As MSPS squabble, they are failing a generation in crisis

Much has been said and written about Scotland’s drug problem this week.

Much finger-pointing has also taken place with the debate degenerating into a constitutional blame-game.

The noise is in danger of drowning out the awful truth that we have a generation in crisis.

Our special report today reveals that drugs deaths are only part of the issue. Drink-related fatalities and suicides push the rate of “deaths of despair” to record levels.

In fact, more than 3,000 people have lost their lives in such awful circumstances in the past year.

The reasons behind such tragedies are complex and varied. Poverty is a key driver. In communities where there is little to strive for, dealers find easy prey.

Online culture also has a role to play. Social media can promote lifestyles that are unrealistic, leading to increasing feelings of inadequacy among not only the young but people of all ages.

Tackling such issues needs society to act as one, pushing aside red tape and politics for the greater good.

Take our story today which reveals how the DAISY programme still hasn’t been delivered many years after it was launched.

That is such a wasted opportunity to have done some good.

We are not being anti-snp by highlighting this. After all, governments of all colours have an appalling track record when it comes to delivering major projects.

Fundamentally, we must also take a good, hard look at ourselves and the role we each play in modern-day society.

Are we spending enough quality time with our kids? Are we ensuring extended family members or even neighbours are coping? Are we thinking more about quality of life and happiness ahead of short-term material gratification?