EU cash is good news for farmers
This week, it was confirmed Scottish farmers and crofters will benefit from £80 million of EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) funding.
The funding is the first tranche of a £160m package that, following sustained pressure from the Scottish Government, the UK Government has finally returned to Scotland.
This is a hugely welcome victory for Scottish farming as, since 2014, the UK Government has held back CAP funding specifically designated for Scotland.
This initial £80m funding will be distributed to support active farming, with a focus on those who farm in marginal uplands, hill farms and island areas.
I am delighted farmers across Perthshire will now receive this vital source of funding, which was money that was owed to them.
This funding will play a vital role in helping us meet our agricultural commitments, and will make a crucial difference to the future viability of Perthshire’s farming industry.
I am hopeful this funding will help to provide some security to farmers during these uncertain times.
As we approach Bonfire Night, the role of fireworks has once more entered the public consciousness.
Whilst there can be little doubt that organised displays of fireworks are a great occasion for all the family, there is growing support for tighter regulations relating to the private use of fireworks.
Indeed, the results of a recent Scottish Government consultation showed that 94 per cent want tighter control on the sales of fireworks, 92 per cent feel there should be tighter control on fireworks use and 93 per cent want stronger regulations to ensure animals are not caused unnecessary suffering as a result of fireworks misuse.
Perhaps most significantly, 70 per cent of respondents reported being affected by fireworks used in an irresponsible or unsafe way.
To that end, the Scottish Government has announced a review group to be chaired by Alasdair Hay, former chief fire officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, which will consider how best to use the powers at our disposal to drive forward action to reduce the damage caused by fireworks misuse.
We are determined to ensure that every community is able to enjoy fireworks without fear of inappropriate usage, and we will work closely with communities, key partners and the fireworks industry to achieve this.
In the meantime, I would encourage families to spend some quality time together by attending a public display over the next week.
With displays in locations across Perthshire, including Perth, Blairgowrie and Pitlochry, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fireworks in a way which minimises risk and harm to others.