Sea bridge study an interesting prospect
There can be little doubt that the idea of building a bridge linking the Wigtownshire coast with Northern Ireland has proved a talking point this winter for both enthusiasts and sceptics.
The debate was triggered by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who has been interested in the concept for some time and has again floated the idea, which would have substantial economic benefits for both sides of the North Channel.
Such a major civil engineering project would be expensive, ambitious and challenging although is acknowledged by some experts as a technically feasible scheme, which could prove to be of global significance.
The current dialogue is another example of the new UK Government thinking outside the box.
It appears that while a link between Scotland at the remote Mull of Kintyre and Torr Head in Northern Ireland would be the shortest route at around 12 miles, the crossing from the Portpatrick area to the Larne coast, at approximately 26 miles, looks the more practical.
There is little doubt this ambitious proposal would be extremely challenging to deliver, both from the technical and funding point of view.
However, it would be an internationally strategic project which would have the potential of bringing the nations of the British Isles closer together for generations to come.
Clearly there would be many benefits for Dumfries and Galloway -- Stranraer and the west of the region in particular -- both during the construction phase and in the longer term.
But as local people are only too aware, the deep North Channel can be a treacherous place in stormy weather and there would be a need to overcome difficulties posed by the proximity of Beaufort's Dyke.
That's why I welcome the possibility of a detailed feasibility study, reflecting advances in engineering and design and learning from long-distance bridge and tunnel structures elsewhere in the world.
Above all, I would like to see what opportunities such a massive project would bring in generating new business and employment locally and in facilitating an early upgrading of the A75 and A77 trunk roads which would carry traffic to and from any Wigtownshire coast sea bridge.
Coastal areas in focus
SOUTH west Scotland's scenic and rugged coastline is one of our many breathtaking natural attractions.
That's why I'm pleased VisitScotland has designated 2020 as a special Year of Coast and Waters.
A series of events is planned, including a Gretna to Stranraer 'Rowaround Scotland' stage, special activities on Loch Ken and more coastal rowing.
This special year builds on the success of the SkiffieWorlds -- the World Championship Coastal Rowing and Shoreside Festival -- which drew large crowds to Stranraer last year and prompted a visit by HRH Princess Anne.
It gives me extra material as I sing the praises of the region at Westminster and encourage colleagues and others to come and see Dumfries and Galloway for themselves.
Indyref2 damaging impact
I welcome Prime Minister Boris Johnson's letter to Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon firmly rejecting her call for a second independence referendum.
Not unexpectedly, the SNP continue to push their agenda to split the UK at every opportunity, but the Conservative Government's large working majority at Westminster has brought increased stability across the country.
That is good for the economy, jobs and allows long postponed investment decisions to be made.
It also means that an orderly Brexit can be delivered as we build a positive new relationship with Europe and the wider world.
However, I agreed with Adam Tomkins, Scottish Conservatives' shadow Constitution Secretary, when he stated last week that the SNP's war of words demanding a second divisive independence referendum is continuing to hold Scotland back.
Going above and beyond
I was delighted to see constituents included in The Queen's New Year Honours list.
Both Mark Jardine of Kirkbean and Kathleen Picken from Kirkcudbright are worthy recipients of the MBE and have made a remarkable contribution to the area.
Mark has been a driving force behind the People's Project in Dumfries and receives the honour for services to the community.
Teacher Kathleen has been involved in music, education and charity work in the Kirkcudbright area and beyond for almost 40 years and has been an inspiration to generations of young people.
Meanwhile, I was pleased to see a community champion in the east of the constituency, Peter Angelini, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Special Honours List.
After witnessing some of the horrors of World War Two as a child in his native Italy, he eventually made his home in Dumfries and for more than 61 years has used almost every spare minute actively supporting charities, other organisations and individuals in need of help.
Looking much younger than his 81 years, former council worker Peter is also a poet who writes verses about important local occasions such as last year's opening of a children's literacy centre at Moat Brae, Dumfries.
My warm congratulations to everyone with links to Dumfries and Galloway Constituency who features on the honours lists.
Excellent turnout in election
There are many reasons I value our democracy -- not least the surprising number of countries worldwide where there is no automatic right to vote.
That's why I was delighted to see last month's excellent general election turnout, around 70 per cent, despite the wintry conditions across Dumfries and Galloway constituency.
I wish to thank everyone who exercised their vote, either by post or through their local polling station, including the 22,678 people who gave me their support.
Rest assured, whatever way you voted, I will do my utmost to highlight within the UK Government the particular issues facing our beautiful part of the world.
