’m genuinely sorry to see that Fergus has lost faith in the Scottish National Party. He’s made his disagreement with certain policies very clear - both in Parliament and in the press -and while those moments have been difficult, there’s no denying that many in the Highlands share his concerns and appreciate his candour.
Fergus has strongly hinted that he may stand as an independent candidate in Inverness and Nairn. That is, of course, his decision to make. But I’d be saddened to see it come to that.
Fergus and I share the same passion for the Highlands, but we differ in how we think that fight is best carried forward. I believe the strongest place to deliver for our communities is from within the SNP - where there should be space for robust debate and challenge. The party must do more to ensure those who speak up with conviction, even in disagreement, have a place to be heard and respected. That’s how we stay strong - by listening, not by closing ranks.
The SNP is now in the process of selecting its candidate for Inverness and Nairn. If I’m fortunate enough to be chosen, I’ll work tirelessly to earn the trust of those who feel let down. I’ll show that the SNP hasn’t turned its back on the Highlands - and never will.
There’s much work still to be done: the full dualling of the A96, including the long-promised Nairn bypass, and the A9; stronger support for our farmers; a community-first approach to energy infrastructure; tourism that respects both visitors and residents; and more affordable homes to keep our young people here in the Highlands.
These are the battles that the next MSP for Inverness and Nairn must take up with urgency and determination.
But whatever happens next, one thing is certain: the SNP, and the Highlands, owe Fergus Ewing a great deal. His record of service deserves respect and gratitude.
Jérémie Fernandes.
Prospective SNP candidate for Inverness and Nairn
Mr Ewing should switch his target
Fergus Ewing hints at his intention to stand as an independent at next year’s Holyrood elections.
He is widely respected and is not afraid to speak his mind.
However, in criticising the A9 upgrading, he is barking up the wrong tree. He would be better off fighting to change the Barnett formula, which defines what the UK sends us back.
It is the root cause of so many of Scotland’s problems including the A9 project.
It simply doesn’t provide what Scotland needs.
Scotland has prioritised reducing child poverty.
It is now 35 per cent higher in England than it is here, which I believe is the correct priority, but prioritising means you can’t do all the other things we badly need. In sending all our tax and National Insurance revenue to Westminster, we only get on average 65 per cent back in block grant.
Imagine what we could do if we were able to retain all of it.
In addition, we are prevented from borrowing anything meaningful, nor can we go into the red.
Imagine what we could do if these restrictions were removed.
So, Fergus, why don’t you use your considerable influence to get a better a deal for Scotland?
Alan Anderson
Grantown
Rusty railings ‘hazard’ at city beauty spot
Rusty railings at an Inverness beauty spot which underwent a £2.5 million revamp are a hazard and an eyesore, according to a city councillor. Despite extensive work to improve Riverside Way alongside the River Ness the old railings remain in place.
“Why wasn't this upgraded with the rest of the work? It makes no sense.” - Craig Robertson
“To be brutally honest, they’re better just replacing all the railings even though some might not need it. At least it will ensure that they are new and there’s nothing that can go wrong.” - Travis Healy
“There is also huge hole in middle of high street near McDonald's, nearly went flying.” - Calum James Boydon
Tributes paid to former head teacher
A former Inverness head teacher renowned for “roaring” poetry from the table tops and singing from the front has died aged 69. Richard Syred, the former head teacher at Inshes Primary School, died unexpectedly but peacefully at his home in Kirkhill.
“I'm so sorry to read this, thinking of Liz and the family at this time! Such a lovely man, rest in peace Mr Syred, hope you're wearing your best tie!” - Sophie Redmond
“Sending my deepest condolences. I fondly remember Mr Syred and all the laughs we had at Drakies. Thinking of his family at this sad time.” - Gael Tannock-Josey
“Awwww so sorry to read this, Richard was a lovely man, I worked with him when he was working as a relief teacher, staff and kids enjoyed being in his class - he made learning so much fun.” - Debbie Mac
“Thinking of his family. Richard was a super boss when I moved up to Inverness. A great character and always stopped to say hi.” - Laura Jane
“I have very fond memories from our time when our son was at Inshes. Mr Syred was an inspirational head teacher and had the most loving and motivational manner with both children and parents. His attitude and people skills were beyond outstanding. His style and manner should be a blueprint for universities for teaching degrees. You will be missed Mr Syred.” - Louise Innes
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