It’s hard to imagine it has been just over a month or so since the Scottish Parliament election. In fact, it feels like there is an election every few months these days. The Indy debate, the General Election, Holyrood and now the EU. I thought I would share some observations from my first full month in office. The Scottish Parliament is a wonder. Not only is it a remarkable building of extraordinary beauty and architecture it is a place filled with constant buzz. Committees are being set up, cross party groups will convene, the debating Chamber has already been a hotbed of wilful debate and drama. What strikes me the most is the incredible team that work behind the scenes, from the catering staff, HR, the IT team, the clerks, security, the broadcast team and the research teams. All there to help you do your job in the best way possible. To help you serve. I was also struck by how important it is for Members of all sides of the spectrum to find consensus where it is possible and show respect for each other’s views, ideas and opinions. A third of the current intake are new to Parliament and this session will have a very different look and feel. My job is absolutely to hold the government to account but also to be a positive influence in Scottish politics. Something I will strive to achieve in the years to come. As a regional MSP I am looking to get around the region as much as I can in the weeks and months ahead the parliamentary recess will certainly help with that. Also I will be holding surgeries in due course so I can be of greatest assistance. In the mean time I am building up my office, recruiting staff and so on and please bear with me in the first few months. I look forward to getting settled, bedded in and getting on with the task in hand.
