Logan Formally Adopted as Aberdeenshire North and Moray East Candidate

SNP Westminster candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East Cllr Seamus Logan has been formally adopted by the local SNP members as their candidate for the next UK General Election.

Seamus has been campaigning across the constituency since being selected last year but the political tradition of holding an 'Adoption Meeting' in this election year was continued last Friday at a well-attended event in the Station Hotel, Portsoy.

Aberdeen South MP and Leader of the SNP Westminster Group Stephen Flynn spoke at the event as did former Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson and Seamus Logan’s candidacy was unanimously approved by all present.

Speaking in Portsoy on Friday night, Seamus Logan said:

"I'm honoured to be the SNP candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East. The SNP's priority right now is protecting people from the worst effects of the current cost of living crisis, ensuring we have a controlled and just transition as the renewables industrial revolution gathers pace, offering an alternative and more energetic approach to the needs of our farmers and fishers; and protecting our vital public services, particularly the NHS.

“At the next General Election in this constituency the realistic choice will be between the Conservatives or the SNP. People here understand that we in the North-east can play our part in bringing an end to this incompetent, corrupt and heartless Tory Government by voting for the SNP.”

Former Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson said:

"In Seamus Logan, people can be sure that we will have an energetic and strong local voice to stand up for our vital interests. I am delighted that Seamus will be leading the campaign in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East for the SNP at the next UK election, whenever the election is called.

“I know that Seamus will work hard to earn the trust of voters in this constituency and build on the proud record of service provided to constituents by their SNP representatives at all levels – councillors, MSPs and MPs."

Westminster SNP Group leader Stephen Flynn MP added:

"People in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East have an SNP candidate in Seamus Logan that will bring a lifetime of public service in health and social care, as well as a strong record of standing up for constituents as a local councillor.

"Westminster's dire economic policies are failing communities right across Scotland who, through no fault of their own, are being forced to reckon with the soaring cost of living.

"And with Labour shamelessly tied to the Tory policies causing so much harm to Scottish households, it's abundantly clear they offer no real alternative.

"Seamus Logan joins a strong team of SNP candidates who will stand up for Scotland's values at Westminster while opposing the grim status quo and I look forward to working with him in the months ahead to bring that strong message to voters across Scotland."

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Coronavirus Update from Stewart Stevenson MSP

Statement and Q&A from the First Minister of Scotland

In line with advice provided by scientists to the Chief Medical Officer and the First Minister, as someone over 70 years of age, I am obliged to restrict my physical contact with others. I have been asked to stay at home and not attend Parliament for the time being.

This does not mean that I will be distancing myself from providing assistance to my constituents but does mean that for the time being we are not scheduling face to face surgeries and I shall not be attending public events.

The over 70s and vulnerable groups are also advised not to use public transport. However, I have concluded that with trains now running very empty it will be reasonably proper for me to travel offpeak home to Banffshire. Although I shall be in isolation at home I remain in contact with my staff and available by phone, text and email to them and to my constituents.

NHS24.scot is the first port of call for anyone who feels unwell or needs advice. In relation to the Cororavirus they are currently saying:

If you've developed a cough or fever in the last 7 days, stay at home for 7 days from the day your symptoms started.

Only phone your GP or 111 if your symptoms are severe.

Visit the coronavirus (COVID-19) page on NHS inform for the latest advice or phone 0800 028 2816.

I will update this page as required but as I am not qualified to provide medical advice. I shall assist you to find assistance or advice relevant to your personal situation.

In relation to social media comment, be careful! On Twitter trust only accounts which are marked as being verified. That is indicated by a blue spiky circle with a white tick which immediately follows the Account Name. Here's an example:

Be cautious where you do not immediately recognise the individual or organisation. It may even be a scam. Simply do not give any information away to false sites or in response to unsolicited telephone calls or emails.

---

**Message updated at 15:19 hrs, Tuesday, 17th March**

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MSP & Local Councillor Welcome Council Reversal on Bridges Closure

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson and Troup councillor Ross Cassie have welcomed Aberdeenshire Council’s decision to explore options for funding and replacing the road bridges in the King Edward area which were washed away in September 2019.

Roads officials had recommended to councillors on the Infrastructure Services Committee that the bridges not be replaced, but this recommendation was pulled just prior to the start of yesterday’s meeting.

Commenting on the decision, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

"I welcome this change of heart on the part of the council to not take a formal decision to close the affected roads and leave the bridges unbuilt.

"I wrote to Aberdeenshire Council in the days after the flood event last September offering to support any applications they may make for support from the Scottish Government and I will be reiterating that offer again following this decision.”

Local councillor Ross Cassie added:

"This decision is a testament to the strength of feeling within the local communities affected and the representations made by myself and others.

"Going forward, this is the start of a process and we need to work to maintain the connectivity of the area so it doesn't impact on school catchments, emergency and other services.”

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Local Councillor Glen Reynolds Hails Success of Fordyce Village Open Day

Banff & District SNP councillor Glen Reynolds has hailed the success of the Fordyce Village Open Day, held on Sunday.

The event, held each year, sees residents of the picturesque Banffshire village throw open their gardens to visitors, showing off tremendous displays of colour and hard work.

Commenting, Cllr Glen Reynolds said:

"People from all over Scotland as well as local families and many accompanied by their dogs, enjoyed as I did, the sunshine and warm welcome that greeted myself and colleagues Stewart Stevenson MSP and Cllr Ross Cassie on the annual Open Day in the beautiful village of Fordyce.

“There was something for everyone, from coffee to ice cream and pancakes, to gardens of residents made welcome to visitors, full of painstaking evidence of hard work in producing such splendid colours and flowers full of perfumed fragrance. And not to be forgotten, the church and grounds, fit for a painting from a bygone age.

“A great day had by all, ending with a warm welcome from The Old Kirk Cafe and Bistro with a menu full of fresh local seafood. It was a rare treat to talk to so many people in such stunning surroundings."

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Peterhead Focus at Towns Partnership Event in Parliament

Scotland’s Towns Partnership held a networking event in Parliament this week where Peterhead was well-represented. Rediscover Peterhead held a showcase of local products and local SNP councillor Stephen Smith and Stewart Stevenson MSP were both in attendance, with Cllr Smith taking the opportunity to brief Communities and Local Government Secretary Aileen Campbell MSP on regeneration efforts in Peterhead.

Commenting, Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“This was a very useful event with a range of towns from across the country present to highlight what they were doing to help protect our High Streets and foster regeneration.

“It was good to see Peterhead represented at this national event with John Pascoe and Clair Harwood from Rediscover Peterhead on hand to promote our town and the businesses within it.

“I was pleased to be able to meet with Communities and Local Government Secretary Aileen Campbell MSP and update her on progress. Aberdeenshire is to receive £3.2 million from the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Fund and I’m keen that some good ideas come forward from Peterhead as to how our share of that can be used locally.”

Communities Secretary, Aileen Campbell MSP said:

“Communities across Scotland are doing fantastic work in our towns. Whether it’s residents, businesses or local groups, it is communities who hold the knowledge and understanding of how their towns work and who have a long-term vested interest in getting things right. Their dedication, ambition and hard work has led to significant improvements in many of our towns.

“We continue to invest in community empowerment through a wide range of funds which support the regeneration of our towns. The Scottish Government is providing £50 million through the new Town Centre Fund 2019/20, set up in partnership with COSLA to enable local authorities to stimulate and support a wide range of investments to help our town centres diversify and flourish.”

Scotland’s Towns Partnership Chief Officer, Phil Prentice, said:

“The recent Scottish budget announcement providing £50 million for Town Centres to drive local economic activity and to stimulate and support place based economic improvements was a welcome respite against the challenging backdrop of ongoing retail closures and public sector shrinkage. We want our high streets and town centres across Scotland to be vibrant, creative, enterprising and accessible. These centres are at the heart of our communities and the lifeblood of our country so it is essential that we support them to become more diverse and sustainable.

“It is crucial that local and national Government continues to support the transition and evolution of Scotland’s small and rural towns given the challenges we face in business demographics and rural depopulation. As such, it is critical that a vision for our small and rural towns is at the centre of any Scottish economic strategy.”

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Councillor Stephen Smith & MSP Stevenson Highlight Opportunities for Local Businesses at Boddam Site

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith and Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson are highlighting opportunities for local businesses to benefit from contracts for the NorthConnect Converter Station to be built at Stirlinghill.

NorthConnect are set to hold two ‘Meet the Buyer’ days which will give potential local suppliers and businesses the chance to learn about the project, hear about the different packages involved and speak to the NorthConnect team directly as well as an opportunity for 1-2-1s for contracts involving the converter station, enabling works, cable laying, construction management, civils, engineering and supervision as well as peripheral economic opportunities locally.

The first will take place on Tuesday 29 May in Aberdeen and the second event will take place in Boddam on Wednesday 30 May. The event in Boddam will also include a short visit to the converter station site itself.

Commenting, Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“I’m delighted that NorthConnect are staging this event in Boddam. It will be an excellent opportunity for North-east businesses to meet with the company and see how they can potentially get contracts for the work which will be undertaken.

“NorthConnect have a very good track record in terms of their engagement with local communities and I am pleased to see this continue with local businesses.”

Stewart Stevenson MSP added:

“I very much welcome this event and commend NorthConnect for arranging it. There are a range of ways in which local businesses can get involved, ranging from cable installation to the new facility and construction, right down to general services which are required on any large construction operation.”

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MSP & Peterhead Councillors Urge Residents to Make Their Views Known on Minor Injuries Units Consultation

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson is urging constituents to make their views known as part of a consultation on Minor Injuries Units at local hospitals across Aberdeenshire.

Stewart Stevenson MSP with Cllr Anne Allan and Cllr Stephen Smith
at Peterhead Hospital

The review has been instigated by the Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership, a joint NHS Grampian/Aberdeenshire Council body and will take into consideration “location, demand, activity, practitioner competency and ongoing sustainability”.

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“I know from feedback that our local NHS facilities are greatly valued by constituents. I understand the need for the authorities to review the services they provide from time to time and I appreciate the opportunity to put forward my views and those of my constituents.

“My concern would be that any diminution in the service provided at local Minor Injuries Units would lead to further demands on the ambulance service or, indeed, local GPs. Clearly, we have a number of villages at the moment where provision of a GP service is a major issue. In addition, I am keen that nothing is done which would increase the pressure on the local ambulance service, who may be called upon to step in if access to the Minor Injuries Units was curtailed.

“I will be making my views known to the Aberdeenshire Health & Social Care Partnership and I urge constituents to do likewise.”

Peterhead South & Cruden SNP councillor Stephen Smith added:

"All the feedback I’ve had tells me that the Minor Injuries Unit is a valued facility and an essential service.

“It means that there is less pressure on services elsewhere and undoubtedly means that fewer ambulance call-outs are needed as a result of it being local and accessible.”

Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan said:

“We’re in the fortunate position of having our own ambulance service in the town and any reduction in service at the Minor Injuries Unit might lead to increased demand on other services. I would urge local residents to make their views known at the drop-in being held on 14 March.”

Information events are being held at Peterhead Football Club on 14 March, and Fraserburgh Sports & Community Centre on 21 March, all between 3.00pm and 7.00pm.

Further information can be obtained from Aberdeenshire Council on 03456 081203 or by e-mailing integration@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.

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Banff Councillor Supports RBS Shareholder Group's Call Over Better Governance

Banff & District SNP councillor Glen Reynolds has welcomed a drive by RBS shareholders last week to question key RBS decision making, not least over planned local branch closures.

Last week, and for the second year running, two individual shareholder associations have called on RBS to submit a resolution at its annual general meeting with a view to establishing a new shareholder committee which will aim to bring transparency to RBS decision making.

Commenting, Cllr Reynolds said:

"I understand their initial proposals were rejected on legal grounds by RBS last year, and the shareholder representatives said they had adjusted their proposals to address the bank’s concerns. I believe that 'ShareSoc' and the 'UK Shareholders’ Association' have or are about to submit a resolution on behalf of 136 investors in the bank, calling on RBS to establish a committee of shareholder representatives 'to improve the corporate governance and shareholder engagement'.

"The Westminster Government had turned its back on the idea of shareholder committees in response to its green paper on corporate governance reform in August, saying they “would be difficult to implement practically and could moreover undermine the UK’s unitary board system”. But they already exist in Sweden and work well, where investor representatives have formal powers to approve of or dispose of board members each year.

“In the UK by way of further example, Marks & Spencer decided in 2016 to set up a shareholder panel that invites a group of private investors to meet senior managers twice a year to discuss key issues. That needs to happen with RBS in order that a moral backbone has a role to play in what can otherwise be a simple accounting exercise that does not take into consideration or rural communities.”

Cllr Reynolds continued:

"There is a context to this welcome move. We need action on this and not just words, action that is sadly lacking from our local Westminster MP who limply talks of lessening pain on customers. However, RBS have replied to a letter from MSP Stewart Stevenson in December, in which they say they will 'not be revisiting the decision to close local branches', despite the opposition of loyal customers. They refer in the letter to an alleged cut in Banff 'transactions' at the branch of 33%, but I believe this decision is more about increasing profits at the expense of local need.

"There is more to this decision in terms of bad governance and a lack of stakeholder accountability than is being made public, which is why measures tackling accountability by the bank to key stakeholders, employees and shareholders, is a positive direction. Put crudely, the bank closures to date are a balance sheet exercise that lacks moral credibility which should protect local communities. It is the second time in nine months that the RBS, which is still majority government-owned, has announced branch closures as it attempts to cut costs and boost profits."

In March, RBS announced it was closing 158 local bank branches, following 191 closures over the previous two years. RBS will have cut more than one-third of its UK branch network since the start of the 2017.

Cllr Reynolds supports the stance taken by the Federation of Small Businesses, who said: "Many such businesses, particularly those in rural areas with poor broadband access — relied on their local bank branches to seek personal advice as well as to deposit their cash takings. It’s not just about transactions - small firms still hugely value the in-person support they receive at branches, particularly when it comes to completing complex transactions and making big financial decisions."

ShareSoc and UKSA said the current mechanisms for companies to consult their shareholders “create a very ‘messy’ backcloth in which to engage”. They added: “For example, in relation to remuneration proposals, there is often no clear trail from the initial proposal though to the final version voted on by shareholders.”

In conclusion, Cllr Reynolds stated:

"I hope such proposals will enhance our focus on strengthening the voice of employees and other non-shareholder interests at board level as an important component of running a sustainable business. An impact assessment and input by the local community should be incorporated into the decision-making process here as the transparency around this debacle is sadly missing."

RBS has been engaged in drastic restructuring for almost a decade since being bailed out by the UK government during the financial crisis.

Ross McEwan, chief executive, has promised the bank will return to profitability next year after a decade of losses. This would help the government achieve its aim of selling part of its stake in the lender by March 2019. RBS recently scraped through the Bank of England’s annual stress tests without needing to raise capital, giving analysts hope that next year it will be able to pay its first dividend since the crisis.

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Councillors Welcome Protection for Buchan Rail Link

SNP councillors Stephen Smith (South Peterhead & Cruden) and Rob Merson (Ellon & District) have welcomed a decision by the Directorate of Planning and Environmental Appeals to extend the protection of all sections of the former railway line that fall within the settlement boundary of Ellon. 

The site of the former railway station in Ellon has already been granted protected status in the 2012 Local Development Plan following a proposal tabled by Cllr. Merson in 2010.  This latest move by the Reporter in the 2017 Local Development Plan sees that protection further extended to facilitate the possible re-opening of a rail link to Buchan in the future.

The two councillors, who have campaigned for the reopening of the Formartine/Buchan rail link since being elected in 2007, recently convened a meeting with Scottish Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf and SNP MSPs, Stewart Stevenson (Banffshire & Buchan Coast) and Gillian Martin (Aberdeenshire East), at which they stressed the need for further improvements to the transport infrastructure of North Aberdeenshire following completion of the AWPR and dualling of the Balmedie-Tipperty section of the A90.

Cllr Smith, Minister Humza Yousaf MSP, Stewart Stevenson MSP, Cllr Merson (l to r)

Cllrs. Smith and Merson told the Minister that they supported the multi-modal transport survey being conducted Transport Scotland and Nestrans to assess the relative merits of a variety of forms of transport in North Aberdeenshire, from walking and cycling to the potential reintroduction of rail travel.  The Minister very much welcomed the representations being made by the elected members, and agreed that now was the right time to be asking those questions as the Scottish Government was looking towards future transport projects.

Cllr. Smith remarked:

“I believe that improving the transport infrastructure in North Aberdeenshire will most likely require a mix of solutions, and I am disappointed that some sectors of the Press had described the Report as a ‘Road versus Rail’ issue – which is not the case.

“While the former Formartine-Buchan railway line may not be the optimum route for a modern rail link in its entirety - much of it could be.  What we need to do is to identify what that route should be, and where rail stations should be – we need a red line on the map.”

Cllr. Merson added:

“I expressed the view at a joint meeting between Nestrans and Aberdeen City & Shire Strategic Development Authority some time ago that such a proposal was an ideal project to be brought forward under the City Region Deal.  I was delighted to receive support across the room from both Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City councillors, who recognised that such a rail link could substantially reduce road traffic into Aberdeen, town centre congestion and emissions.

“The failure to grasp the future demand for rail travel is perhaps even more short-sighted than Dr. Beeching's decision to decimate it.  I am therefore profoundly disappointed that the local Conservative councillor should have chosen to campaign against the proposal."

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Positive Progress Towards Future for NE Dairy Sector

A study into options for the North-east dairy industry supported by Aberdeenshire Council and Opportunity North-east (ONE) has identified potential investors.

The study was initiated following the decision by Muller Wiseman to close their milk processing plant in Aberdeen and truck milk to Bellshill, Lanarkshire, for processing, for which producers are charged 1¾ pence per litre. This, coupled with low milk prices over recent years has put the future of the North-east dairy sector in serious doubt.

Now, the second stage of the dairy study has seen a prospectus selling the North-east dairy opportunity prepared and widely promoted in the UK and internationally. Three serious investment prospects have emerged from this work.

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee Cllr David Aitchison (SNP-Westhill & District), whose remit includes economic development, said:

“This is a positive first step to ensuring the continued economic viability of dairy farming in the North-east. Partnership working has ensured that we have come this far and I am hopeful there will be a positive outcome.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson commented:

“I am delighted that a number of potential investors have expressed an interest in the opportunities which exist in the milk sector here in the North-east following the decision by Muller Wiseman to close their operations here.

“This represents important progress and while we should be cautious at this early stage, Aberdeenshire Council and ONE are to be commended for their efforts to date.”

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Buchan Councillor Lodges Formal Complaint on New Bus Fleet

Central Buchan SNP councillor Jim Ingram has lodged a formal complaint against bus operator Stagecoach after concerns were raised that a new £5.5million fleet of vehicles breach disability regulations.

The move follows a public meeting of the local Bus Forum held at Mintlaw recently, which attracted a turnout of around 300 people. The meeting was arranged at the request of Councillor Ingram and other councillors who had been receiving complaints regarding the bus service.

In his letter to the Commissioner, Cllr Ingram wrote:

“Numerous people claim that they are unable to access the buses, combined with reports that many disabled users have been left standing at bus stops. [This is] due to the only two low-level disabled seats being occupied, and they are unable to climb the stairs to the general seating area.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson added:

“Unfortunately, the choice of vehicles on commercially-operated routes is entirely a matter for the operator, and is not something which the Scottish Government or the local authority can change.

“I welcome the engagement by the bus company at the public meeting and a number of suggestions were made by members of the public, to which the bus operator has undertaken to give all due consideration. I very much hope that they will do so, as it clearly would not be in their interests to alienate such a significant proportion of the travelling public.”

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SNP's Ross Cassie Welcomes Playing Fields Grant for New Byth

SNP councillor for New Byth Ross Cassie and local MSP Stewart Stevenson have welcomed the grant award from Awards for All Scotland towards equipment for the village’s playing field.

New Byth Community & Playing Field Association have secured £7,700 and will use the funding to install a new aerial runway for the older children of the village to enjoy.

Commenting, Cllr Ross Cassie said:

“I welcome the award of £7,700 from Awards for All Scotland to New Byth Community & Playing Fields Association for an aerial runway for the children in the village to enjoy.

“Awards for All Scotland gives groups across our country the option to apply for grants of between £500 and £10,000 for their particular projects.

“These projects will bring communities together, assist learning and improve local spaces such as in New Byth and help our communities to become more active. I congratulate the Association on this award.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson added:

“Local voluntary groups are the backbone of our communities so it’s good to see New Byth Community & Playing Fields Association being rewarded for their efforts by a national funding body.

“Local communities themselves are best-placed to decide the priorities of the community, whatever those may be and volunteers who give freely of their time to make their town or village a better place deserve every encouragement.”

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Council's Silent Tribute to Former Peterhead Councillor

Members of Aberdeenshire Council’s Buchan Area Committee observed a minute’s silence at the start of their meeting today for former committee member Jim Davidson, who died at the weekend.

The popular former SNP councillor served on Banff & Buchan District Council from 1988 and on Grampian Regional Council from 1990 until their replacement by Aberdeenshire Council, on which he served until retiring at the 2007 election.

Buchan Area Committee Chairman, Cllr Stuart Pratt said:

“Jim was a valued colleague and dear friend and I will miss him greatly. We were elected together to the old District Council in 1988 and served alongside each other until he retired in 2007.

“Jim and his wife Jean spent a lot of time in the Far East doing work for the Salvation Army and until quite recently he continued as a preacher in various local churches filling in for Ministers when they were absent or on holiday. He will be a great loss to the community.”

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith, who succeeded Jim as SNP candidate at the 2007 council elections said:

“Jim served Peterhead for 19 years as a councillor but was active in his community for all of his life. I first met him when he was considering standing for the council in 1988 and I never thought back then that I would be his successor.

“Jim gave me a lot of good advice when I was elected in 2007 and is remembered fondly by his former constituents.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson also paid tribute saying:

“Jim was a real community stalwart, always willing to assist his constituents and serve the party.

“He was a dedicated councillor and always a source of wise advice who will be sorely missed.”

Local MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“I was so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing and send my condolences to Jean and his family. Jim was an exceptional public servant and lifelong champion of all things Peterhead and his loss will be sorely felt by all who knew him.”

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Environment Minister In Aboyne To Support SNP Candidate Blackett

North-east MSP and Minister for the Environment & Climate Change Stewart Stevenson paid a visit to Aboyne to support local SNP council candidate Geva Blackett.

Mr Stevenson toured Aboyne speaking to local residents and discussing the issues they raised.

Speaking afterwards, Stewart Stevenson said:

I very much enjoyed campaigning with Geva in Aboyne.  There seemed to be a higher than average awareness of the election campaign and that the SNP stand an excellent chance of getting a councillor elected in this area for the first time.

Last year’s Scottish Parliament election where the SNP gained the West Aberdeenshire seat from the Liberal Democrats has very much focussed the minds of those who are sympathetic towards the SNP but have always voted tactically for other parties up until now.  They now see that voting SNP gets results and that message was coming across as I went round the doors in Aboyne.”

SNP candidate for Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside Geva Blackett added:

I’m delighted that Stewart Stevenson took time out to come to Aboyne and hear about the issues affecting local people.  The state of the roads and the lack of local housing, meaning people having to leave the area and jobs for young people are priority issues here.

There’s no doubt these are tough times.  Economic issues and their effects on local services are key to the sustainability of this beautiful area and, if successful, I’m determined to do what I can to protect local services from the brunt of the cuts cascading down from Westminster.”

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Crimond Campaign For Speed Limit Set To Pay Off

SNP councillor for Peterhead North & Rattray Fiona McRae has welcomed publication of a statutory notice by Transport Scotland that it intends to introduce a 30MPH speed limit in Crimond.

Speed restrictions have been backed by local people in Crimond for some time, supported by Buchan East Community Council, Crimond Area Tenants & Residents’ Association, and Councillors Fiona McRae and Anne Allan.  Local MSP Stewart Stevenson gave his support to the introduction of electronic speed signs, which were installed in 2007.

Commenting, Councillor Fiona McRae said:

“I’m delighted for the local community who have campaigned for road safety measures on the A90 within the village for years.

“This is very good news indeed and will make a huge difference within the village.”

Fellow Peterhead North & Rattray SNP councillor Anne Allan added:

“This is excellent news for the local community.

“The electronic speed signs have helped improve road safety in recent years, but with the increase in traffic volumes this latest move to reduce the speed limit is very welcome indeed.”

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SNP Candidates Welcome Progress On A90 Dualling

SNP council candidates Rob Merson and Richard Thomson have welcomed the announcement that the dualling of the Tipperty – Balmedie section of the A90 has been progressed by the Scottish Government with the publication of made orders.

Ellon & District SNP councillor Rob Merson, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that the SNP Government has delivered on yet another election promise.  As a resident of Ellon for over 35 years, I am well aware of the importance of the road link to Aberdeen.  Allied to the construction of the AWPR, journey times will be improved for travellers across North Aberdeenshire. The people of the North-east might at last look forward to having the roads infrastructure which they ought to have had thirty years ago.

“The fact that most of the route will be constructed alongside the existing route should also minimise disruption for commuters during the construction phase.

“After eight years of inaction by the former Scottish Executive, I am very pleased that our Transport Minister was so quickly able to complete the sterling work done by his predecessor, Stewart Stevenson MSP, in turning this long-standing aspiration into a reality.”

Fellow SNP candidate for Ellon & District Richard Thomson added:

"This represents an important milestone for the Balmedie-Tipperty project. It is good news for the North-east in general and Ellon in particular.

"Procuring Balmedie-Tipperty together with the AWPR makes a lot of sense as it will help to secure important savings for the public purse.

"I hope that following the devastating judgement against the anti-AWPR lobby last month in the Court of Session, work can soon get underway on a road which almost everyone agrees is long overdue."

Minister for Transport Keith Brown MSP said:

“The Scottish Government is committed to providing an efficient transport system throughout the country, including in the north east.

“On completion, the Balmedie - Tipperty dualling scheme will deliver improved safety, better connections and more reliable journey times for anyone using this section of the A90 north of Aberdeen.

“By combining the Balmedie -Tipperty dualling scheme in a combined Non-Profit Distributing (NPD) model contract alongside the AWPR we are ensuring the opportunity to deliver better value for the public purse.”

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SNP Announce New Team For Fraserburgh & District

LOCAL COMMITMENT AND EXPERIENCE

Broch teacher Charles Buchan and local businessman Ricky Sheaffe-Greene have been selected by SNP members in the Fraserburgh & District ward to join Cllr Brian Topping in seeking election to represent the town on Aberdeenshire Council.

Recently-retired Fraserburgh Academy teacher Charles Buchan comes from a fishing family and went to the white fish and herring fishing before studying at Aberdeen University.   Charles is married with 3 children, has lived in Fraserburgh all his working life and taught at the academy for 43 years.  After his retirement as Head of Physics, Charles works as the North of Scotland Verifier for the SQA.

Charles was formerly National Convenor of the Science Panel, and was involved in Special Needs work.  He was given the Institute of Physics ‘UK Teacher of the Year’ award in 2009 for services to physics teaching.  Charles was also a Scottish Government consultant on Higher Still.

Among his other interests Charles enjoys sea-fishing and walking in the Cairngorms. Charles has written on business and education for the Financial Times and The Scotsman, and has done research in medieval physics and theology at Oxford University. 

A Shetlander by birth, Ricky Sheaffe-Greene is married to Caroline, has 4 grown-up children and runs Nortech Technology Solutions.  Ricky has a strong passion for Fraserburgh and works hard to try and make it a better place by being involved in various groups such as the Business Association and the CCTV Working Group.  Ricky is also a Director of the Fraserburgh Development Trust, which is working to revitalise the Broch.  

Ricky previously worked for Scotnet during which time he set up a computer shop before establishing Nortech Technology Solutions which aims to support local businesses in their technology needs.

In addition to his work with Fraserburgh Development Trust and involvement with the CCTV Working Group and Business Association, Ricky is also involved in voluntary organisations and is Treasurer of the Fraserburgh Cats Protection League.

Completing the SNP team for Fraserburgh & District is Councillor Brian Topping.  Brian has been elected to serve his constituents at every local election since 1984 and is currently Fraserburgh & District’s only SNP councillor.

Brian is Chairperson of the CCTV Working Group which has brought the award-winning cameras to the town to help the police detect crime.  He is a Fraserburgh Harbour Commissioner, a Director of the Lighthouse Museum and Aberdeenshire Housing Partnership and a Director and presenter of Kinnaird Radio.

Brian’s interest in and support for community safety issues is well-known and he is currently President of the Scottish Accident Prevention Council.  Brian is also involved in numerous community groups such as Community Councils, parent councils, sports groups and carries out a lot of fundraising for local charities and groups including the RNLI and FISSH.  An avid football fan, Brian can be found at Bellslea Park most home matches.

Charles Buchan; Ricky Sheaffe-Greene
and Cllr Brian Topping

Commenting on his selection, Charles Buchan said:

“I am delighted to have been selected by the local SNP members to contest the election in my home area.

“A sense of community is important and having served Fraserburgh Academy and those who have passed through it over four decades, I am offering myself for election to serve the wider community and work as part of a team for Fraserburgh, Inverallochy, Cairnbulg and district.”

Ricky Sheaffe-Greene commented:

“It’s a great honour for me to have been adopted as a candidate for Fraserburgh & District.

“I’m proud to be standing for the SNP and alongside Brian Topping who has an exceptional record of achievement and community involvement in this ward.  I believe that a strong team working together for the good of the community is what is needed in these difficult times.”

Welcoming Charles and Ricky to the SNP team, Councillor Brian Topping said:

“In Charles and Ricky we have two people who have consistently shown their commitment to the community both through their work and their voluntary activities and I’m delighted that we have secured candidates of such high calibre.

“I have worked closely with Ricky to bring CCTV to Fraserburgh which has been an overwhelming success in the fight against crime.  Charles has devoted 43 years to teaching at Fraserburgh Academy and has been rightly recognised nationally for his work and commitment to young people.

“I hope that the electors of Fraserburgh & District will return all three of us as a strong SNP team so that the SNP can continue to deliver for our local communities.”

Local MSP Stewart Stevenson added:

“I think the important thing here is the emphasis that Charles, Ricky and Brian have placed on working together as a team for the benefit of Fraserburgh, Inverallochy, Cairnbulg and the rest of the Ward.  That is something which has been lacking on the council in recent years and has been noted by the electorate.

“These are three excellent candidates whose track record of community involvement and activism speaks for itself and I wish them well.”

Note: Institute of Physics website article which describes Charles Buchan as “an inspirational physics teacher” and recognised for his “exciting and relevant” lessons and for enthusiastically supporting his colleagues within and beyond the school. His citation adds: “He is a highly respected member of the community in which he teaches and has consistently provided and quality learning experience for all pupils in his care in a supportive, considerate and stimulating manner.” Is available here:

http://www.iopscotland.org/about/awards/teachers/page_48692.html

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Banff Councillor & MSP Welcome Duff House Agreement With Historic Scotland

Banff & District SNP councillor Ian Gray has welcomed the move to transfer the day-to-day running of Duff House from Aberdeenshire Council to Historic Scotland.  The move comes after the visitor attraction was threatened with closure over the winter months by the council, who are one of the partners responsible for the house and gallery.

Scottish Ministers, in the shape of Historic Scotland, and the National Galleries of Scotland are the other partners involved in the running of Duff House.  Following an intervention by First Minister Alex Salmond, who has always been a keen supporter of Duff House, winter closure has been averted with Historic Scotland now taking over the managing of the facility.

Commenting following yesterday’s meeting of the council’s Policy & Resources Committee which agreed the move, Cllr Ian Gray said:

“This is good news for Duff House.  We need to hold on to all the visitor attractions we have on the Banffshire Coast and this move should allow the staff at Duff House more freedom to promote and market what is a unique facility not just for the North-east but for the whole country.

“This is an exciting opportunity both for Duff House and the staff as Historic Scotland undoubtedly have much wider experience of promoting visitor attractions and can provide more effective support to the staff to carry out their job than the council ever could.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson also welcomed the change, adding:

“I’m pleased that local councillors, working together with the Scottish Government, have managed to overcome the difficulties which faced Duff House.

“It would have been a great pity if the original plan to close Duff House for part of the year had gone through.  I look forward to this important visitor attraction being more rigorously marketed and promoted under these new arrangements, thereby providing a boost to the local economy in terms of, hopefully, increased visitor numbers.”

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COUNCILLOR CONDEMNS ‘LUDICROUS’ TAXI PROPOSALS

A local councillor has condemned as “ludicrous” draft proposals from Aberdeenshire Council to introduce an age limit of 5 years on vehicles used as taxis at the time of the renewal of their licence.

Banff & District SNP councillor Ian Gray says the move is unnecessary and will cause financial problems for local businesses, putting jobs at risk.

Commenting, Councillor Gray said:

“This is a totally unnecessary proposal. Given the reliability of vehicles these days, it is completely ludicrous to even consider forcing taxi operators to stop using vehicles which are over 5 years old.

“Taxis are subject to tests to ensure their safety and roadworthiness to carry fare-paying members of the public. As long as these tests are being carried out to a high standard and the public has confidence in the system, there should be no need to introduce an arbitrary age limit on taxis.

“The environmental and economic consequences of doing so are simply horrendous. I am also extremely disappointed that I had to find out about this from constituents of mine. There has been no consultation with local elected councillors on this matter. If there had been, I would have made my views very clear on the subject.”

SNP candidate for Banffshire & Buchan Coast Stewart Stevenson added:

“At a time when taxi businesses are under pressure from high fuel costs, this is the last thing that they need.

“While public safety must always be paramount, I don’t believe that introducing an arbitrary age limit on taxis is the solution. If the vehicle inspection system cannot cope with the number of tests being asked of it, the answer is to upgrade the vehicle inspection system, not to pass new burdens onto taxi operators.”

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LOCAL PARLIAMENTARIANS ON SMITH EMBANKMENT OPENING

Banff & Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson and MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford have both declared themselves very impressed with the Peterhead Harbour extension, the Smith Embankment, which was officially opened by First Minister Alex Salmond.

Mr Stevenson and Dr Whiteford, along with Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith, were among a wide range of guests representing harbour users, local businesses, contractors involved in the construction of the new quay, and the wider community present for the official opening.

Speaking afterwards, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“To have completed this massive infrastructure project not only on time but also on budget is a tremendous achievement and I congratulate John Wallace and his first class team at Peterhead Port Authority on this achievement.

“I am proud that the Scottish Government recognised the important contribution which the port of Peterhead makes to the Scottish economy and supported this development financially.”

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford commented:

“This investment in Peterhead moves the port and the town forward and the management at Peterhead harbours are to be commended for the vision they have shown by taking a big decision at what was and remains a very difficult economic climate, but one which will reap dividends in the years to come with the increased capacity of the harbour.”

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith added:

“This has been a great day for Peterhead and ensures that the town’s greatest asset is secure in its pre-eminent position as Europe’s number one fishing port for many years to come.”

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