International Womens Day 2014 - Women for Independence Irvine

Last Saturday Women for Independence launched a new video to mark International Women’s Day on March 8^th.  Designed to appeal to the thousands of women in Scotland who are still unsure how they’ll cast their vote in September or are unregistered, the short film features contributions from 20 women, young and old, from all over Scotland.

Women for Independence has grown enormously over the past 18 months, attracting thousands of women who have never before been active in politics. The video complements dozens of local events which took place throughout Scotland over the weekend.  

Here in Irvine we took to the streets for some campaigning with a stall in Bridgegate and invited women from all over Ayrshire to join us.  The stall was a success and it was particularly pleasing to welcome women who had never campaigned before.  Once we were out of leaflets it was onto the Volunteer rooms for a cuppa and chat about future plans, events and days of action.  Get in touch If you want to get involved, all women of any party or no party most welcome!  

Campaigning activity will step up in the crucial 6 months before the Referendum, to help support women taking action in their communities Women for Independence are currently running an online fundraising campaign  http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/women-for-independence-our-voices-fundraiser

PLEDGE "NO BEDROOM TAX EVICTIONS" FOR ANOTHER YEAR

SNP Group in North Ayrshire Council is set to to continue its policy of 'No Bedroom Tax Evictions' for a further year.

Speaking on behalf of the Group, finance and housing spokesperson Cllr Ruth Maguire commented:

"North Ayrshire’s SNP councillors are determined to do all we can to protect tenants affected by this cruel and unfair Westminster tax.  The Bedroom Tax is hitting some of North Ayrshire’s most vulnerable people.  That’s why in March last year, the SNP made a no evictions pledge for a 1 year transitional period."

“I can confirm today that the SNP Group will continue with this policy." 

“The Bedroom Tax is imposed on Scotland, despite the fact over 90 per cent of Scottish MPs voted against it.  Westminster just do not get how tough things are for many Scots suffering from UK government cuts." 

"We understand the pain and upset the bedroom tax is causing and hope that this pledge provides comfort that we will take all practical steps within our power to protect tenants."

“This year, George Osborne has already promised new, massive cuts of £25 billion – including £12 billion from welfare.

“To end this assault on our social protection, we need power over welfare here in Scotland, and polls show that most Scots want welfare decisions to be made in Scotland.  

“A Yes vote in September will deliver this”.

Roadmap to Independence

Yesterday, the Scottish Government published its guide to what an independent Scotland will look like. The document, Scotland’s Future, is the most detailed blueprint for our country ever produced.

Both sides now agree that Scotland can be a successful independent nation. Our public finances are healthier than the UK’s and by creating our own economic policies, we will be able to make the most of our resources and talents.

Our young people have much to gain from independence. Getting rid of nuclear weapons on the Clyde and no longer having to pay for politicians at Westminster will save us money which can put to use protecting things like free university tuition, we can invest in jobs and get folk back into work.  An important part of this strategy will be a transformational increase in childcare with a near doubling of free nursery edcuation for three and four year olds.  It will be extended to every one or two year old too.

When we vote Yes in next year’s referendum, we will be free ourselves from a system which simply doesn’t work for us. We will direct our wealth and resources to where they are most needed - for instance, by investing in education, new jobs and childcare.

Independence will be a defining moment for us all.  Scotland's future will be in Scotland's hands and this will open up new opportunities.  Our own government will finally have all the powers it needs to put the needs and interests of the people of this country first.

It is a hugely exciting prospect for us all. Let’s make sure we seize it with a Yes vote next September.

Community Voices piece for the Irvine Herald - Scottish Independence

Our local paper here is running a new feature "Community Voices" and each week will give space to a guest writer to contribute their thoughts on a subject close to their heart.  This month the topic is Scottish Independence.  Here are the words I wrote on voting YES:

On the 18^th of September 2014 we will be asked whether we wish to restore political independence to our country. 

My personal position on the constitution of Scotland is not complicated.  Scotland is a nation and a nation should govern itself.  I want to live in a fairer and more prosperous country.   I believe that with the wealth of resources we have and full control over spending we can achieve a better standard of living for all our citizens.  The simple truth is that the people living and working here are best placed to make decisions about how things run here. 

Yes, Scotland should be an Independent country.

There’s been a narrative in the past that we’re too wee, too poor, and too stupid to govern ourselves.  Of nearly 200 independent countries in the world, around half are smaller than Scotland.  Seven of the ten wealthiest countries in the OECD have populations of less than 10 million, including 4 that are very similar to or smaller than Scotland.  Scotland contributes 9.6% of UK taxes and receives 9.3% of UK spending.  Not even the staunchest defenders of the Westminster government attempt to peddle the myth we can’t afford our independence anymore. 

Now that the economic argument has been conceded by even the UK prime minister, supporters of the status quos must explain how, with all we have in natural and human resources, with many other countries our size doing so well why we aren’t doing better?  20% of our children in Scotland are living in poverty.  How can you say the “UK is OK”?  Westminster isn’t working for Scotland, with the recent debate on the Bedroom Tax 90% of Scottish MPs voted against it but still it is imposed.  I wonder if our referendum was asking us to form this union rather than restore our independence, how many of us would vote to be governed by a parliament where our voice goes unheard on such important matters as welfare or defence?  

An Independent Scotland has never meant isolation or separatism to me, independence is a natural state of affairs.  When we encourage independence in our young people it is because we know in our hearts that it is best for them to be able to stand on their own two feet.  To take responsibility for themselves and their decisions and, most importantly, exercise their right to make the choices that are best for them.  Anything less than full autonomy feels undignified.  Why on earth wouldn’t we want to take full responsibility for the decisions that affect all of us? 

My eldest daughter was born in 1996 and in 2014 she will be joining with young folk all over the country in voting for the first time in our historic referendum.  It’s an exciting time politically and only right that 16 and 17 year olds will take part in determining the future of our nation.   For them, the devolved Scottish parliament has always had responsibility for many of the areas that affect their lives.   And it’s this control that has allowed us to make different choices here in Scotland, choices that reflect our values and wishes for our society.  Unlike in England, we can retain and protect our NHS ensuring it is run in the interest of patients and not profit and provide free personal care for our older people.  College and University are an opportunity accessible to all with ability not only those able to pay.

I care about social justice and equality for all not just Scotland’s people.  In areas of Health policy Scotland has pioneered the smoking ban and minimum alcohol pricing being good examples of where Westminster has followed our lead.  Showing that decisions we make independently here can have a positive impact on our friends and neighbours south of the border.  A progressive approach to welfare and employability could make an equally good impression, with Scotland presenting a better way than Westminster austerity, driving debate and accelerating change in the other countries on this island.  For those of us opposed to nuclear weapons, an Independent Scotland provides the only realistic opportunity to remove them from our soil and indeed the constitution for our newly independent country could choose to ban them entirely from our land.

I have high hopes for Scotland, for a caring society where there are opportunities for all our citizens and support for those who need it.  An independent Scotland is not a panacea to all our social and economic problems.  The global challenges being faced will not disappear overnight and we may not always get things right first time, but decisions will be made by a parliament 100% accountable, responsible and reflecting the wishes of the people of Scotland.  For that to happen, the people making those choices must be those who care most about Scotland, the people living and working here.  Our voices must be heard. 

Yes, Scotland should be an independent country.

Radical Independence Campaign - Irvine

The Radical Independence Campaign have organised a People's Assembly in Irvine.  The event is taking place on Monday the 18th March at 7pm in The Volunteer Rooms in Irvine.  For more information visit 

http://radicalindependence.org/ 

You can contact the organisers by telephone 07894994117 or  email radicalirvine@gmail.com 

YES day of Action - 26th January 2013

The 26th of January sees activists all over Scotland taking to the streets for a day of action.  Here in Irvine YES North Ayrshire campaigners will be busy at the cross from 1030 speaking with shoppers, visitors and workers about the possibilities of Independent Scotland.  Members of all parties or none who support Independence are most welcome to come and help.  For details of events near you visit www.yesscotland.net 

Do you believe Scotland should be an Independent country?

YES! 

Join Yes Scotland, people of all political parties and of no political party most welcome.

This Saturday North Ayrshire activists will be in Saltcoats and Largs.  Visit www.yesscotland.net and see how you can get involved.

NATO no ta.

Hopelessly naive and not tired of marching - 1 week on

When I was in primary 5 our teacher Mrs Johnston said she had something really important to tell us: There was going to be a day off as her union was striking.  I don't remember whooping at the day off but then P5 was a very diligent year at Drakies Primary, Inverness.  She told us that although she wasn't in favour of the strike she would be taking part as that was democratic. I remember feeling very grown up as she then went on to explain firstly what a union was the importance of democracy and democratic process. It stayed with me that lesson, not simply for the content but the respect with which she showed us with her honesty and explanation.

So respect, process and democracy.....even though I felt sick to my stomach at the prospect, that was how I tried to square things when the notion of reversing my parties long standing opposition to NATO membership became a reality.  The issue would be debated fully and freely, due process would be followed and I would live with the decision because that's democracy and the right thing to do.  Simple eh?

Not really.  I have had many sleepless nights since Friday trying to figure what is the right thing to do.  If I were not an elected member my membership card may well have joined others in the bucket on the way out of the conference hall.   Membership of a first strike nuclear alliance is not compatible with my long held and firm belief that nuclear weapons, weapons which kill indiscriminately and leave untold damage for years to come are wicked and wrong.  As many of the speakers touched on during the debate the nuclear issue is only one area for concern, recent reports of the increase of Drone attacks in Pakistan provide an illustration.

I will not support the new policy, and couldn't live with myself pretending to.  This is a matter of conscience for me. When brothers and sisters on the left and the anti-war movement cry "shame" for the hypocrisy it stings, because they are right.  Scotland has an opportunity to lead the way with nuclear disarmament and NATO membership at best makes it difficult, probably delays it and at worst prevents it.  

But as well as a responsibility to my own conscience, as a local elected member I have a responsibility to serve the people that voted me into this job.  A responsibility to continue on the platform I was elected on, this policy decision does not affect that.  I have to ask if this decision stops me fulfilling pledges made or aspirations myself and my fellow Councillors have for North Ayrshire, it does not.  On the doorstep when answering folk as to why there were 2 SNP candidates in the ward our message was unequivocal, the SNP wish to form the administration and run North Ayrshire council.  We are and I hope that the people who live here are beginning to see changes for the better. 

For Scotland, independence is not and cannot be about the vision of one person or political party.  To win the referendum we need many diverse voices.  I will be proud to be one of them in the Scottish National Party shoulder to shoulder with Labour for Indy, The Greens, SSP, Solidarity and perhaps most key those who have no political party as part of the YES campaign, working together for the goal that unites us Scottish Independence. 

YES North Ayrshire success

Lots of visitors to our stall in Irvine this morning made for another successful mornings campaigning for YES North Ayrshire.  


Along with existing supporters of Independence stopping by to pick up booklets and sign the " Yes" declaration we were also delighted to talk with many "maybes" and indeed some "Nos"!  


It was particularly heartening to see the number of folk leaving with Red "YES" stickers.It would seem an increasing number of Labour voters see the opportunity that an Independent Scotland brings.




You can sing the declaration of support here  

YES North Ayrshire

Join us this Saturday in Irvine to sign the declaration and show your support for an Independent Scotland.  We will be at the Bridgegate in Irvine town centre from 1030.

You can also sign up online here and read more about the case for an Independent Scotland and how you can show your support.  

The Yes (North Ayrshire) campaign team are also tweeting news and updates @YES_N_Ayrshire

Electoral Reform Society backs no strings referendum

Great news today that The Electoral Reform Society have spoken out for the principle that no strings should be attached by the UK Government to Scotland's referendum.

The ERS, which describes itself as “an independent campaigning organisation to champion the rights of voters and improve UK democracy”, says it examined legislation, took on board opinions and spoke to experts before coming to its conclusion.

In today’s Herald newspaper the ERS’s Juliet Swann is quoted: “We are recommending the Scottish Parliament be provided with a no-strings-attached legal mandate to call a referendum at a time and with a question or questions of their choosing.”

And she added: “The Society supports votes for 16 and 17-year-olds.”

Welcoming the comments, Stewart Maxwell, SNP MSP for West Scotland and member of the Scotland Bill Committee, said:

“The ERS have spoken to experts and pored over legislation before coming to the conclusion that attaching strings is unacceptable and the referendum should be decided by the Scottish people and the Scottish parliament.

“This is welcome backing from an organisation that is fighting to improve UK democracy and championing the rights of voters.

“Only yesterday, constitutional expert Matt Qvortrup said the UK Government should back off from threatening legal action by the UK Supreme Court.

“The question now is will Westminster listen to these growing calls for the referendum to be made in Scotland and decided by the people of Scotland?

“I am also delighted that the ERS wants 16 and 17-year-olds to vote, endorsing the SNP’s stance for young adults to be able to vote in all elections.

“Young adults of this age should be given the right to have their say on Scotland’s future.

“In the face of this growing evidence that the referendum belongs to the people of Scotland, the anti-independence parties must rethink their stance and put the democratic rights of the people of Scotland at the top of their priorities.”

Independence 2014 - and how to stand for photos

Cunninghame South Candidates with
Margaret Burgess MSP & special guest Humza Yousaf MSP

Last nights Cunninghame South branch meeting was busy and buzzing with excitement.  The branch has welcomed nearly 100 new members this year so far.  I know it sounds like the sort of thing that people campaigning just say but there is a tangible sense of excitement and increased energy, it really has started.


Margaret Burgess MSP updated us on some of her activities in the parliament.  The good news that Irvine was announced as Life Sciences enterprise zone being one of the highlights.


Our guest speaker was Humza Yousaf MSP who kept everyone entertained as well as informed sharing his background and vision along with some of the stranger scare stories that had appeared in the press and online about what would happen in an Independent Scotland.  We were all suitably reassured about pandas etc!  Questions and discussion followed on both serious matters of engaging others in the debate, sharing a platform with other parties, figure heads and ambassadors for the yes campaign, that 3rd question and lighter issues too. In answer to Michelle Mones twitter outburst which muppet he would be.....Kermit.  


Also generously shared was the best way to stand for photographs, you'll see from the above pic who listened!  


The branch usually meets on the last Monday of the month at The Volunteer Rooms in Irvine.  Get in touch if you would like information about joining us.

Saturday Voting to boost turnout

For me, imagining an independent Scotland very much includes thinking about how we engage more people in the democratic process.  How we vote might be a good place to start, could there be different ways to the traditional ballet paper?  Participation in shows on TV is huge I wonder, would the same number of folk vote for talent show finalists if they had to go out in the wind and rain to their local school or community centre to do so.  With all our varied ways of communicating and sharing information quickly and easily is it time to take a leaf out of their book when it comes to engaging the people and use an electronic method?


I think so, I appreciate that there are probably cost implications and of course the security and integrity of the data collected would have to be paramount, but as we move forward it's certainly worth investigating.    

I read MSP Humza Yousaf's comments about Saturday voting with interest today and look forward to hearing more when the First Minister announces the referendum consultation on Wednesday.


A story in today’s Courier says that holding the historic vote on a Saturday will be one of the issues up for public discussion as part of the Scottish Government’s consultation document published on Wednesday.

Mr Yousaf, the SNP’s youngest MSP, said:

“This is an extremely interesting idea that could boost voter turnout.

“The vote on Scotland’s constitutional future will be one of the biggest decisions we will ever make as a country – it will be a truly historic day when people are given the chance to choose independence and equality for their country.

“That is why I welcome looking at options on how to boost the number of people who vote, and I look forward to hearing the details when the First Minister announces the consultation document on Wednesday.

“This document will give people the chance to judge the Scottish Government’s proposals and submit their views on how they want the referendum to be run. But we firmly believe the referendum must be built in Scotland and the decision must be made by the people of Scotland.

“It will be a defining point in Scotland’s history so it is vital that those from all political sides in this country are given the best opportunity to come and make their voices heard.”