Interview @ The Edinburgh Reporter
Check out my interview @ The Edinburgh Reporter. The SNP Government needs to reverse its withdrawal of funding for the replacement of the Eye Pavilion. We need to retain accessible services for people whether for planned or emergency treatment across the region, we will not accept this downgrading & loss of vital eye services.
Meeting with Place2Be
Last week, I met with Place2Be and discussed the mental health challenges children, teachers and parents are facing during this pandemic. To support those most in need, it is vital that emergency cash injections are followed by a plan for the future with long-term, sustainable funding for children’s mental health and adoption of holistic approaches, …
Support for Supply Teachers
A recent EIS survey shows that supply teachers have reported continuing difficulties in securing employment, despite a clear need for additional teachers to support education during the pandemic. The Scottish Government needs to do more to support all teaching staff.
LGBT+ History Month
February is LGBT+ History Month. Same-sex relationships were legalised in Scotland in 1980, with the Act only coming into force a year later. In June 2000, I was proud to be a Scottish Labour minister when we repealed legislation that prevented local authorities from “promoting homosexuality.” We have come a long way since then – …
EU Settlement Scheme
A reminder for anyone who is an EU national and who wishes to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. Make sure you submit your application to the Settlement Scheme by that date. The new process may seem daunting, but this guide can help.
Meeting with National Union of Students – Scotland
Today I met with Matt Crilly, president of the National Union of Students – Scotland. Many issues were raised such as: – financial difficulties students are facing, resulting from job losses and uncertainty, – the way certain private accommodation providers managed this crisis – particularly at the onset of the pandemic,- the need for wrap-around …
Meeting with National Union of Students – Scotland Read More »
FMQs
Today I asked the First Minister how the consequentials from the £3.5 billion of funding to replace unsafe cladding in England will be allocated, and whether buildings under 18 metres will be included in any grant scheme.The Scottish Government already has £97m in consequentials from an earlier UK Gov fund. This money has not been …
Meeting with Andrea Nolan, Principal & Vice Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University
Good to meet with Prof Andrea Nolan from Edinburgh Napier University – we discussed digital connectivity, future of teaching & long-term potential of e-learning, significant income loss & the need to fund, core research, teaching & academic services to help students & staff cope with the impact of Covid-19.