My holidays are just another chance to help Buddies

It’s funny that, no matter how many times I tell people, they still think members of the Scottish Parliament go on holiday at the end of June – and that’s them till September.

Well, I don’t know about other MSPs, but that has never been the case for me.

From the beginning of July onwards we have all the town centre festival days, like Sma Shot Day and various gala days.

There is also the chance for me to catch up with community groups and constituents.

But, most importantly for me, I’m able to work from my constituency office in Johnston Street on a regular basis.

Don’t get me wrong, I love representing our town in Scotland’s Parliament, but dealing with the day-to-day issues of the people of Paisley is the most important part of the job.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have caught up with the principals of West College Scotland and UWS, attended numerous events, and dealt with my constituents as they came into our office.

As every Buddie knows, we have an open-door policy and a constituent can come in for advice or help any time between 9am and 6pm, Monday through to Friday.

The advantage of being in Paisley over summer is that I get to spend time with my family as well.

Last week, I managed to get a spot of lunch with my daughter Jessica, her partner John and my grandchildren, Daisy and JJ.

A very enjoyable lunch at Burger and Keg followed and I managed to get Daisy a Porrelli’s ice cream cone at Paisley Cross .

It’s days like this that remind you of what’s important in life.

So, before Stacey and I head to Blackpool during Paisley Fair fortnight, it’s back to work and ensuring we all build the type of community we want our families to live in.