Powers of independence can help end poverty and tackle inequality, says Maree Todd
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North MSP Maree Todd has hailed a new report which points the way to a "fairer, more equal country" after the pandemic.
The Social Justice and Fairness Commission was set up by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to present a route map for delivering a fairer Scotland.
Its report is based on the central principle that the function of government is to make life better for everyone and ensure no-one is left behind in an independent Scotland.
The document calls for a bold approach on child poverty, drugs deaths and a national care service. It also backs the full devolution of employment law to the Scottish Parliament.
Ms Todd, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, said: "This report has explored in detail how Scotland can use the powers of independence to end poverty, tackle inequality and improve the lives of families across the country.
"It provides suggestions and solutions on issues affecting the Highlands and Scotland that have been particularly prominent and pressing during the pandemic, and that offer the greatest scope for tackling poverty, and building a fairer country.
"We now have an opportunity not simply to go back to how things were before Covid, but to address some of the challenges which have been thrown into sharp focus by the pandemic. Beyond the immediate priority of tackling the virus and keeping the country safe, we must consider how we build back a fairer, more equal country.
"It's vital that MSPs from all parties now look to the future and think about how we can help our people, businesses and communities rebound from this pandemic."
The report says the route map is "a model for inclusive decision-making that truly empowers the people of Scotland to shape our own future".
It adds: "The commission believes that with independence we can build on the foundations that have been laid under devolution by the Scottish Government. Our report offers a conversation starter to find consensus about the kind of Scotland we want to build with independence and how best to get there."
