Meeting of the Parliament 18 March 2026 [Draft]
I am aware of the Whitesands flood protection scheme. Its purpose is to combine major flood defences with significant public realm improvements. It is set to start this spring after receiving approval from Dumfries and Galloway Council. I am aware of the member’s concerns. However, there are issues to do with reducing flood risk and enhancing recreation and active travel opportunities. Ultimately, as I understand it, it is a decision that the local council has made. Therefore, the member’s comments should be directed to representatives of the local authority.
This is my last planned comment in the chamber before I leave my post as an MSP so, if I may, I will take a brief moment to thank, from the depths of my heart, everyone who has enabled me to serve our country and the communities of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch over the past 10 years.
I thank the staff and officials of the Parliament and the Government, colleagues across the chamber who have become friends and everybody who has an interest in the decisions that we make.
I feel as though I have squeezed multiple lifetimes into the past 10 years—certainly, I barely recognise the young woman who was elected 10 years ago, aged 26, to represent the constituency of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch.
Above all else, I have always enjoyed intelligent debate, good-natured disagreement and constructive engagement and, sometimes, I have even been able to make a difference. I leave with enormous respect for colleagues across the chamber, many of whom argue their case robustly but with respect and wisdom.
Our democracy relies on debate, and debate requires at least two people who disagree. Disagreement does not require bitterness, animosity or malice. I hope that the next Parliament can exemplify the joy of dispute and debate in the service of our constituents. [Applause.]