Our Man in Holyrood: Contrary to popular belief most MSPs do work across party lines in relationships that are essential to the overall functioning of our democracy as we work together to get the job done
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MSP Fergus Ewing says MSPs from different parties on the same issue is 'essential' to Scotland's democracy and he plans to concentrate on oil and gas as well as crofting.
In Holyrood, most new MSPs have now made their maiden speeches and what a great deal of talent and experience our new intake brings to our parliament.
The last few weeks have been a chance for many to learn the ropes and get to grips with how our parliament runs with its rules, practices and conventions.
Contrary to popular belief, most MSPs do work across party lines. These relationships are essential to the overall functioning of our democracy. Once committee work begins these relationships are cemented while working together. Discussions will begin to take place behind the scenes as we work together to get the job done.
An example of this working is through cross party groups – also known as CPGs. These cover a wide variety of topics, and work with MSPs having an interest in the issue and meeting members of the public who likewise have a distinct interest.
I hope to play my part in the oil and gas group and the crofting group. It does feel strange to be a backbench MSP after 14 years as a minister. However, I have been able to use the time freed up to focus on my constituents and constituency matters, and myself and my excellent team of Becca Macleod, Danielle Nicolson and Rosie MacInnes are ready and available to assist with anyone who seeks the assistance of their MSP.
At a recent meeting with NHS Highland I learned about the challenges they have faced during the course of the pandemic. Including the serious problems over risks of cross-infection.
Just today, I learned that they have now vaccinated over four out of five people over the age of 16 – a slightly higher percentage than the national average across Scotland.
For those who have missed out, there are two drop-in centres set up to provide the vaccinations. It has been a solid effort with hard work on the part of our NHS staff for which we are all grateful.
I hope we can see Covid-19 beaten off, including the new variants, and return to normality as soon as possible. Questions and problems regarding Covid-19 still dominate our casework and we try to get answers and help where we can.
It has been great to see hospitality and tourism resume, as the impacts on these businesses, and people, has been truly horrendous. Let’s hope that we can now move to a period of recovery – and get our lives back!
Related story – £10bn offshore energy project would green Scotland's oil and gas sector and safeguard thousands of jobs
