I WANT to start my column by expressing my heartfelt thoughts with everyone affected by the incident on Irvine Beach last weekend.
I also want to thank all of the emergency workers for their professionalism in dealing with what I know was an extremely distressing situation.
I know the local community will come together, as it always does in times of grief. However, many people are concerned about disturbances such as this when periods of warm weather attract many people to public hot spots.
There will be a time and place for discussing this I believe, but for now our thoughts are with the family of those affected by this horrific incident.
North Ayrshire and Arran is home to proud, resilient communities who care deeply about their local area. But what I hear most from constituents is a simple and consistent message: they want to see the basics done right.
Across the region, access to healthcare remains one of the top concerns which fills my casework bag.
People are telling me that it’s harder than ever to get a GP appointment. Some can’t get through on the phone, others face long waits, and many feel frustrated with being pushed toward remote consultations that don’t always meet their needs.
GPs and their teams are stretched while patient lists are growing, and communities are feeling the consequences.
In the Scottish Parliament’s Public Audit Committee last week, I questioned the Auditor General on this very issue. His report made for stark reading, highlighting that GP numbers are in decline, practices are closing, and the system is becoming unsustainable.
What we urgently need is a properly funded national workforce strategy. One focused on both recruitment and retention.
On a local level we need targeted support to areas across North Ayrshire and Arran to ensure everyone has access to a GP appointment, reducing the burden on A&E departments.
Another essential service in our part of the world is the ferry network, especially for our island communities. The continued delays to the MV Glen Rosa are incredibly frustrating for residents and businesses alike. They disrupt day-to-day lives, limit access to services, and damage the local economy.
The people of Arran deserve clarity, accountability, and above all, a functioning ferry service that they can depend on year-round. The Scottish Government needs to provide more than just excuses. We need ferries.
However, amongst the challenges, it’s important to recognise the positives too.
I was encouraged by pupils from Hayocks Primary in Stevenston, who recently shared their own ideas to tackle litter in their community. Their enthusiasm, pride, and sense of responsibility are inspiring.
These young people are setting an example many adults could follow, and local leaders should meet that energy with real support and action.
Ultimately, access to healthcare, transport, and clean and safe public space aren’t unreasonable asks, they’re the building blocks of a fair and functioning society.
It’s what people pay their taxes for after all.
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