I am backing Michelle’s law campaign
First and foremost, I would like to thank the Ayrshire Post for the opportunity to use this regular column to give readers a flavour of the issues I deal with as your Member of the Scottish Parliament.
Most of my week is spent in the parliament in Edinburgh, working on committees, speaking in debates and asking questions of ministers, but I always try and get out and about in the constituency as much as I can, meeting local people and helping with the problems they bring to me.
One of the campaigns I have been involved in recently which has a very local focus has been backing the case for Michelle’s Law.
The family of Michelle Stewart, an Ayrshire teenager murdered by her ex- boyfriend, are campaigning to toughen up early release rules and I have been pleased to support their campaign by raising it in Parliament and meeting with them and the Justice Minister.
The resolve that has been shown by this family in the face of such awful personal circumstances is truly inspirational and I will be continuing to support them in their calls for more rights for the victims of crime.
Another local campaign that has found its way to Parliament is the petition by local man Ralph Riddiough who is fighting to have free music lessons reintroduced in local schools. Since charges were brought in locally, up to 1 in 4 pupils in South Ayrshire who previously received instrumental tuition have now dropped out and it is clear that many local young people are now missing out on what was an important part of their education.
I am fully behind Ralph’s campaign to have free music lessons reinstated and will continue to support his efforts in any way I can.
Prestwick Carers Day has fast become a valued date in my diary and this year was no exception as I was privileged to be asked to say a few words to open it.
Held at Prestwick Academy, with a very significant input from pupils and teachers from the school, the Carers Day brings together local carers for a day of entertainment and refreshments.
My congratulations to everyone involved in this fantastic event and I know that everyone involved is already looking forward to next year’s Carers Day.
I hold weekly advice surgeries in my office at 17 Wellington Square, Ayr KA7 1EZ and appointments can be made by telephoning 01292 286251.
I can also be contacted at: john. scott. msp@ parliament. scot.