Letters / Fairness for all
In May 2007 the Scottish Government stated its commitment to improving and ensuring fairness in Scotland. Since then, we have undoubtedly seen pieces of legislation and policies that have begun to make a difference to communities, including within the Highlands and Islands.
But nine years on, there is still an alarming lack of fairness with regards to the provision of services to the Highlands and Islands and I believe that, more than ever, there is a need for a strong independent voice for this region in Holyrood.
As a strong advocate for independent politics in local government for over 13 years, I think I can be that voice.
I have travelled the length and breadth of the Highlands and Islands constituency from Lerwick to Campbeltown and from Moray to Stornoway listening and talking to people, and what I have heard is that my five key priority areas are very relevant in the day-to-day lives of the people of this vast region, albeit with unique local issues in each area.
Vote for me and you will be casting your vote for:
- Our unique community here in Shetland. I intend to fight for change and improvement to ensure the following priorities are delivered and that the Highlands and Islands do not continue to miss out.
1. Improving and safeguarding our transport networks
2. Working towards the eradication of fuel poverty
3. Helping our local economies to thrive
4. Seeking better digital connectivity
5. Bringing decision-making nearer to the people it affects
- Proportionality. The last Scottish parliamentary election saw the Additional Member System or “second vote” fail to produce the intended result of proportional representation with many of the MSPs elected accountable to the party leadership rather than the voters.
I say: People Not Party! As an independent, I do not have to tow a party line; I do not have to keep quiet when my party whip tells me to do so; and I will always be free to respond to the needs and desires of those who I represent, without infringement working with and supporting those who can deliver for the region. Therefore, voting for me would be the best opportunity for a strong, local, and independent voice in Parliament. - A new way of working. As I am standing on the Highlands and Islands region list it means you can vote for me on the Regional ballot paper as well as for your favoured candidate on the separate constituency paper. Elect me as a MSP and I would support whoever gets elected in your local constituency to challenge or support government policy as and when situations dictate.
I recognise that there has been encouraging improvement made by previous Scottish Governments. However, there is still a long way to go.
If elected, I will work with whichever Government is elected, other MSPs and councils across the Highlands and Islands to ensure that this region and its people can thrive and flourish into the future.
James Stockan
Independent list candidate for the Highlands & Islands
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