Maree Todd praises senior Scottish Government figures for 'engaging positively' in Caithness
Local MSP Maree Todd has praised senior Scottish Government figures for "engaging positively" with the Caithness community on health and energy issues.
Health secretary Humza Yousaf visited Wick in August for meetings with Caithness Health Action Team (CHAT) and a women’s wellbeing group.
Richard Lochhead, the minister for just transition, employment and fair work, was also in the county last month for discussions about the Scottish Government’s Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan (ESJTP).
Ms Todd, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross said: “We know that Caithness faces a distinct set of challenges, so it’s great to have representatives from the Scottish Government come and visit to hear directly from those who live and work here."
Mr Yousaf held an hour-long meeting with CHAT during which he was told about the impact on families caused by the downgrading of Caithness maternity services. He indicated that a review would be carried out.
The health secretary had earlier met Kirsteen Campbell, Rebecca Wymer and Claire Clark from the North Highland Women’s Wellbeing Hub. They highlighted how the downgrading at Caithness General Hospital has had an impact on local gynaecology provision and spoke about the dangers of travelling after surgery and the increased risk of deep vein thrombosis.
Ms Todd, the minister for public health, women's health and sport, said: “I was pleased to hear that during his meeting with CHAT, the cabinet secretary agreed to explore whether some element of external, independent participation could be brought to the Best Start North review, and that he will be following up with NHS Highland to explore whether services could be delivered locally, both maternity and non-maternity related.
“I was pleased that the cabinet secretary also had the opportunity to meet with Kirsteen, Rebecca and Claire from the North Highland Women’s Wellbeing Hub to hear more about the valuable work they do.
"I’m grateful for the hub’s engagement with NHS Highland and with government – I know their input is hugely valued.”
Mr Lochhead met stakeholders in Caithness to talk about the ESJTP, which will be refreshed later this year.
The Scottish Government is looking for nuclear communities to submit their views on Scotland’s future energy system.
“I was delighted that the minister accepted my invitation to visit Caithness this summer to engage with community stakeholders about the upcoming ESJTP," Ms Todd said.
“Caithness is well placed to lead the way in the energy industry. Not only are we ideally placed for low-carbon, renewable investment, but as a nuclear community we have world-class skills that will be invaluable to Scotland’s future energy system.
“I know that the Scottish Government is committed to keeping dialogue open to enable an energy strategy that is developed in partnership with communities across Scotland.
“Gathering a diverse range of perspectives, insights and evidence from communities like those in Caithness will help to inform the development of the strategy and I would encourage my constituents to consider engaging in the Scottish Government’s consultation process."
She added: “I’m grateful to both the cabinet secretary and the minister for taking the time to visit Caithness this summer and for engaging positively and constructively with local campaigners, stakeholders and the community.”