Born in 1946 and brought up in Cupar, Fife, I was educated at the local school - 
The Scottish government is spending £255,000 on a plan to put freight onto the Caledonian Canal, which it reckons will take 15,000 lorry trips off the road.
The 60 mile Caledonian Canal runs the length of the Great Glen allowing vessels to sail from the west coast via Fort William up to Inverness and the North Sea.
A six month pilot scheme aims to transport 7,600 tonnes of timber on the canal as well as 6,000 tonnes of timber from Loch Etive to Corpach.
In addition, a mobile floating pier on Loch Etive will be used to transfer 108,000 tonnes of timber by water over the next five years.
Following a maiden voyage by the MV Kanutta through the canal, Stewart Stevenson, Scottish minister for transport, infrastructure and climate change, said:
“Not only will this route further open up Scotland for business, it will also support our aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by taking lorries off our roads, and helping to clear congestion on the vital A82 route.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with British Waterways and Highland and Islands Enterprise to enable our canals to become an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative transport method.”
Karen Adam is now the MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast
29 October 2010
28 October 2010
Stevenson Hails 29% Increase In Aberdeenshire Apprenticeships Under SNP Government
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed figures which show the availability of Modern Apprenticeships has increased dramatically under the current Scottish Government. During the previous administration, apprenticeship places across Scotland fell by 20% from 20,649 to 16,930 but they have been restored to 20,218 since the SNP took office. Adult apprenticeships fell by just over 4,000 during the previous administration from over 11,000 to 7,359 but have also increased to over 11,000 under the current Scottish Government.
In Aberdeenshire, the increase in places is above the average, with a 29% growth in places since 2006/07. There are now 824 apprenticeships available in the area compared to 640 at the end of the previous administration.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“I am delighted that the SNP Government is successfully reversing the previous administration’s legacy of neglect when it comes to apprenticeship places. Apprenticeships are more important than ever during these difficult economic times as people seek to retrain and learn new skills.
“The situation in Aberdeenshire is well ahead of the national average and is testament to the fact that apprenticeships are clearly important to the fishing and oil & gas industries.
“These places are a key part of our economic recovery strategy and the contrast to the previous administration clearly shows that the SNP is the only party which can be trusted to protect and create jobs for people across Scotland.”
In Aberdeenshire, the increase in places is above the average, with a 29% growth in places since 2006/07. There are now 824 apprenticeships available in the area compared to 640 at the end of the previous administration.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“I am delighted that the SNP Government is successfully reversing the previous administration’s legacy of neglect when it comes to apprenticeship places. Apprenticeships are more important than ever during these difficult economic times as people seek to retrain and learn new skills.
“The situation in Aberdeenshire is well ahead of the national average and is testament to the fact that apprenticeships are clearly important to the fishing and oil & gas industries.
“These places are a key part of our economic recovery strategy and the contrast to the previous administration clearly shows that the SNP is the only party which can be trusted to protect and create jobs for people across Scotland.”
27 October 2010
Stevenson Welcomes Positive Talks With UK Minister On School Transport Safety
Banff & Buchan MSP and Minister for Transport Stewart Stevenson has written to his Westminster counterpart, UK Transport Minister Mike Penning to see if legislation on school bus seatbelts could be transferred to Holyrood.
Mr Stevenson was speaking at a meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Public Petitions Committee. The meeting was also attended by Banffshire campaigner Ron Beaty.
Mr Stevenson said the Scottish Government had previously had talks on the issue with the UK Government "without getting any sense that that would be a request which if made would be accepted". However, with the recent change in the UK Government and positive talks with the new Minister, this is something that Mr Stevenson and Schools Minister Keith Brown would work on.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
"Keith Brown, the Schools Minister, wrote to Mike Penning in June seeking to see what could be done in terms of legislative competence in terms of seatbelts.
"I think we`ve subsequently become aware of what has happened in Wales and how that competence has been given there.
"I`ve been discussing that this morning with the Minister from the UK Government and I think it is clear that is an area where we can make significant progress in terms of taking forward school bus safety."
Mr Stevenson was speaking at a meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Public Petitions Committee. The meeting was also attended by Banffshire campaigner Ron Beaty.
Mr Stevenson said the Scottish Government had previously had talks on the issue with the UK Government "without getting any sense that that would be a request which if made would be accepted". However, with the recent change in the UK Government and positive talks with the new Minister, this is something that Mr Stevenson and Schools Minister Keith Brown would work on.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
"Keith Brown, the Schools Minister, wrote to Mike Penning in June seeking to see what could be done in terms of legislative competence in terms of seatbelts.
"I think we`ve subsequently become aware of what has happened in Wales and how that competence has been given there.
"I`ve been discussing that this morning with the Minister from the UK Government and I think it is clear that is an area where we can make significant progress in terms of taking forward school bus safety."
26 October 2010
MP & MSP Search To Find Lollipop Person Of The Year
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson and MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford have given their support to the Lollipop Person of the Year 2010 event sponsored by Kwik Fit Insurance which is to be launched later this month. The event will help to raise awareness of road safety issues and highlight the importance of lollipop people to children and schools.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr Stevenson said:
“Lollipop women and men deserve a huge amount of recognition for the work they do in regard to road safety and they are greatly respected and loved by the children that they help and also by their local communities. Their dedication to the children knows no bounds and they should be highly recognised for their efforts.
“I therefore urge for all schools within the constituency to get involved in this event, detailing why their lollipop person deserves this special award.”
Dr Whiteford added:
“School pupils can also, as well as casting their vote, explain why they are nominating their Lollipop person which can include drawings, poems, songs and videos.
“To all Lollipop women and men I wish good luck, with the successful person winning £500 and the school winning the grand prize of £3,000 to spend on school equipment. Finally, for those seeking additional information, please visit: http://www.bestlollipop.co.uk/”
Commenting on the initiative, Mr Stevenson said:
“Lollipop women and men deserve a huge amount of recognition for the work they do in regard to road safety and they are greatly respected and loved by the children that they help and also by their local communities. Their dedication to the children knows no bounds and they should be highly recognised for their efforts.
“I therefore urge for all schools within the constituency to get involved in this event, detailing why their lollipop person deserves this special award.”
Dr Whiteford added:
“School pupils can also, as well as casting their vote, explain why they are nominating their Lollipop person which can include drawings, poems, songs and videos.
“To all Lollipop women and men I wish good luck, with the successful person winning £500 and the school winning the grand prize of £3,000 to spend on school equipment. Finally, for those seeking additional information, please visit: http://www.bestlollipop.co.uk/”
25 October 2010
Stevenson Hails Funding For Banff & Buchan Fishing Industry
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the latest round of European Fisheries Fund (EFF) grants which see several businesses in Banff & Buchan receive funding to invest in new equipment. The money will help to improve profitability in the industry and secure jobs during a difficult time for the fishing industry.
Beneficiaries in Banff & Buchan include £165,790 for Peterhead based Lunar Freezing to add a new processing area within its existing cold store; £52,348 for Fraserburgh based Prime Seafoods to purchase and install a range of equipment; £21,540 for Macduff based Deveron Shellfish and £154,743 for Banff & Buchan College to provide advanced simulation training for fishermen.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“These are difficult times for the fishing industry, but I know that this latest funding will be warmly welcomed by those who benefit from it. The industry continues to support a significant number of jobs in Banff & Buchan and the sector is worth over £1 billion annually to Scotland’s economy.
“It is essential that the industry is supported in its efforts to grow and improve profitability and I am delighted that this support is being provided.
“Particularly welcome is the funding for Banff & Buchan College to provide advanced simulation training for fishermen. This will help new people into the industry and prepare them for the difficult job that fishermen do to put fish on our plates.”
Beneficiaries in Banff & Buchan include £165,790 for Peterhead based Lunar Freezing to add a new processing area within its existing cold store; £52,348 for Fraserburgh based Prime Seafoods to purchase and install a range of equipment; £21,540 for Macduff based Deveron Shellfish and £154,743 for Banff & Buchan College to provide advanced simulation training for fishermen.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“These are difficult times for the fishing industry, but I know that this latest funding will be warmly welcomed by those who benefit from it. The industry continues to support a significant number of jobs in Banff & Buchan and the sector is worth over £1 billion annually to Scotland’s economy.
“It is essential that the industry is supported in its efforts to grow and improve profitability and I am delighted that this support is being provided.
“Particularly welcome is the funding for Banff & Buchan College to provide advanced simulation training for fishermen. This will help new people into the industry and prepare them for the difficult job that fishermen do to put fish on our plates.”
19 October 2010
Firms to compete for Intelligent Transport System (ITS) contract on Forth Replacement Crossing
Leading construction firms are set to compete for the contract to deliver traffic flow technology along the M90 in Fife as part of the Forth Replacement Crossing (FRC) scheme.
They comprise Morrison Construction; John Graham; a Joint Venture between Sir Robert McAlpine and Costain; and Forthspan, a consortium comprising Morgan Sindall; Bam Nuttall; Balfour Beatty and MT Hojgaard
The Fife works will form part of a 14 mile (22 km) ITS corridor that extends from the M9 Junction 1 at Newbridge to the M90 Halbeath Junction. Overhead signal gantries along this corridor will aim to keep traffic moving smoothly by providing traffic, lane control and mandatory speed control and information to drivers via variable message signs (VMS).
Minister for Transport, Stewart Stevenson, said:
“The FRC project is a vital part of this Government’s efforts to accelerate recovery and safeguard sustainable economic growth by investing in Scotland’s transport infrastructure
“The ITS system is an essential part of the FRC proposals and will help manage congestion, improve the reliability of journey times across the Forth and reduce the likelihood and impact of accidents.
“This latest announcement further demonstrates the positive progress being made on the most significant infrastructure development in this country for a generation and that, subject to the approval of the Forth Crossing Bill by the Scottish Parliament, the project remains on schedule for delivery on time and within budget by 2016.”
Additional benefits include the refurbishment of the M90 southbound hard shoulder, enabling it to be used as a bus lane and limiting any impact of traffic queuing on public transport journey times.
Mr Stevenson added:
“The high level of competition for this latest contract also continues to demonstrate construction industry’s significant enthusiasm for the FRC project. This will ensure a field of high-quality, experienced candidates and continue to help us deliver the best value-for-money for the public purse.”
Transport Scotland received five prequalification submissions following the publication of the Contract Notice on 2 July 2010. The top four submissions were determined following an assessment of each applicant’s financial and technical capabilities.
It is intended that these four will enter into competitive dialogue with Transport Scotland in November to discuss their proposals, before submitting a final tender early in 2011. It is anticipated the award of the Fife ITS contract will then be made in May 2011 with construction expected to begin soon after.
They comprise Morrison Construction; John Graham; a Joint Venture between Sir Robert McAlpine and Costain; and Forthspan, a consortium comprising Morgan Sindall; Bam Nuttall; Balfour Beatty and MT Hojgaard
The Fife works will form part of a 14 mile (22 km) ITS corridor that extends from the M9 Junction 1 at Newbridge to the M90 Halbeath Junction. Overhead signal gantries along this corridor will aim to keep traffic moving smoothly by providing traffic, lane control and mandatory speed control and information to drivers via variable message signs (VMS).
Minister for Transport, Stewart Stevenson, said:
“The FRC project is a vital part of this Government’s efforts to accelerate recovery and safeguard sustainable economic growth by investing in Scotland’s transport infrastructure
“The ITS system is an essential part of the FRC proposals and will help manage congestion, improve the reliability of journey times across the Forth and reduce the likelihood and impact of accidents.
“This latest announcement further demonstrates the positive progress being made on the most significant infrastructure development in this country for a generation and that, subject to the approval of the Forth Crossing Bill by the Scottish Parliament, the project remains on schedule for delivery on time and within budget by 2016.”
Additional benefits include the refurbishment of the M90 southbound hard shoulder, enabling it to be used as a bus lane and limiting any impact of traffic queuing on public transport journey times.
Mr Stevenson added:
“The high level of competition for this latest contract also continues to demonstrate construction industry’s significant enthusiasm for the FRC project. This will ensure a field of high-quality, experienced candidates and continue to help us deliver the best value-for-money for the public purse.”
Transport Scotland received five prequalification submissions following the publication of the Contract Notice on 2 July 2010. The top four submissions were determined following an assessment of each applicant’s financial and technical capabilities.
It is intended that these four will enter into competitive dialogue with Transport Scotland in November to discuss their proposals, before submitting a final tender early in 2011. It is anticipated the award of the Fife ITS contract will then be made in May 2011 with construction expected to begin soon after.
18 October 2010
New Station Arrives in Time For Bathgate
The new Bathgate Station opened for business today (Monday, October 18) as preparations continue for the launch of the £300m Airdrie-Bathgate Rail Link this December.
The first element of the new, Network Rail-built, line to enter service, the station was officially opened by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson, and offers Bathgate’s rail passengers one of the most modern and accessible travel facilities in Scotland.
Today also marks the end of major construction work on the project, with the line now ready for the beginning of driver training ahead of the introduction of regular passenger services on December 12.
Constructed by Network Rail and funded by Transport Scotland, the route will allow passengers to travel direct from Helensburgh and Milngavie, in the west, to Bathgate and Edinburgh in the east.
Ron McAulay, Network Rail director Scotland, said:
“Purpose-built to meet the needs of the modern commuter, the new Bathgate Station will provide the travelling public with some of the best facilities available anywhere in Britain.
“With the new railway set to deliver a quick and regular service to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the new line further demonstrates the growing appeal of rail travel in Scotland and provides motorists with a genuine alternative to the daily car commute.”
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson added:
“Bathgate Station has been at the very heart of the community since the industrial revolution when it supported the local and national economy, to today where it sees over half a million passenger journeys a year.
“The Scottish Government is determined to see continued investment which will deliver sustainable economic growth for our communities and businesses, and today’s formal opening of the new Bathgate Station underlines that commitment.
“I’m delighted the new station will play a central role in the communities here in West Lothian and to the wider communities across the central belt when the Airdrie-Bathgate line reopens later this year.”
Facilities at the new station – which will be operated by ScotRail – include ticket office, waiting shelters, help points, cycle racks, pick up/drop off zone, taxi waiting areas, two bus stops and 400 parking spaces including 20 reserved for Blue Badge holders.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said:
"I am delighted to formally accept the handover of the station on behalf of ScotRail and its customers.
“It is only 400 metres away from the former station but offers so much more for our customers. I believe the station and the new line will be very popular and will encourage even more people to shift to train travel.”
The Airdrie-Bathgate Rail Link project has seen 15 miles of new track built to connect communities in West Lothian and North Lanarkshire restoring rail services after a gap of 50 years and connecting passengers to the country’s two biggest cities.
Bathgate and Drumgelloch stations have also been rebuilt as part of the project, with Livingston North and Uphall having been upgraded and three new purpose-built stations having been constructed in Armadale, Blackridge and Caldercruix.
The longest new passenger line in Britain for over a century, the rail link is expected to generate new socio-economic opportunities for those it serves and to help encourage motorists out of their cars, easing traffic on the M8.
The first element of the new, Network Rail-built, line to enter service, the station was officially opened by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson, and offers Bathgate’s rail passengers one of the most modern and accessible travel facilities in Scotland.
Today also marks the end of major construction work on the project, with the line now ready for the beginning of driver training ahead of the introduction of regular passenger services on December 12.
Constructed by Network Rail and funded by Transport Scotland, the route will allow passengers to travel direct from Helensburgh and Milngavie, in the west, to Bathgate and Edinburgh in the east.
Ron McAulay, Network Rail director Scotland, said:
“Purpose-built to meet the needs of the modern commuter, the new Bathgate Station will provide the travelling public with some of the best facilities available anywhere in Britain.
“With the new railway set to deliver a quick and regular service to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the new line further demonstrates the growing appeal of rail travel in Scotland and provides motorists with a genuine alternative to the daily car commute.”
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson added:
“Bathgate Station has been at the very heart of the community since the industrial revolution when it supported the local and national economy, to today where it sees over half a million passenger journeys a year.
“The Scottish Government is determined to see continued investment which will deliver sustainable economic growth for our communities and businesses, and today’s formal opening of the new Bathgate Station underlines that commitment.
“I’m delighted the new station will play a central role in the communities here in West Lothian and to the wider communities across the central belt when the Airdrie-Bathgate line reopens later this year.”
Facilities at the new station – which will be operated by ScotRail – include ticket office, waiting shelters, help points, cycle racks, pick up/drop off zone, taxi waiting areas, two bus stops and 400 parking spaces including 20 reserved for Blue Badge holders.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said:
"I am delighted to formally accept the handover of the station on behalf of ScotRail and its customers.
“It is only 400 metres away from the former station but offers so much more for our customers. I believe the station and the new line will be very popular and will encourage even more people to shift to train travel.”
The Airdrie-Bathgate Rail Link project has seen 15 miles of new track built to connect communities in West Lothian and North Lanarkshire restoring rail services after a gap of 50 years and connecting passengers to the country’s two biggest cities.
Bathgate and Drumgelloch stations have also been rebuilt as part of the project, with Livingston North and Uphall having been upgraded and three new purpose-built stations having been constructed in Armadale, Blackridge and Caldercruix.
The longest new passenger line in Britain for over a century, the rail link is expected to generate new socio-economic opportunities for those it serves and to help encourage motorists out of their cars, easing traffic on the M8.
15 October 2010
A75 dual carriageway opens early
A £6.5 million dual carriageway scheme on the A75 has opened to traffic, over two months ahead of schedule.
The 1.4 mile Cairntop to Barlae scheme will provide improved access to and from the west coast ports, supporting businesses, communities and tourism across south west Scotland and beyond.
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said:
“This early dual carriageway completion is great news for south west Scotland and the west coast ports.
“The A75 is a vital link connecting Cairnryan and Stranraer to the rest of Scotland and this £6.5 million scheme will now provide a dedicated overtaking opportunity, helping traffic flow and meaning quicker, safer journeys for the thousands of tourists, freight and local motorists who use this route each day.
“I am delighted to see this project completed so quickly, allowing these benefits to be realised much sooner than scheduled. This scheme also supports plans to relocate Stena’s port to Cairnryan, further enhancing these connections.
“The Scottish Government is committed to continued investment in the A75 and A77, with £35.5m of schemes completed and a further £53.5m earmarked for seven more projects along these key connecting routes.”
Alan Gordon, Stena Line’s Project Director for Loch Ryan Port added:
“We are delighted to see that Cairntop to Barlae scheme has now opened and ahead of schedule too.
“The A75 is a vital part of South West Scotland’s road infrastructure and will play a key role in helping to maximise the benefit of Stena Line’s new Loch Ryan Port opening in Autumn 2011.
“We would like to congratulate Minister Stevenson and his team for their speed of progress and look forward to the completion of the additional planned road upgrade schemes to and from the new port facility which will be of significant benefit to the local and national economy of Scotland.”
The contract was awarded in December last year and was originally scheduled to last 12 months. The road has therefore opened 10 weeks ahead of schedule.
The project, which was undertaken by RJ McLeod, has seen a new eastbound carriageway constructed on the site of a disused railway line, with the existing A75 becoming the new westbound route, giving both east and westbound dedicated safer overtaking opportunities.
The 1.4 mile Cairntop to Barlae scheme will provide improved access to and from the west coast ports, supporting businesses, communities and tourism across south west Scotland and beyond.
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said:
“This early dual carriageway completion is great news for south west Scotland and the west coast ports.
“The A75 is a vital link connecting Cairnryan and Stranraer to the rest of Scotland and this £6.5 million scheme will now provide a dedicated overtaking opportunity, helping traffic flow and meaning quicker, safer journeys for the thousands of tourists, freight and local motorists who use this route each day.
“I am delighted to see this project completed so quickly, allowing these benefits to be realised much sooner than scheduled. This scheme also supports plans to relocate Stena’s port to Cairnryan, further enhancing these connections.
“The Scottish Government is committed to continued investment in the A75 and A77, with £35.5m of schemes completed and a further £53.5m earmarked for seven more projects along these key connecting routes.”
Alan Gordon, Stena Line’s Project Director for Loch Ryan Port added:
“We are delighted to see that Cairntop to Barlae scheme has now opened and ahead of schedule too.
“The A75 is a vital part of South West Scotland’s road infrastructure and will play a key role in helping to maximise the benefit of Stena Line’s new Loch Ryan Port opening in Autumn 2011.
“We would like to congratulate Minister Stevenson and his team for their speed of progress and look forward to the completion of the additional planned road upgrade schemes to and from the new port facility which will be of significant benefit to the local and national economy of Scotland.”
The contract was awarded in December last year and was originally scheduled to last 12 months. The road has therefore opened 10 weeks ahead of schedule.
The project, which was undertaken by RJ McLeod, has seen a new eastbound carriageway constructed on the site of a disused railway line, with the existing A75 becoming the new westbound route, giving both east and westbound dedicated safer overtaking opportunities.
13 October 2010
Local MSP Urges Residents To Make Their Views Known On Maternity Services Review
Following the announcement by Grampian NHS of a review of maternity services across the region, Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson is urging people across the constituency to take part.
Commenting on the review Mr Stevenson said:
“Reviews and consultations will be occurring across a whole range of critical frontline services as public authorities try to get to grips with the major budget cuts coming from Westminster. It is extremely important that the views, experiences and comments of the people of Banff & Buchan are heard.
“Banff & Buchan has a history of strong support for Maternity Services, most notably with the successful campaign in Fraserburgh during 2006/2007 to retain maternity services at the town’s hospital. That hard fought campaign will undoubtedly be a spur to get responses in for the current review.
“I know that NHS Grampian’s Chief Executive, Richard Carey, is keenly aware of the importance that people here attach to local maternity services and I will be reinforcing that view as part of the consultation process.”
Commenting on the review Mr Stevenson said:
“Reviews and consultations will be occurring across a whole range of critical frontline services as public authorities try to get to grips with the major budget cuts coming from Westminster. It is extremely important that the views, experiences and comments of the people of Banff & Buchan are heard.
“Banff & Buchan has a history of strong support for Maternity Services, most notably with the successful campaign in Fraserburgh during 2006/2007 to retain maternity services at the town’s hospital. That hard fought campaign will undoubtedly be a spur to get responses in for the current review.
“I know that NHS Grampian’s Chief Executive, Richard Carey, is keenly aware of the importance that people here attach to local maternity services and I will be reinforcing that view as part of the consultation process.”
Stevenson Visits Rural Banffshire GP Practice
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson paid a visit to a rural medical practice this week. For the past couple of years, the British Medical Association (Scotland) has offered MSPs the opportunity to spend some time in a local GP practice in their constituency during the summer recess. After receiving extremely positive feedback from both MSPs and the GP practices involved, the BMA repeated the scheme this year.
The purpose of the visit is for MSPs to see first-hand the work of GP surgeries and to discuss the challenges and opportunities currently being faced by GPs and their teams both at a local and at a national level. Dr MacRae at the Gamrie Medical Practice in Gardenstown kindly hosted the visit from Mr Stevenson – which included a mini health-check for the MSP!
Speaking after his visit to the Gamrie Practice, Mr Stevenson said:
“This was an excellent opportunity to see the front line of our NHS.
“It is clear to me that the commitment of GPs to meeting the needs of rural patients is high. Despite the ever increasing call on our GPs’ time, practices such as the one at Gamrie are extremely effective at meeting the needs of patients in their own communities.
“On a lighter note, it confirmed that despite a heavy workload, my blood pressure is still under control!
“I should like to publicly thank Dr MacRae and his team for hosting my visit, which I found very worthwhile indeed.”
The purpose of the visit is for MSPs to see first-hand the work of GP surgeries and to discuss the challenges and opportunities currently being faced by GPs and their teams both at a local and at a national level. Dr MacRae at the Gamrie Medical Practice in Gardenstown kindly hosted the visit from Mr Stevenson – which included a mini health-check for the MSP!
Speaking after his visit to the Gamrie Practice, Mr Stevenson said:
“It is clear to me that the commitment of GPs to meeting the needs of rural patients is high. Despite the ever increasing call on our GPs’ time, practices such as the one at Gamrie are extremely effective at meeting the needs of patients in their own communities.
“On a lighter note, it confirmed that despite a heavy workload, my blood pressure is still under control!
“I should like to publicly thank Dr MacRae and his team for hosting my visit, which I found very worthwhile indeed.”
12 October 2010
Stevenson Welcomes Banff & Buchan Lottery Boost
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the latest announcement by Awards for All, which sees three schools and three local organisations obtaining substantial awards totalling more than £40,000. Awards For All provide grants to those involved in art, sport, heritage and community activities, and projects that promote education, the environment and health in the local community.
Gardenstown Playschool (£4,113), Clerkhill School (£10,000) and Stuartfield School (£9530) will each receive substantial awards with some of the purchases including; an interactive white board and laptop and improvements and additions for the playgrounds.
Pitsligo Parish Church of Scotland's grant of £1,000 will enable the purchase of new stacking chairs, providing better facilities for the local community.
Aberdeenshire Council - Community Learning and Development's grant of £10,000 will contribute towards artist fees, set/props/costumes and fireworks, accommodation and workshop space, mentoring and training to help support young people in a range of theatre and performance skills.
Finally, Buchan IT and E-learning Service's grant of £7,000 will aid their pilot project to promote IT and Elearning for the older residents in sheltered housing complexes in the Central Buchan area of Aberdeenshire.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr Stevenson said:
"I'm delighted for the schools concerned as the awards are a substantial sum which will be put to good use.
"For the three local organisations that have been successful, I applaud their determination to secure funding and I trust that the users of the organisations will reap the benefits.
"I congratulate all the successful recipients on their efforts and I would urge other schools and organisations within the constituency to consider making an application.”
Gardenstown Playschool (£4,113), Clerkhill School (£10,000) and Stuartfield School (£9530) will each receive substantial awards with some of the purchases including; an interactive white board and laptop and improvements and additions for the playgrounds.
Pitsligo Parish Church of Scotland's grant of £1,000 will enable the purchase of new stacking chairs, providing better facilities for the local community.
Aberdeenshire Council - Community Learning and Development's grant of £10,000 will contribute towards artist fees, set/props/costumes and fireworks, accommodation and workshop space, mentoring and training to help support young people in a range of theatre and performance skills.
Finally, Buchan IT and E-learning Service's grant of £7,000 will aid their pilot project to promote IT and Elearning for the older residents in sheltered housing complexes in the Central Buchan area of Aberdeenshire.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr Stevenson said:
"I'm delighted for the schools concerned as the awards are a substantial sum which will be put to good use.
"For the three local organisations that have been successful, I applaud their determination to secure funding and I trust that the users of the organisations will reap the benefits.
"I congratulate all the successful recipients on their efforts and I would urge other schools and organisations within the constituency to consider making an application.”
8 October 2010
Stevenson Welcomes Big Lottery Fund Award To Banff Rock Challenge Group
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the latest announcement by the Big Lottery Fund, which sees Banff Rock Challenge Group obtaining the award of £1,960 from the 2014 Communities Programme.
Commenting on the news, Mr Stevenson said:
“It is great news to learn that Banff Rock Challenge Group has achieved this much sought after funding which can go a long way in securing their future.
“I know that this particular award will allow the group to purchase costumes and design a performance at the Global Rock Challenge in Aberdeen in February 2011, for which I wish them the best of luck.
“Once again, my congratulations go to Banff Rock Challenge Group on such welcoming news.
“I would urge other organisations in Banff and Buchan to apply for similar funding, the benefits of which can help new and existing projects alike.”
Commenting on the news, Mr Stevenson said:
“It is great news to learn that Banff Rock Challenge Group has achieved this much sought after funding which can go a long way in securing their future.
“I know that this particular award will allow the group to purchase costumes and design a performance at the Global Rock Challenge in Aberdeen in February 2011, for which I wish them the best of luck.
“Once again, my congratulations go to Banff Rock Challenge Group on such welcoming news.
“I would urge other organisations in Banff and Buchan to apply for similar funding, the benefits of which can help new and existing projects alike.”
Stevenson Encourages Entries For Creative Writing Competition
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has encouraged his constituents to enter the ‘see me’ national creative writing competition which has three categories: Short story, poetry or a tweet and it is open to anyone living in Scotland who is interested in writing.
Commenting on the competition, Mr Stevenson said:
“I would urge any interested constituents to get their thinking caps on and give this a go by stating what support means to you. This, by doing so, can help to inspire others.
“The theme of ‘Support’ is open to your own interpretation. Support is given and received by us all from family, friends, neighbours, teachers and colleagues in our everyday lives and I’m sure we can all recall an experience when support given has been crucial.
“Entrants should draw from their personal experiences or use their imagination for the competition and can enter their piece in one of the three categories of either a short story (max 1,500 words), a poem (max 500 words) or a tweet submitted via Twitter (max 140 characters).
“To all entrants I wish good luck and for those seeking additional information, including entry forms, they should visit: www.seemescotland.org.”
Commenting on the competition, Mr Stevenson said:
“I would urge any interested constituents to get their thinking caps on and give this a go by stating what support means to you. This, by doing so, can help to inspire others.
“The theme of ‘Support’ is open to your own interpretation. Support is given and received by us all from family, friends, neighbours, teachers and colleagues in our everyday lives and I’m sure we can all recall an experience when support given has been crucial.
“Entrants should draw from their personal experiences or use their imagination for the competition and can enter their piece in one of the three categories of either a short story (max 1,500 words), a poem (max 500 words) or a tweet submitted via Twitter (max 140 characters).
“To all entrants I wish good luck and for those seeking additional information, including entry forms, they should visit: www.seemescotland.org.”
6 October 2010
Stevenson Welcomes Progress In Fight Against Hospital Acquired Infections In Grampian
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the publication of new figures which show how hospital acquired infections (HAIs) have fallen since the election of the SNP Government.
There were 151 C-diff cases in Grampian during the last quarter the previous administration was in power, compared to 54 in the second quarter of 2010. MRSA cases have fallen from 22 at the end of the previous administration to just 1 case in Grampian in the last quarter.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
"The progress that these latest figures show is being made in the fight against Hospital Acquired Infections in Grampian is extremely encouraging and is testament to the determination of NHS Grampian staff to tackle the problem head on.
"In comparison to the complacency we saw on the issue under the previous Labour – Lib Dem administration, the SNP Government moved quickly upon taking office to conduct the biggest ever survey of where such infections are taking place and to establish a Healthcare Environment Inspectorate to carry out unannounced inspections of hospitals.
"The Scottish Government has also invested a record £50 million in tackling the problem and I am delighted to see that these measures are clearly having an effect.
"These actions combined with the hard work of NHS staff are why we are seeing real progress after the complacency of the previous administration. These figures are extremely welcome and I am optimistic we will see further progress in the future."
There were 151 C-diff cases in Grampian during the last quarter the previous administration was in power, compared to 54 in the second quarter of 2010. MRSA cases have fallen from 22 at the end of the previous administration to just 1 case in Grampian in the last quarter.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
"The progress that these latest figures show is being made in the fight against Hospital Acquired Infections in Grampian is extremely encouraging and is testament to the determination of NHS Grampian staff to tackle the problem head on.
"In comparison to the complacency we saw on the issue under the previous Labour – Lib Dem administration, the SNP Government moved quickly upon taking office to conduct the biggest ever survey of where such infections are taking place and to establish a Healthcare Environment Inspectorate to carry out unannounced inspections of hospitals.
"The Scottish Government has also invested a record £50 million in tackling the problem and I am delighted to see that these measures are clearly having an effect.
"These actions combined with the hard work of NHS staff are why we are seeing real progress after the complacency of the previous administration. These figures are extremely welcome and I am optimistic we will see further progress in the future."
5 October 2010
Stevenson Hails Step Forward For Carbon Capture In Scotland As Good News For Peterhead
Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has hailed the work of a group examining how Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) schemes in Scotland should be managed and coordinated. As a result of the efforts of Scotland’s Regulatory Review Group, Scotland is now better placed to process planning applications for CCS facilities and give power companies a clear idea of the regulations they must adhere to.
The work will now be taken forward by a new Project Monitoring Board to help monitor progress of CCS demonstration project applications, promote effective engagement with communities and meet the demanding timescales required under the UK and EU CCS funding competitions.
Peterhead power station recently revived plans to explore the possibility of developing a carbon capture test plant at the site after previous plans were shelved due to a lack of UK Government support in 2007.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“This work is a welcome step forward for the future of Carbon Capture and Storage in Scotland and as such is important for Peterhead power station.
“If power companies want to build Carbon Capture facilities then it is vital that there is a robust and responsive regulatory system in place that will enable them to do so. By examining how planning applications for such projects can best be managed, the work of this group is helping to prepare Scotland to realise the vast potential of CCS schemes.
“As well as bringing Scotland closer to meeting our world leading climate change targets, a successful Carbon Capture project at Peterhead will bring with it important economic benefits for the area.
“Scotland could have been leading the world in CCS technology if the pervious Westminster Government had not dithered over its support for the technology. However, with work such as this I believe that we are back on the right track and that Carbon Capture can play an important role for Peterhead and Scotland as a whole.”
The work will now be taken forward by a new Project Monitoring Board to help monitor progress of CCS demonstration project applications, promote effective engagement with communities and meet the demanding timescales required under the UK and EU CCS funding competitions.
Peterhead power station recently revived plans to explore the possibility of developing a carbon capture test plant at the site after previous plans were shelved due to a lack of UK Government support in 2007.
Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
“This work is a welcome step forward for the future of Carbon Capture and Storage in Scotland and as such is important for Peterhead power station.
“If power companies want to build Carbon Capture facilities then it is vital that there is a robust and responsive regulatory system in place that will enable them to do so. By examining how planning applications for such projects can best be managed, the work of this group is helping to prepare Scotland to realise the vast potential of CCS schemes.
“As well as bringing Scotland closer to meeting our world leading climate change targets, a successful Carbon Capture project at Peterhead will bring with it important economic benefits for the area.
“Scotland could have been leading the world in CCS technology if the pervious Westminster Government had not dithered over its support for the technology. However, with work such as this I believe that we are back on the right track and that Carbon Capture can play an important role for Peterhead and Scotland as a whole.”
1 October 2010
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change commends Small Ferries Project
With many of the vessels in service approaching or exceeding their target replacement of 25 years, the issue of maintaining and procuring new vessels and improving harbour infrastructure is key to ensuring that communities have access to lifeline ferry services which are reliable, convenient and affordable.
To ensure the continued provision of quality services, the partners have developed a Strategic Plan to help influence policy makers in the procurement of replacement ferry vessels, as part of their respective Governments’ policy commitments to supporting remote island communities.
The plan outlines a proposal for the development of a common vessel design and a cross-border collaborative approach to procuring replacement ferries, to deliver new vessels and associated improvements in harbour infrastructure. This approach would ensure cost savings in vessel procurement, allow shared expertise in researching new technologies and innovative funding mechanisms and flexibility in operation and maintenance of the fleet.
Eight routes were examined during the course of the project. However, it is anticipated that the project’s findings could potentially have wider reach and benefit for other routes in the three regions.
Commenting on the completion of the project, Chairman of CMAL, Grenville Johnston said:
“We are delighted to have been involved in the Small Ferries Project, working with our partners to develop a plan which we hope will help to ensure the provision of quality ferry services in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland.
“With demand for services set to increase over the coming years and tightened budgets, it is extremely important that we explore opportunities for collaboration, to ensure increased buying power, savings on administration and the cost of the vessels and shared learning that will help us to develop a more streamlined approach to ferry procurement and operation.”
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Stewart Stevenson added:
“The partners in the Small Ferries Project are to be commended for their collaborative cross-border approach in developing this plan which aims to improve and enhance ferry services for remote and island communities in Scotland and Ireland.
“The ferries provide a lifeline service and play a key role in supporting the economic and social vitality of these communities. Developing new methods for developing and procuring vessels will be critical to ensuring that quality services are maintained in these areas and I look forward to examining the report in more detail.”
The Small Ferries Project was part financed by the European Union’s Regional Development Fund through the INTERREG IVA Cross-border Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
