Key workers hailed as 'an absolute lifeline' by Highlands and Islands MSP
North MSP Maree Todd has paid tribute to the dedicated key workers who are proving to be "an absolute lifeline" during the coronavirus emergency.
Ms Todd, an SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands, said: “Our frontline workers, from doctors and nurses to care assistants and shop workers, are turning up to work every day under extremely challenging circumstances to provide vital services to communities across the country.
“Just a matter of weeks ago, many of our key workers were deemed ‘low-skilled’ under proposed post-Brexit immigration policy. The truth is that they’re not low-skilled – they are undervalued.
“Without all of our key workers, we would be unable to respond to this pandemic in the way we are doing – they have been invaluable to the national response of this public health emergency, and they will be essential to our recovery too.”
Commenting on the measures put in place by supermarkets, shops and pharmacies, Ms Todd said: “Our supermarkets are facing unprecedented levels of demand right now, and I’m glad to see they have reacted swiftly to keep the environment as safe as possible for both customers and staff.
“It’s also reassuring to see the big supermarket chains delivering on their promise of making more delivery slots available for vulnerable and elderly customers.
“I’m sure many people will be noticing the changes put in place by supermarkets, shops and pharmacies within their local communities in the Highlands.
“I know everyone in the Highlands is as grateful as I am for the tremendous contribution from the key workers across the sectors. They have been an absolute lifeline in a time of crisis.”