Investing in the future
I was disappointed, but not surprised, to see SNP Scottish Government ministers attempt to obstruct a UK study into major infrastructure investment in Dumfries and Galloway.
Projects being considered include upgrading of the A75 and A77 together with feasibility studies into building a Dumfries - Stranraer railway and, most ambitious, a tunnel / bridge connecting the region to Northern Ireland.
As we leave the EU and plan economic recovery after Covid-19, the UK Government sees strategic infrastructure which improves connectivity across the UK single market as a priority.
The prospect of additional Treasury funding for such projects is potentially extremely good news for jobs and the economy in Dumfries and Galloway.
So what was the response of independence obsessed SNP ministers at Holyrood? Officials from Transport Scotland were instructed to not to engage with the UK review.
Sadly, another SNP slap in the face for my constituents who want to see the UK and Scottish Governments working together to improve our region.
Staying alert
Sadly recent weeks have brought an increase in Covid-19 across the country and in our own region.
Whilst Dumfries and Galloway remains less impacted than some areas, we have seen disturbing clusters, including in school and care home settings.
Once again, I'd like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to all local medical, care, emergency and other key workers for their ongoing efforts to help our communities.
With the virus likely to be with us for some time I would urge readers to continue following latest official advice on masks and social distancing and help safeguard our most vulnerable citizens.
Help at hand
I was pleased businesses in Dumfries and Galloway constituency have received additional Covid-19 support from the UK Government.
There were 1,558 Bounce Bank Loans arranged with a combined value of £44,547,166 whilst 63 Business Interruption Loans were offered totalling £9,680,307.
Across Scotland the UK Government provided £2.9 billion in loans to assist in the current pandemic phase whilst 126,000 self-employed individuals received financial assistance.
This support is in addition to extra funding provided by the UK Treasury directly to the Scottish Government with the tally so far standing at £7.2 billion.
Congratulations
Finally, I would also like to offer my congratulations to my MSP colleague Finlay Carson and his fiancee Cllr Jackie McCamon on the birth of their second child Leo John, who will be a brother for Rowan. Good news on which to end!