Wear a Hat Day, salmon farming, RTS

Wear a Hat Day 2025
Once again I was delighted to host Brain Tumour Research’s ‘Wear a Hat Day’ in the Scottish Parliament. MSP’s took part in a photocall after First Minister’s questions and attended a drop in session afterwards highlighting the need for more support to improve and develop treatments, research and find a cure, as well as increase support for patients and families.

Rural Affairs and Islands Committee
The Rural Affairs and Islands Committee is seeking views on the Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill. The Bill aims to support the protection and restoration of Scotland’s natural environment, and to assist the delivery of the Scottish Government’s net zero and biodiversity objectives.

Salmon farming
This week presented the opportunity to voice my support for the salmon farming industry firstly in a debate on Scotland’s food and drink sector where I outlined my view that it is those ideologically opposed to salmon farming itself that is the biggest threat to the industry. In a debate on Thursday afternoon I summated a debate as Deputy Convener of the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee’s debate on its salmon farming report.

Shetland fire stations
On Wednesday afternoon I questioned the Minister for Community Safety on what resource and support the Scottish Government might be able to provide to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Hillswick, Bressay and Walls fire stations following the improvement notice issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The Minister said she would keep me updated.

Radio Teleswitch switch off
On Friday I attended a roundtable discussion in Glasgow with representatives of the energy sector about the upcoming RTS signal switch off on 30th June. The sector continues to work to change household meters and find workable solutions.  I know there has been a lack of information from the energy sector ahead of the switch off with advice being that when your energy company contacts you to respond and act. Our area faces geographic challenges with smart meters and the advice from energy suppliers is inconsistent. If you have an RTS meter but haven’t already contacted your energy supplier to see about a replacement I would urge you to do so. I have helped many constituents previously so if you have any issues with your electricity or getting a meter replacement or smart meter please get in contact through the details below.

Meetings
I also had several meetings across the week including a catch up with Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation, meeting with the Head of the Representation of the Faroe Islands in London, and the RSPB about the upcoming Natural Environment Bill. I also attended the Marie Curie Scotland Reception on Wednesday. The charity is the biggest charitable funder of palliative care research in the UK.