Sir,
It has been an honour to represent the islands as regional MSP over the last nine years, and I was immensely proud to be asked by our local party to stand in the Na H Eileanan an Iar constituency.
Over these years, and for the duration of the election campaign, I have heard people’s real concerns about jobs and services; their significant unease about the future of CalMac; their worries that the future of crofting is under threat with a real sense that centralised government simply does not understand this vital industry.
Two of my proudest achievements as an MSP have been to deliver a dedicated MS nurse for the Western Isles and to gain recognised status for Stornoway Black Pudding. Neither was easy, but we made it happen.
Without doubt, this vibrant community faces many imminent challenges which have been ignored by the SNP government. People tell me that they are hungry for change. I am truly humbled when people who have never voted Labour before tell me that they will be voting for us on Thursday.
I, the local party members and supporters have sought to speak to as many people as possible, both in the town centre, at their doors and on the phone. We have tried to contact as many people as possible – we will never speak to everyone but we have a great campaign office in Cromwell Street, where there is always a cup of tea on the go, and a welcome for anyone who pops in. For people living in Uist and Barra, who cannot easily pop into the office we have held meet the candidate events.
I have also had the opportunity to catch up with friends and family when I get a minute. But the campaign trail has meant that I am also finding members of my family that I had not met before – I think I have a cousin in every village!
A vote for Scottish Labour on Thursday, is not just a vote for me, it is a vote for an end to austerity and a vote of confidence in the local party.
I want to thank you for your support and would ask for your vote on Thursday:
Together we can take action to reverse decisions that will harm our islands.
Together we can demand the changes so desperately needed.
Together we can fight to build a bright future.
Rhoda Grant
Scottish Labour and Co-
Na h-
34 Cromwell Street
Stornoway
Letter: Labour promises to build a bright future
3 May 2016