Pro-Union media casts a distorted light on SNP achievements

We voted for the re-establishment of the Scottish Parliament, seeking to carve our path. We the people, collectively chose it. This wasn’t just a decision – it was a declaration that Scotland wanted its voice recognised and its decisions made by our own people.

Yet, as time has passed, our harmonious chorus has faced efforts to silence it.

The stark reality is that the powers of our Parliament, our institution of devolution, are under grave threat. The Internal Market Act has been wielded by UK ministers as a tool to reclaim control of critical devolved powers, effectively bypassing our own elected representatives. Last week, the Parliament that stands as a symbol of Scotland’s voice declared that the Act must be repealed.

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The Internal Market Act’s introduction has become a looming shadow, circumventing the parliament that Scotland believed would represent its aspirations. This feels like watching our clear Scottish water slowly being muddied – its clarity and purpose clouded.

With the Brexit debacle and an evident cost of living crisis, we would assume the focus of any UK government would be on providing tangible relief to its citizens. Instead, the narrative has been redirected towards political manoeuvring, with policies that often don’t resonate with Scottish people.

While Westminster remains embroiled in its crises, many in Scotland are feeling the pinch – from rising bills to uncertain futures. Brexit is a mere example of what underscores the widening chasm between Westminster’s priorities and Scotland’s needs.

And amidst this backdrop, Scotland’s needs have become even more pronounced. Where the focus should have been on alleviating hardships, it has drifted towards a mix of political posturing and misdirection.

The SNP, over the years, have been tireless in promoting Scotland’s welfare. Our statements of that aren’t enough though, as we realise our track record must also speak for itself. We have initiated policies that resonate with the very essence of Scotland, be it in education, health, or infrastructure.

Yet our achievements often face a barrage of unfavourable critique from a predominantly pro-Union media.

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The challenge isn’t just to do good but to ensure that this good is seen, understood, and appreciated. We must stand tall and we must showcase what we have done. The pro-Union media often casts a sceptical, sometimes distorted, light on our achievements and in this climate, it’s imperative to not just act but to ensure our actions are transparent and communicated effectively. Particularly when we talk of independence.

While looking at the recent mismanagement at Westminster, can anyone genuinely say we’re better off in this Union? Or is it fear of change that folk get stuck in? We need to show that with independence the decisions will be ours. We’ll craft our destiny, anchored in the rich traditions of Scotland but looking forward to a progressive future.

When I discuss Scottish independence with undecideds or soft Nos, they often question the viability of an independent Scotland, pointing towards potential economic challenges. However, recent events raise the question in an evidenced way, and we can now ask people do you believe we are currently on a sustainable path under Westminster’s governance?

The struggles faced by everyday Scots cannot be taken lightly and we must get this out on every doorstep, in every conversation we have and at every opportunity. The Westminster-induced cost of living crisis could have been buffered and some issues could have been avoided had we been independent.

We cannot rely on a government that seems detached from our realities. It’s time for decisions made by Scotland, for Scotland. The real-life narratives of our fellow Scots bear testament to the challenges at hand. The Westminster-driven cost of living crisis isn’t an abstract concept – it’s a daily struggle faced by many.

Conversations in households are increasingly about making ends meet rather than planning for a prosperous future. Ask the question: ‘“How long can we be tethered to decisions made not just miles away, but a million miles away in ideology, often to the detriment of us?’

While the SNP remain committed, we know we cannot take our position for granted. Every ounce of trust from the Scottish people is hard-earned and we pledge to keep earning it, day in and day out.

For every step forward, we risk a step back if we take our eye off the ball for a second. But we need your help. The road to independence, to a Scotland that stands proud and autonomous, is paved with challenges. We need to rally together, be informed and be active. Each one of us plays a pivotal role in this grand tapestry of change. It’s a collective effort, drawing strength from each Scot’s and New Scot’s passion and commitment.

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Further, as the world evolves, so do the complexities of governance. Climate change, technological advancements, and shifting global dynamics – all these present challenges and opportunities. An independent Scotland can navigate these waters, setting policies tailor-made for its people.

Our vision extends beyond immediate concerns, looking at long-term sustainability and growth. I often stop to ponder how the essence of Scotland isn’t just in its past but in its potential future, what can we become, building on what we have and who we are.

We’re building a new Scotland but its foundations lie in our choices, our unity, and our relentless spirit. Let’s champion our cause with vigour, hope, and, most importantly, informed action. It’s a future shaped by unity, informed decisions, and an indomitable spirit that has always defined us.

As we chart this course, let’s urge every Scot to join us, bringing to life the Scotland we’ve always envisioned. We must be relentless in our pursuit. We may get tired, but that’s the beauty of collective teamwork– when one is down, another takes the wheel. Let’s show the Westminster debacle just how determined we really are.