• News
• About
• Contact
• Surgeries

Shona Robison MSP

• MSP Welcomes Consultations on School Move

  29Jun

  Dundee East MSP Shona Robison commented on the decision by Dundee City Council’s Education and Policy & Resources Committee last night [28^th June] to support the permanent re-location of Eastern Primary School to the old Grove Academy building.

  The MSP welcomed the forthcoming consultations with the Parent Councils of both Eastern and Grove and the parents of pupils attending or expected to attend these schools and a range of other bodies including Broughty Ferry Community Council.

  Shona Robison said: “There would seem to be many educational advantages in moving Eastern Primary to the former Grove building, not least that it will lead to sharing of excellent facilities at Grove and will ease the transition for many pupils from primary to secondary level on the nearby site.

   “Of course, it will need the approval of the parents and users of the schools and the wider Broughty Ferry community to go ahead and I am pleased that the Council will be publishing a formal proposal paper, listing the educational benefits, for circulation to all interested parties, and which will be the subjects of various meetings in the community.”

  “If the move does go ahead, it should be because there is significant advantage in doing so, such as better access, better parking facilities for the new Primary and more accommodation space to allow an improvement of facilities in the new school.

  “For the council tax payers, if it goes ahead, there could be significant benefits, with possible capital and revenue savings to the Council of between £772,000 and £1m from the move.

  “I hope that all parents and users of the schools and the wider Broughty community will get involved in the consultations once the formal proposal is made available.”

• Benefits of Council Tax Freeze for Dundee Households Outlined

  25Jun

   

  The value of the continuing Council Tax Freeze for ordinary households was underlined today at Holyrood when Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney revealed that the average Band D council tax payer in Dundee would have been paid more than £212 extra over the three year period of the freeze.

  The Minister was responding to a question from Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick.

  Joe FitzPatrick said: “I asked the Cabinet Secretary how much more the average family in Dundee would be expected to pay if Council Tax had been increased by a comparatively modest 3% each year since 2007.

  “Since the introduction of the Council Tax, it had increased by 100% under Conservative and Labour Governments, and throughout that period there had been double-digit increases. 

  “Today’s figures from the Cabinet Secretary show how much help this has provided to families and households since 2007.

  “The average Band D council tax payer is  £212 per year better-off with the Council Tax freeze.”

  Commenting after the meeting, Shona Robison, Dundee East MSP said: “Labour and Conservative MSPs have regularly demanded that we should end the Council Tax Freeze – but this shows how wrong such demands are. No-one would want to return to the old days under Labour and Tory Governments and Labour Councils when your Council Tax went up and up, every single year.

  “Of course, we now have final proof of the value of the Council Tax Freeze with the Con-Lib Dem Coalition at Westminster now planning to establish a similar Council Tax Freeze in  England.

  “That wouldn’t be happening if the policy had not been such a big success in Scotland.”

• UK Budget Failings Underlines Case for Fiscal Powers for Scotland

  24Jun

  The Emergency Budget introduced yesterday by Chancellor Osborne underlines the need for the Scottish Parliament to have full fiscal powers, according to the SNP.

  Dundee East MSP Shona Robison said: “The dropping by the Chancellor of proposed tax relief for computer games development – a measure for which the games industry had campaigned for several years – is a prime example of why the Scottish Parliament needs full fiscal powers.

  “This is one of Scotland’s – and Dundee’s world-leading industries – and I have no doubt that if the Scottish Government had the fiscal power to do so, we would have backed tax relief.

  “The Games Industry body, TIGA and many of the key figures in the sector have come around to this view.

  “Dr Richard Wilson, CEO of TIGA has said that the campaign for the Scottish Parliament to be given more tax powers should be stepped up so that Holyrood can take action to protect the games industry if the Westminster Government is unwilling to do so.

  “There is no question that the games industry is more important to Scotland, and especially Dundee, than to the rest of the UK.

  “Although the previous Labour Government had been persuaded to the idea of tax breaks, they hadn’t introduced them – and the Liberals  were in favour of them – before the election but seem to havechanged their minds since they became part of  the coalition government

  “Priorities for the UK Government are not the same priorities for what is needed to support the fragile recovery in Scotland.

  “Full fiscal responsibility over tax matters would allow a more flexible and sensitive response by the Scottish Government to particularly Scottish priorities such as the computer games industry.”

  Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick today questioned the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney, after his Minsterial Statement at Holyrood on the UK Emergency Budget.

  The MSP asked whether the Cabinet Secretary was aware that after years of lobbying the previous Labour Westminster Government had finally conceded the need for tax incentives for video games development, however, the previous Labour Chancellor made no provision for such incentives in his final budget.

  Joe FitzPatrick said: “Does the Cabinet secretary agree that this made it easier for the Conservative Liberal Coalition to renege on the promises to industry, placing Scottish  jobs, particularly in my constituency at risk, and could the Cabinet Secretary tells us what representations the Scottish government intends to make to support the games industry in Dundee and across Scotland.”

  The Finance Secretary said that tax relief for the computer games sector has been one of the issues he had raised with the Chancellor in advance of the budget. He had been aware that the previous UK Government has stated a commitment to tax breaks and that it would have been preferable if these had actually been introduced.

  He would be making representations to the Chancelllor and hoped to discuss with him the possibility of adequate opportunities to support Scotland’s world-leading new computer games industry. 

  The Dundee West MSP has tabled a motion on the subject.

• MSPs Behind City’s Bid For Offshore Wind Jobs

  17Jun

  Dundee’s MSPs are fully behind the city’s bid to attract investors to make Dundee a global centre for offshore wind turbine manufacturing and construction, which could lead to in excess of 1,000 high-quality jobs.

  Dundee East MSP Shona Robison said: “We are very hopeful that the city can attract a leading investor.

  “Not only is Dundee one of the most established and largest import and export hubs for bulk products in Scotland, it benefits from easy access facilities and has the huge advantage of a number of sites available now for new build developments.

  “For example, there is a 60 acre development site adjacent to the deep-water quays at the east end of the Port.

  “Dundee’s facilities are superlative and offer many options which can be used to give Dundee huge opportunities in the renewables sector. The city has strong academic roots through its two excellent universities, highly-skilled workforces and marine engineering is practically ‘in the blood’ of the city.”

  Joe FitzPatrick, MSP for Dundee West said: “The Offshore Valuation Group Report shows that there is enough offshore energy off the Scottish shore to generate the equivalent energy of a billion barrels of oil per year – a vast resource, which we can, and must, harness. 

  “Being on the east coast, directly facing Europe, where the market for wind turbines and for longer-term maintenance of renewables sector hardware over the next decade is estimated at £15 billion over the next five years, Dundee is in a prime position to attract a leading investor.

  “Scotland’s National Renewable Infrastructure Plan’ published by the Scottish Government earlier in the year, identifies Dundee as a preferred strategic site.

  “And Dundee has already invested in infrastructure improvements to help us secure the manufacturing and maintenance work.

  “Dundee can develop a globally competitive renewable energy sector.”

• MSPs Hear About Carers’ Week

  16Jun
  

  Shona and Joe with (on left) Lucinda Godfrey, Dundee Carers Centre Manager and staff

  Dundee MSPs Joe FitzPatrick and Shona Robison yesterday dropped in at the Dundee Carers Centre in Ward Road to hear about the activities taking place during this year’s Carers’ Week, a national iniative to raise awareness of Carers’ issues.

  The MSPs met Centre Manager Lucinda Godfrey and staff. The theme of this year’s Carers Week is ‘A life of my own’.  According to recent research, 80% of people who care for a loved one have been forced to give up leisure activities or going out socially since taking on their caring role.

  The Dundee Carers Centre, formerly known as the Princess Royal Trust  for Carers Centre, has been in existence in Dundee for over 20 years and has a staff of nearly 30.

  At present there are about 657,000 unpaid carers and 100,000 young carers in Scotland.

  The MSPs gave a briefing on the forthcoming Young Carers Strategy which will be published next month.

  At present, each school nominates a Champion to take forward young carers’ issues and this system is working well in the Tayside area.

  Commenting after the meeting, Shona Robison said: “It is always useful to discuss these issues with those directly involved in managing the services particularly as the legislation is presently in the final stages of consultation.

  “The Dundee Carers Centre in Dundee has done marvellous work over the years to adapt the provision of services and to keep the issues of carers at the top of the agenda.”

  Joe FitzPatrick said: “Carers Week is always an opportunity to highlight the work being done and to recognise what more needs to be done.

  “It is important that MSPs learn first hand of the challenges faced by those who are carers and those who are being cared for.”

  Activities taking place during this week’s Carers Week in Dundee include a Pampering Day on Wednesday which is for Carers only. This has proved to be so popular that it is fully booked for this year.

  On Saturday, ‘Carers Have Got Talent!’ offers and opportunity for carers to show off their talents, also featuring the Tayside Carers Choir. Due to generous funding, this event is free and starts at 7.30pm in the Steeple Church.

  For further information on Carers Week and the Dundee Carers Centre, visit website: www.dundeecarerscentre.org.uk

• Politicians Comment After DC Thomson Meeting

  11Jun

  Dundee SNP’s Parliamentarians  Stewart Hosie MP and MSPs Shona Robison and Joe FitzPatrick met today with Senior management of DC Thomson & Co Ltd.

   All three politicians were shocked at the announcement earlier this week at the news of 350 job losses in the City.

   Following today’s meeting, Stewart Hosie said: “It was vital for us to understand the reason for the company’s decision and the potential loss of jobs. The company explained why this decision was necessary and were open and transparent in all of the answers they were able to give me.”

  Joe FitzPatrick said: “We sought reassurances that compulsory redundancies would be kept to a minimum and that the best possible levels of support would be offered to those who might have to leave and it would appear that, at the start of the 90 day consultation period, everything which can be done is being done.”

  Shona Robison said: “Job losses on this scale are a massive blow to those directly involved and the City as a whole but I was pleased to hear that dedicated support, like the PACE team is being put in place to help people find new jobs. Also the commitment to minimise compulsory redundancies through redeployment within the company is very welcome.”

• Politicians React to Job Losses at DC Thomson & Co Ltd

  09Jun

  Dundee politicians today reacted to the news of 350 potential job losses at DC Thomson & Co Ltd. The job losses, understood to be of printers and in the commercial department were not expected by employees. It is believed that the proposal may lead to the closure of one of the company’s properties in the city.

  Stewart Hosie, Dundee East MP said: “DC Thomson & Co Ltd are one of the city’s major private sector employers, if not the largest, and have made several acquisitions over recent years.

  “They have been a very successful company for a long time with a good reputation amongst their staff and their titles are landmarks and icons in the publishing industry.

  Joe FitzPatrick MSP said: “It is very disappointing and I am devastated for the staff concerned. “DC Thomson employ more than 2,000 people in the city and will remain one of the city’s largest private sector employers.

  “I understand that the proposal relates to a downturn in the company’s out-printing business. We hope to meet with the company on Friday to discuss these issues and the First Minister has already spoken to the company’s chairman.

  Shona Robison MSP said: “It is very disappointing news for the staff concerned and the Scottish Government will be moving quickly through the PACE Team initiative and other local agencies, to seek redeployment for these highly-skilled staff and to support those facing redundancy. I am hopeful that DC Thomson will be able to avoid compulsory redundancies and will be raising this issue with the company on Friday and will liaise with them and the Scottish Government.”

• MSP asks GPs to spread the word about energy assistance

  04Jun

  GPs across Scotland are being asked to help promote information for people who often find it difficult to keep warm in their homes and afford their fuel bills. Leaflets and posters are being sent by charity Energy Action Scotland, with support from Scottish Hydro Electric, to all GP surgeries in Scotland.

  The initiative is being supported by Shona Robison MSP, who today (4 June) visits Princes Street Surgery in Dundee. During the visit, Ms Robison will find out more about the aim to spread the word that there is assistance available to people living in cold, damp homes and for whom high fuel bills are a worry.

  Staff in the surgery have agreed to display the leaflets and posters so that patients can take away information on grants for home insulation and heating, energy-saving advice and tips on how to reduce fuel bills.

  Shona Robison MSP said: “Although we are now into warmer weather, we need to be planning ahead. There are still too many people living in cold, damp homes who struggle with the high cost of heating. I welcome this initiative to spread awareness of the assistance that is out there for those who need it.”

  Norman Kerr, Director, Energy Action Scotland explained: “Often those who struggle to keep warm at home at a price they can afford are unaware that grants and advice are available to them. As an important part of the community, the local GP surgery or health centre can help point people in the right direction.”

  Energy Action Scotland estimates that around 800,000 – about 1 in 3 – households in Scotland currently struggle to heat their homes at a price they can afford.

  Scottish Hydro Electric’s Head of Priority Services, Frances Muller said: “Anyone worried about their fuel bills or about being cold at home during the year should contact the Scottish Government’s Energy Assistance Package on freephone 0800 512 012.

  For further information contact: Barbara Atterson, Development Manager at Energy Action Scotland on tel: 0141 226 3064 or email: barbara.atterson@eas.org.uk

  Background Notes: Energy Action Scotland is the national charity which campaigns to end fuel poverty and works to promote warm, dry homes for all. Website: www.eas.org.uk

• MSP Backs Call for UN Inquiry

  01Jun

  Dundee East MSP Shona Robison today backed calls for a UN Inquiry into the actions of the Israeli military on board the aid flotilla ships.

  Shona Robison said: “I wish to express my deep sadness at the news of the loss of life upon the peace flotilla headed towards Gaza.

  “My first concern is for the safety of those on board – on both sides – and I am deeply concerned that the families have heard nothing for nearly 48 hours since the Israeli’s imposed a communications blackout.

  “There were at least three Scots on the ship including a man from Dundee, Ali El-Awaisi, who comes from a prominent family well-known in Dundee.

  “I have had contact from Mr El-Awaisi, whom I have met on several occasions in the Mosque.

  “The Israeli Government must listen to the international condemnation of their actions and provide immediate reassurance of the current situation and wellbeing of the passengers aboard the ships.

  “This use of violence against a humanitarian convoy carrying medicine and other aid is being rightly condemned across the world and demonstrates the increasing need for Israel to lift the blockade.

  ”I back the calls for a full UN Inquiry into the circumstances of the military action and the deaths that have occurred on board the ships and into Israel’s conduct of the event throughout.”

• Ten Weeks From Digital Switchover: MSPs Get Progress Briefing

  23May

  Dundee’s two constituency MSPs Shona Robison and Joe FitzPatrick were briefed on Friday by senior staff from Digital UK – the company behind the digital switchover – on the preparations for the big switch off of analogue TV services in Dundee.

  Switchover has already occurred without problems in several parts of Scotland and all analogue services in Dundee will be switched off in two phases over a fortnight in August.

  With ten weeks to go, Digital UK’s North of Scotland Liaison Manager Alan Cowie and National Manager for Scotland, Paul Hughes, gave a presentation to the MSPs on the progress so far in the Dundee area.

  Shona Robison commented after the meeting: “I was pleased with progress so far and reassured that 98% of the public has an awareness of the switchover date although there is still work to do on detailed preparations.

  “The switchover will be in two phases. Firstly, on 4 August, analogue terrestrial BBC 2 will be switched off overnight and replaced with a selection of digital channels.

  “The second stage will be a fortnight later, when all analogue services are switched off and replaced with digital services.

  “There will of course be questions and concerns raised by the public nearer to the switchover date but Digital UK have a comprehensive system of back-up and support in place for any eventuality, including a helpline; telephone 08456 50 50 50 or visit the Digital UK website: www.digitaluk.co.uk

  “They have a list of all types of kit that is available on the market and can provide advice or a home visit to ensure that viewers will receive the new services. 

  “We were informed that all social and community housing in Dundee is either 100% ready or work is underway to ensure that the switchover goes smoothly.”

  Joe FitzPatrick MSP said: “Both Shona and I have had considerable contact with constituents over the years about analogue terrestrial TV reception quality. This is partly because Dundee has so many hills and is served by a number of relay transmitters, including Tay Bridge. In fact, Dundee has the second highest number of relays in the STV North region.

  “If you are served by a relay transmitter you will receive 3 multiplexes after switchover – this means 15 different TV channels, while the majority of viewers, – two thirds of the population – served by the main transmitters, will receive the full six multiplexes – all channels.

  “There will be the option of purchasing a Freesat box if you really want to have every possible channel but most people will find that they have all the channels they need after switchover. There is a Help Scheme available for those who are eligible.

   “Although all households will receive an information booklet, there will be various community events and roadshows held locally at both the first and second stage of switchover in August.

  “A full range of advice booklets in a wide range of languages, including Polish, Bengali, Urdu – and versions in Braille and in Large Print, are available at our Dundee Parliamentary Office, at 8 Old Glamis Road, Dundee, DD3 8HP.”

  Eligibility and cost details are available at www.helpscheme.co.uk and are included here:

  Switch Over Help Scheme 

  Eligible people will have digital TV explained to them clearly and simply, the options available will be explained and equipment that is needed will be installed.The Help Scheme will also make sure they are happy with how it all works.

  Eligible Groups: People are eligible if they are aged 75 or over, or have lived in a care home for six months or more, or get (or could get)

  • Disability Living Allowance or
  • Attendance or constant attendance allowance, or
  • Mobility Supplement, or
  • Are registered blind or partially sighted

  Eligible people will be asked to pay £40 towards easy-to-use equipment that suits their needs, help with installation, fitting of a new dish or aerial where it is possible and it is needed (in some case there may be an extra charge for this service), a demonstration and someone they can call for help while they are getting used to the equipment.

  This service is free if eligible people:

  • Get pension credit, income support or income-based jobseeker’s allowance

  Eligible groups may choose an alternative to the basic offer, including a digital television set, different platform, subsscription packages, or a digital television recorder. There is an extra cost for these options. Options may vary from region to region.