Commitment to Aberdeenshire Clear in SNP Manifesto, says Dennis Robertson

Local SNP Candidate Welcomes
"Most Ambitious Programme for Government Ever"

The SNP’s candidate for Aberdeenshire West, Dennis Robertson, has warmly welcomed the publication of the SNP’s manifesto for the 2016 election – after Nicola Sturgeon hailed it the “most ambitious programme for government ever” at the launch today.

The 76 page manifesto outlined a progressive prospectus for the next Parliament which included a commitment to deliver superfast broadband to 100% of Scotland by 2021; support for small businesses by slashing or abolishing business rates for almost 100,000 premises and providing support for the North East economy through the Energy Jobs Taskforce and a Transition Training Fund to help oil workers retrain to get jobs in other sectors, including the renewables sector.

Commenting, Dennis Robertson said:

“The SNP has achieved a great deal since taking office in 2007, but there so much more still to achieve. This manifesto outlines exactly how an SNP Government under the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister would make Scotland an even better nation.

“It is great to see that this manifesto is the most detailed and ambitious programme for government that we have ever published and the ideas and policies show a significant commitment to Aberdeenshire and the North East economy.

“Digital connectivity is a critical component in building our economy, and the SNP’s commitment today to deliver 100% super-fast broadband across Scotland by the end of the next Parliament will be great news to the people of Aberdeenshire West. Businesses and homes across the constituency won’t be left behind as we move in to the truly digital age.

“Thriving local businesses and a strong North East economy was at the heart of the manifesto. The Energy Jobs Taskforce has continued to offer practical assistance to help companies, coupled with the apprenticeship guarantee and a £12.5m innovation fund to help the oil and gas industry seek new opportunities are just a few of the policies which will ensure good stewardship of a great Scottish industry.

“A £12m training fund to help oil workers retrain to get jobs in other sectors will improve employment prospects and support people in to new roles in the renewables sector – a successful and important industry in Aberdeenshire West.

“It is clear, from these policies and those that will improve health, education and the lives of children that the SNP have a real, progressive plan for Government – something that is lacking from the other parties that seem to be more concerned with fighting for second place. Both votes for the SNP will ensure that Nicola Sturgeon is returned as First Minister and that we can start to get down to governing.”

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SNP Politicians Welcome Application to the EU Solidarity Fund

Dennis Robertson MSP, Stuart Donaldson MP and Councillor Geva Blackett have today welcomed the news that UK Government will apply to the EU Solidarity Fund to help communities who were affected by the recent flooding.

Stuart Donaldson, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, initially asked the UK Government to consider an application early in January, however it was only on 25th February, and with the deadline looming on the 27th February, that they confirmed an application would be made. The European Commission had previously confirmed that the UK would be eligible to help from the fund, which was set up to respond to natural disasters to help and support member states in recovering from them.

Aberdeenshire Council have confirmed that they are looking at a bill of around £7.6 million for all the required repairs following the damage caused by Storm 'Frank', and the subsequent flooding across the area.

The Scottish Government has given £2 million to the local authority, with just under half of that amount already issued to households and businesses through the £1,500 and £3,000 payments under the Scottish Government Relief Fund.

Dennis Robertson, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, said:

“The money from the Scottish Government is very much welcomed across Aberdeenshire, and it is great to hear that the grants to individuals and businesses are being paid out quickly to ensure that those affected can get back on their feet as swiftly as possible.

“Unfortunately, many communities across Aberdeenshire were hit, meaning that Aberdeenshire Council face an enormous repairs bill, and any further financial assistance will help to ensure that the local authority don’t have to meet the entire burden of that cost.

“Whilst it is disappointing that it has taken so long for the UK Government to agree to make such an application, I hope that it can now be done and processed quickly so these communities can be rebuilt and open for business again as soon as possible.”

Commenting, Stuart Donaldson MP said:

“I have raised the issue of an application to the EU Solidarity Fund a number of times in Parliament so the announcement was welcome, but long overdue.

“I am still awaiting a full response from the government about which agencies they have been working with locally to ensure that sufficient money is applied for, and that those in flood affected communities across West Aberdeenshire & Kincardine get the support they need.”

Councillor for Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside, Geva Blackett, added:

“Stuart, Dennis and I have worked solidly together at all levels of Government on behalf of our constituents.

“I was astounded to learn from Reuters that EU officials were perplexed as to why they had not been approached by the Westminster government for funds, when so many people throughout my Ward have been flooded out of their homes and businesses. Upon hearing this, I immediately spoke with Stuart, who has repeatedly raised this issue on behalf of the people of Ballater and Aboyne in particular.

“I am so pleased that his diligence has paid off, and look forward to further funding to help this hard hit area.”

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Rise in Payday Loan debt Concerning

SNP MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Dennis Robertson, has expressed concern about new data recently released by StepChange Debt Charity that shows a dramatic rise in the number of people in Aberdeenshire seeking help with their payday loans. The charity noted an increase in the number of their clients in the Aberdeenshire area seeking counselling for their payday loan debt from 13% in 2012 to 23% in the first three month of 2013. They further noted an increase in the average amount owed in the form of payday loans from £938 in 2011 to a peak of £1,916 in 2012 before settling at £1,350 in March of this year.

StepChange, which was previously known as The Consumer Credit Counselling Service, provides advice to those suffering from the burden of excessive debt. The increase in the number of their clients who were seeking help with payday loan debt was recorded in almost all of Scotland’s 32 local authority areas. Eighteen of these areas had experienced increases of 10% or more and three of those had experienced an increase of more than 20% in the last year.

StepChange’s data showed that the average monthly income of clients who were seeking help with their payday loan debt was £1,268 in 2012, but that the average amount owed by those clients was £1,665. With Annual Percentage Rates that were in some cases reported to be as high as 4,214% (The Guardian) this kind of debt can quickly become crippling and undermine the financial security of those who are unable to repay them on time.

To address the growing issue StepChange has launched a new section on its website that is dedicated to individuals seeking advice for their payday loans. It includes information about where to get help with payday loan debt, a brand new guide, the latest statistics, an informational video on payday loans, suggestions for alternative sources of credit, and a page where consumers can talk about their own payday loan experiences.

Dennis Robertson MSP said:

“The drastic rise in payday loan debt across Scotland is very troubling as this form of debt is extremely expensive and can quickly become unmanageable. Although some measures have been taken to regulate the payday loan sector the issue is currently up for debate and much more still needs to be done.”

“I would like to encourage anyone who is struggling to repay their payday loans at the end of the month to take control of their situation and seek advice from a debt charity. By allowing this type of debt to roll over consumers can quickly become overwhelmed by the aggressive penalties charged by payday loan centres.”

“Organisations like StepChange can provide individuals who do not believe that they will be able to make their payments with alternatives that can potentially save them from a flood of avoidable debt.”

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Mr Q - A Year in the Life: Roving Reporter Publishes Extracts of his Memoirs

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT’S TOP DOG RECALLS THE BEST BITS OF 2012
When Mr Q set up a Twitter account a little over a year ago, his boss Dennis Robertson MSP had no doubts that his four legged friend’s nose for news would be an instant success.

It’s not easy always tweeting with paws, but Mr Q has racked-up nearly 500 followers and made new friends along the way.

Now – as a special Christmas treat - the roving reporter is kindly sharing extracts from his memoirs with us. They give a unique insight not only into the work of a guide dog, but also into the work of an MSP.

Commenting, Dennis Robertson – MSP for Aberdeenshire West - said:

“Mr Q may love the attention he gets around Parliament, but he really is an excellent guide dog – the best I’ve ever worked with.

“He’s been a little bit shattered recently – he is after all six-years-old which is a fair age for a working dog. But rest assured, he’ll get a good rest over the Christmas holidays.

“As these extracts from his diaries show, Mr Q has a unique insight on life in the Parliament, and I’m sure that when he leaves Parliament, his memoirs will become an instant bestseller.”

Mr Q added:

“What a year 2012 has been for the most handsome dog working at Scottish Parliament. I have selected some of my tweets to give you an insight into my busy life guiding my best friend, Dennis Robertson MSP.”

January

I've got the old harness back on today - I'm back at work in the Scottish Parliament. But to be honest it is nice to see my pals and get spoilt!

I've had 1,000s of paw-mails to get through.

On Monday Dennis and I visited Old Rayne Primary - I could hardly move for attention!

I was in Ballater this morning anticipating cold paws, but was pleased that it was a toasty 8 degrees.

Just back from a fantastic Energy forum. Youngsters presented their view of the Energy industry to high powered audience.

On our way home I was forced to leave the pavement - due to a van being parked on it!

Going to a book launch tomorrow in Deeside: Man, Dog, Stroke, Musings of a Deeside Whippet (Hamish) and His Master (Eric)… looks good, eh?!

If Dennis would remember to put the light on I'd know who's coming into the office.

Exciting day in the Parliament. I listened to the historic Your Scotland Your Referendum speech… Also, I've been busy working on my new signature. I love working for Dennis but independence is good, even for dogs.

February

Would you believe, the other day, on the train down from Stonehaven someone dropped their smart phone, right on my nose. Oooch… I noticed hundreds of apps on his phone, but none about dogs. However, I did see that he had fewer followers on Twitter than I do!

Looking forward to Linda Fabiani MSP’s debate tomorrow on cutting VAT on food for working dogs. Linda is working to help us get a better meal deal.

Now off to get Dennis on the train home. A dog’s work is never done.

So proud of Dennis Today. He's my best friend

Dog tired today. Dennis had me out past midnight. He says thanks for all your kind support.

My master's voice is on the Call Kaye phone-in BBC Radio Scotland this morning from 8.50am I'll be listening.

March

Dennis is very quiet today. We're going home for a toddy & some Lemsip. Hope I don't catch man flu. Woof.

Back to The Royal Blind School with Dennis today. Fantastic teachers and pupils, upstaged the boss, but I always do. Woof woof.

One more day to go before Hugo the guide dog & Chris are at East Kilbride shopping centre. Hugo has a Facebook page.

I love the Bard, this is my favourite ‘My Love is Like a Red Red Bone’.

Hey everybody, my pups are trending on twitter. It's National Puppy Day.

I was a Hot Dog yesterday 23.4C in Aboyne. Edinburgh is positively polar today at 20C. Just as well I have a gorgeous fur coat!

April

I thought the media scrum outside the Parliament this morning was for me, hope I haven't been Trumped by the Donald!

BrewDog awarded Bar Operator of the Year prize. You can Punk your Dog here: http://www.punkdog.com

May

Hi everybody, busy as usual. Had a great night last night with Kate Higgins of Children 1st. But why didn't anyone drop their canapés? Woof.

If any of you want me to take up any dog matters, just let me know before Dennis.

Dennis accompanied me to a meeting with the parliament CEO & staff today to make sure all my needs are met.

Woof, Woof! Please say yes. http://www.yesscotland.net/declaration I'm adding my paw print.

I had a great time visiting farm communities on the Isle of Bute with my new best friend, Ross Fairburn. Loads of new smells!

Hope that my MSP colleagues turnout to meet Billy, Scotland's only fire investigation dog tomorrow. Good nose, but I'm better looking.

June

It's National Microchipping Month and here are just a few MSPs who have turned out to support us. We're precious.

Yesterday I got to fly to London with Dennis who was speaking at Vision UK Conference. Explained the different NHS approach in Scotland…

I am also proud to say I was pronounced the handsomest dog on the panel which also included David Blunkett and Sadie.

Here's Dennis & I at the Scotch Whisky Association Centenary with the Makar, Liz Lochhead.

Hi folks! Sorry not been tweeting much recently - rumours about it being "a dog's life" are not true in this working dog's life!

Only kidding all is well. Between the heavy showers I had a great time at the Royal Highland Show which was a bit like being back at Parliament...

July

I’m seeing the Queen at today’s garden party at Holyrood. I’m sure she will be impressed!

Visiting doggie dentist tomorrow for a teeth clean so I'll be out of it all day. See me at the Echt Show with my dazzling smile on Saturday.

It's great to be having a staycation in Aberdeenshire.

August

Woof! What a great summer... Welcome to all my new followers. Has anyone any great summer stories they can share?

I'll tell you all my news over the next few days (when Dennis reminds me). I'd tell you now but I need to paws and rest.

Dennis & I will be on the BBC Big Debate tomorrow on Radio Scotland. Looking forward to meeting Tannadice Lad Brian Taylor.

September

There are some things you can do to celebrate Scottish Animal Week. Check out the cute kitten. Not as cute as me!http://www.scottishspca.org/events/show/173

We're helping to raise awareness for Breast Cancer. Check out my pink Stetson ya'll!! Dennis looks quite good as well.

October

Great day to be leading the pack & raising awareness for Guide Dogs Week. Looking forward to meeting some other hot dogs and cool cats!

Cool. Dennis and I are "The Big Picture" on the BBC homepage.

I am supporting the Guide Dog Buddy Pilot and Dennis just signed a motion in the Scottish Parliament supporting it too.

Looking forward to meeting old friends and new at the SNP Conference in Perth this weekend. Dennis will be there too!

If you do see me at the conference (I will be the handsomest dog there) Please don't feed me no matter how irresistible I look…Just so you know, dropping your sandwich on the floor in front of me is considered feeding. But I can have REAL doggy biscuits.

Princess Anne told me that I was VERY handsome tonight. We are celebrating the Jubilee Woods.

Emeli Sande from Alford wins Q Awards, sorry I could not make it.

I’m having specially brewed 'dog beer' with my dinner tonight to celebrate my 6th birthday... Glad to say there is no guiding afterwards although I’ve been told there’s no alcohol in the beer. Great to get a night off!

November

I could not say no to Specsavers' invite, they recently pledged to raise £250,000 for Guide Dogs.

Glad to see the guy with the cute Portuguese Water dog won the US election and not the guy who left his dog on top of his Cadillac.

Dennis & I will be on Newsnight Scotland tonight at 10:30. I'll be the handsome one.

Today we signed a motion for Marco Biagi MSP to support Staffies in need. We think they are cute but not as handsome as me.

Woof! Dennis just won the Donald Dewar Debater of the Year award. Do they make doggie champers?

December

Went to the Vet on Friday, he says I'm dog tired so Dennis is going to make sure I take it easy this week. Woof.

We're supporting the Dog's Trust 12 Strays of Christmas after their visit to Parliament.

At Logie Coldstone Trust Christmas Fair in Tarland, met Santa and he knows Dennis!

Looking forward to go to Logie Primary school next week.

Merry Christmas to all my followers from Mr Q on Twitter!

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TAQA Investment Hailed by Local MP

The announcement that oil firm TAQA has agreed to purchase assets in the North Sea belonging to BP for $1 billion has been hailed by local MSP Dennis Robertson.

Abu Dhabi headquartered TAQA - whose UK office is based in Westhill - is expected to increase their net production by 21,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day once the purchase is complete.

The development comes as a new report from Scottish Enterprise anticipates that 86 new oil & gas fields will begin development in the North Sea by 2016, with investment of £44 billion expected.

Commenting, SNP MSP Dennis Robertson whose constituency includes Westhill said:

“This is a real signal of intent from TAQA and underlines their determination to remain a significant player in the North Sea oil & gas sector.

“It is a significant boost to Westhill and to the wider region that TAQA has committed itself to the North Sea industry in the long term.

“The move lends significant weight to Scottish Enterprise’s predictions of the substantial activity and investment that their report anticipates will take place in the North Sea in coming years.

“I am delighted at this news and what it will mean for the company."

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Davidson and Lamont Have Still Failed to Correct Their Own Errors

 MORE LABOUR ERRORS MADE IN DEBATE
Opposition parties are on very dangerous ground with their accusations that SNP MSPs have misled Parliament, an SNP MSP has said, after the Labour and Tory leaders have still failed to correct their own errors in the Scottish Parliament’s Official Report.

And Labour gave more inaccurate information in the Chamber yesterday when James Kelly claimed the Scottish government have 250 spin doctors – when publicly available information shows that claim to be false.

Yesterday it was revealed that both Johann Lamont and Ruth Davidson have made demonstrably inaccurate claims in the Chamber – but neither of them has made any attempt to set the record straight. This comes after First Minister Alex Salmond wrote to Official Report to have a figure corrected when he was made aware of an error.

The SNP can also reveal that, since new rules for Members for correcting inaccurate contributions were introduced in October 2011, only SNP MSPs have ever bothered to correct errors.

The events come as former Labour First Minister Henry McLeish today said that “Labour should stop hating the SNP."

The SNP have today repeated their call for both leaders to immediately contact Official Report to correct their own inaccuracies, and called on James Kelly to do the same.

SNP MSP Dennis Robertson said:

“Nobody likes hypocrisy, and Ruth Davidson and Johann Lamont are both on very shaky ground.


“Both Alex Salmond and Mike Russell have corrected their mistakes and apologised to members – but the response from opposition members has simply been ever-more outrageous allegations, name-calling and abuse – which has even boiled over into attacking the Presiding Officer. Even Henry McLeish is now saying that Labour have gone way too far.


“Michael McMahon became the poster-boy for this week’s shenanigans, when he attacked the institution of the Parliament which he claims he is trying to defend.


“Since the new procedures were introduced, not a single opposition Member has ever bothered to correct their own mistakes. This is despite the fact that Ruth Davidson and Johann Lamont have each made demonstrably incorrect claims at First Minister’s Questions.


“Now another Labour member has misled the chamber - will Johann Lamont ask them to correct the record?


“Unfortunately for Labour, the rules on accuracy apply to their MSPs as well as government ministers.


“Both Ruth Davidson and Johann Lamont must follow Alex Salmond’s example and take action today to correct their mistakes – otherwise they and the parties they lead can have no credibility."

Notes:

1. Corrections to the Scottish Parliament Official Record are published here:

http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/43105.aspx

No opposition politician has ever corrected the record.

2. Henry McLeish’s comments can be read here:

http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/labour-should-stop-hating-snp-says-henry-mcleish-1-2653269

3. Yesterday in the Chamber Labour MSP James Kelly said:

“The Scottish Government has over 250 spin doctors"

As the following Freedom of Information request shows this is not correct:

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/0039/00393512.pdf

Q - The number of media or press officers who work for your organisation in Scotland?

A - There are currently 38.5 (Full-Time Equivalent) Communications specialists in the core Scottish Government who deal with journalists as a significant part of their job. The majority of these individuals (35.5) are permanent Scottish Government employees and the balance (3) are temporary staff who are covering vacancies; e.g. where permanent staff have left the SG and we are in the process of backfilling their posts or where we have permanent staff on maternity leave. (The comparable figure for 1st May 2006 was 40.5, which included one temporary member of staff.)

4. Opposition leader’s inaccuracies in the Chamber:

(A) JOHANN LAMONT CLAIMS ON FORTH CROSSING STEEL COSTS

(Official Report, 9 February 2012) Johann Lamont … Alex Salmond went to China and pulled off a master deal—the Chinese got an £800 million steel contract and we got two pandas…

(Official Report, 9 February 2012) Johann Lamont: … Alex Salmond is spending £800 million on steel—[Interruption]—and from that contract not a single job is being created in Scotland, at a time when 200 people are losing their jobs every day.

The total value of the principal contract for the Forth replacement crossing is £790 million, of which the steel component actually represents 5 to 10 per cent.

She has not corrected the record or acknowledged her comments misled Parliament.

Construction is supporting 1,200 direct jobs with more in the supply chain.

(B) LAMONT CLAIMS ON NHS STAFF NUMBERS

(Official Report, 4 September 2012) Johann Lamont … There are now fewer staff in the NHS than there were when he became First Minister; more than 5,500 staff members have been cut from the payroll, almost 2,500 of whom are nurses.

Not true. The June 2012 statistics published on 28 August 2012 by ISD show there are 3,574.3 WTE more staff in the NHS than there where when the FM took office.

(C) RUTH DAVIDSON COLLEGE CLAIMS

(Official Report: 15 November 2012) Ruth Davidson: I will give a few examples of courses that are now no longer available under the education secretary’s stewardship: higher national certificate in diagnostic imaging—gone; higher national diploma in human resource management—gone; HND in technical support—gone; HND in network computing—gone; qualifications in healthcare and nursing—gone. Mike Russell has labelled those subjects 'hobbies', which they are anything but."

HND Technical Support

Colleges running same course:

Kilmarnock College
City of Glasgow College
Cardonald College
Langside College
Anniesland College
North Glasgow College
Edinburgh College
Forth Valley College
West Lothian College
Aberdeen College
Stow College
Cumbernauld College
Dumfries & Galloway College
Reid Kerr College – HND Computing Technical Support
James Watt College – NC Computing Technical Support
Adam Smith College
Lews Castle College

College that offers a similar course or includes a module that covers it:

Angus College
Perth College

HND Network Computing

Colleges running same course:

City of Glasgow College
Edinburgh College
Stow College
Adam Smith College

Colleges that offers a similar course or includes a module that covers it:

Cardonald College – HND Networking with Forensic Security
Anniesland College – covered in HND Technical Support
Forth Valley College – HND Computing: Technical Support (Includes Microsoft Certification)
West Lothian College – HNC Computing
Motherwell College
Dumfries & Galloway

HND Human Resources

College running same course:

City of Glasgow College

College that offers a similar course or includes a module that covers it:

Inverness College – CIPD Human Resources Practice and HNC Business
Edinburgh College – CIPD Intermediate Diploma in Human Resources Management
Cardonald College – HND Business
Langside College – HND Business
Anniesland College – HND Business
North Glasgow College – Business Foundation Degree
Forth Valley College – HND Business
West Lothian College – HND Business
Ayr College – HND Business Management
Kilmarnock College – HNC Administration and IT
Perth College – Business HND
Stow College – HND Business
Clydebank College – HND Business
Carnegie College – CIPD Certificate of HR Practice

HNC Diagnostic Imaging

Colleges that offers a similar course or includes a module that covers it:

Stow College – Access to Health Studies: Radiography
Perth College – Applied Sciences: Pathway to Medicine HNC

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Number of Scottish Businesses at Highest Level Since 2000

Figures released today show the number of businesses in Scotland is at its highest level since 2000 - with a 10 per cent increase in companies on the previous year.

Commenting SNP MSP for Aberdeenshire West Dennis Robertson, who is the deputy convener of the Scottish Parliament's Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee, said:

"To see any rise in the number of businesses - let alone by 10% - would be encouraging during this tough economic climate.

"So these figures showing the number of Scottish businesses at its highest level in over a decade are extremely positive.

"The SNP is committed to encouraging growth in Scotland, which is why we pledged to maintain the Small Business Bonus Scheme for the life of this parliament.

"The substantial savings that small and medium businesses are making on their rates bills can help give them the competitive edge that is so important in the current economic climate.

"Although these are good statistics there is always more that can be done to boost our economy.

"Scotland already controls business rates and we have the most competitive rates in the UK.

"When you look at what we have achieved with control of this tax, imagine what we could with access to the full economic levers of an independent country.

"We would design a system tailored to Scotland's needs and Scotland's interests to help our businesses truly prosper."

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SNP MSPs Welcome Progress On Inveramsay Improvements

Dennis Robertson MSP and Alex Salmond MSP have welcomed an announcement from Transport Scotland that the improvements at Inveramsay Bridge have moved a step closer to being delivered.

Following public consultation last October, the “road over rail river route” option has now been chosen to progress this key infrastructure upgrade.

A £5 million Scottish Government investment, announced in February as part of budget consequentials, will enable works to get underway on this multi-million pound scheme.

Dennis Robertson, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, said:

“I am pleased a design has now been selected to carry out these important improvements to the A96 bottleneck at the Inveramsay Bridge. I look forward to the completion of this work, which will allow my constituents, and those visiting my constituency, to do so without the delay at the traffic signals.

“This was recognised by the Scottish Government as a vital issue affecting those living and working in Aberdeenshire and, as such, they remain committed to delivering the improvements within this parliamentary term.

“After years of inaction from previous administrations, the SNP Government is making significant progress on this upgrade that will improve business links and promote economic growth in the area.

“The fact we are delivering on this important route in the face of huge Westminster cuts, is testament to our commitment to improving this stretch of road.

"The changes will benefit everyone, from individuals to businesses, and I am delighted that another step has been taken in this essential project.”

MSP for Aberdeenshire East, Alex Salmond, added:

“These vital works will see improved journey times and reduced congestion for commuters and businesses alike, and I am delighted that we are a step closer to seeing the upgrade take shape.

“After the well attended public consultation, the chosen option will bring increased safety, keep disruption on the current route to a minimum and also deliver the best value for the public purse.

“After years of inaction by the previous administration and after almost 30 years of Lib Dem representation in the constituency, the news that the improvements are due to get underway during this parliamentary term, subject to the completion of statutory processes, will be welcome news in the area.

“These much needed improvements are now being delivered as a result of the Scottish Government’s commitment to the project and everyone who uses the A96 to enter and leave my constituency will benefit from the smoother traffic flow and reduced journey times.”

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Salmond Delighted at Robertson Selection

Local Gordon MSP, Alex Salmond, has today given his full backing to the new SNP candidate for Aberdeenshire West for the 2011 Scottish Elections, Dennis Robertson.

Mr Robertson’s selection was announced at a special rally for SNP candidates during the party’s Annual Conference in Perth this weekend. Mr Robertson will fight for the new constituency, which was redrawn following a Boundary Commission review.

The new constituency will take in areas currently in the Gordon constituency, such as Huntly, Insch and Kintore. The rest of the constituency from Braemar and Alford to Westhill, Banchory and Drumoak is similar to that of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine.

At the last Scottish election, the SNP increased its share of the vote in the area by a massive 12.1%.

Congratulating Mr Robertson, Mr Salmond said:

"I can think of no finer candidate for this seat, and no finer representative for this area than Dennis Robertson.

"Dennis knows this area and its people like the back of his hand. He is familiar with the concerns that North East residents have about the future, and they are concerns he shares. Like local taxpayers, Dennis doesn’t want to see our council tax go up, and as West Aberdeenshire’s MSP he would be part of a team of SNP MSPs that will freeze the council tax for a further two years.

"Dennis will bring energy and experience to the coming campaign. From campaigning and working with Dennis on many occasions, I know him to possess a tremendous work ethic, and a real desire to make Scotland better.

"At the last election in 2007 we increased our share of the vote by an impressive percentage. The Lib-Dems should be under no illusions – this is a seat we can win, and Dennis will be fighting to win."

Mr Robertson added:

"It is a privilege to be selected to fight for an area so close to my heart. I am ambitious and optimistic about the future of the North East, and am proud to be part of an SNP team putting forward this positive message in the coming election.

"Since 2007 much has been achieved. Waiting times in the NHS are at a record low. Over 300 schools have been built or substantially refurbished. There are over 1000 extra police on our streets and, as a result, crime rates are at a 30 year low. And of course the Council Tax has been frozen now for three years, protecting family budgets.

"I can promise the people of Aberdeenshire West that I am against any increase in Council Tax during these hard times, and am delighted the SNP has promised to freeze the tax for the next two years.

"But there is still more to do. I will be campaigning for the changes that will allow Scotland to deliver economic growth and an alternative to London’s dismal decade of cuts. I will be putting the people of Aberdeenshire West at the heart of my activities, inviting them to join me and be part of making Scotland the better nation we all know it can be."

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Robertson & Dick Welcome Laurencekirk Regeneration Cash Boost

Joy as Mearns Town Nets £467,000 for Improvements
SNP Westminster candidate for West Aberdeenshire & Kincardine Dennis Robertson and Mearns SNP councillor Jean Dick have expressed their delight at the announcement that Laurencekirk has been successful in bidding for funding from the SNP Government's Town Centre Regeneration Fund.

A submission was put forward under the auspices of the Dickson Hall Trust and Minister for Housing & Communities Alex Neil MSP confirmed today that Laurencekirk's bid had been successful.

Local SNP councillor Jean Dick said:

"I'm delighted that Laurencekirk is set to benefit from this latest round of Scottish Government regeneration funding. The town centre has suffered in recent years, but this cash will help support new local initiatives and make some much-needed improvements.

"I am glad the SNP Government has recognised the importance of the town centre to the wider community, and is providing the support needed to move things forward. My congratulations go to all those in the Trust who were involved in the successful bid."

SNP Westminster candidate for West Aberdeenshire & Kincardine Dennis Robertson, added:

“The announcement of funding for the Dickson Hall is a fantastic boost for the Mearns. This is another example of an SN Government supporting a project which will meet the needs of the community of Laurencekirk and the surrounding area.

“After many years of under investment by the Labour/Lib Dem Executive, the SNP Government have a lot to be proud of in the Mearns. The re-opening of Laurencekirk station and the work to build a new Mearns Academy are further examples of real support which will improve the lives of people living in the Mearns.

“Recent criticism from Mike Rumbles about the lack of investment in the North-east is once again shown to be unfounded. Perhaps if he and others hadn’t voted to spend £500 million on the Edinburgh Tram project then there would be even more money available to spend locally.

“Even Mike Rumbles might just concede that this announcement is good for the people of the Mearns and the Government is to be congratulated!”

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