As we reach another milestone, after what has been several challenging years globally, I see more positive trends emerging locally and nationally.
Valuable lessons, I’m sure, will come from the Covid Inquiries in Scotland and UK-wide which should help shape responses to any future global pandemics.
Meanwhile, with inflation falling, the economy is slowly, but surely, turning a corner and growth should improve prospects and help ease cost-of-living challenges in large rural areas like Dumfries and Galloway.
The impact of the war in Ukraine, caused by Russian aggression, and, most recently, the unfolding Middle East conflict have both been far-reaching.
Practical and financial support from the UK for Ukraine has been greatly appreciated, whilst in the Middle East the UK Government’s diplomatic and humanitarian efforts remain focused on stemming horrific bloodshed in Israel and Gaza.
Closer to home, I welcome progress, supported by the UK Government, on Stranraer regeneration and other UK grant-funded projects including at Dalbeattie, New Galloway, Whithorn and Dumfries where a ‘game-changing’ £20m Levelling Up package will help revive the town centre.
Equally significant is an £8m UK Government investment to fund an essential study identifying priority A75 realignment options, which should secure a much-needed Springholm and Crocketford by-pass.
Region-wide, nearly £14m in UK Government investment in charging infrastructure will co-incide with a fleet of new e-buses taking to local roads whilst various UK Borderlands Growth Deal projects also move ahead.
On a personal note, my envisaged two terms as your MP will reach a conclusion when I step down at the General Election due in the coming months.
It has been an honour and privilege to represent you and I will continue to do so until a successor is chosen at the ballot box. I then look forward to spending more time with my family, including my now two grandchildren.