Published on 27 December 2023
As we finish off the leftovers and recover from a hectic few weeks at work or school, the time between Christmas and the New Year can provide some much-needed breathing space for many of us. Now that Christmas Day has passed, I hope that you have the opportunity to wind down, relax, and reflect on 2023 before the preparations for Hogmanay celebrations begin.
I know the past year has been another difficult one for many people, with worsening global insecurity and the ongoing cost of living crisis. The Scottish Government is working hard to support the people of Scotland in deeply challenging times. That’s why the Budget presented by Deputy First Minister Shona Robison last week was focused on funding to invest in public services and protect the most vulnerable in our society. We will raise social security benefits in line with inflation, and record funding of £14 billion for local government will help protect local services at this crucial time. Of course the Scottish Government cannot mitigate every cut made by Westminster, nor the disastrous effects of Brexit, but this is a Budget that reflects our shared values as a nation and speaks to the kind of Scotland that we want to be.
As well as being a time for reflection, the days between Christmas and New Year are a chance to recharge and prepare to face the challenges and opportunities of the new year. Over the next few weeks, my Annual Report will be delivered to every household in Mid Fife and Glenrothes. The Annual Report is an opportunity for all MSPs to highlight their work in their constituency each year. I look forward to sharing this with you early in the new year.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish my constituents a Happy Hogmanay when it comes, and all the very best for 2024. With this said, I understand the many challenges that will come with the new year, and my team and I are here to help. My office will reopen following a short break on 8 January, and you can contact me for assistance on 01592 764815 or via email at Jenny.Gilruth.MSP@parliament.scot.
