The full list of nominations that Cathy has received are as follows :
Elected Members
Bill Butler MSP
Malcolm Chisholm MSP
Cathie Craigie MSP
Patricia Ferguson MSP
Marlyn Glen MSP
Rhoda Grant MSP
Hugh Henry MSP
Cathy Jamieson MSP
James Kelly MSP
Elaine Murray MSP
Cathy Peattie MSP
Karen Whitefield MSP
Katy Clark MP
David Hamilton MP
Sandra Osborne MP
Jim Sheridan MP
Gavin Strang MP
Trade Unions and Affiliates
ASLEF
NUM Scotland
Scottish Co-operative Party
Socialist Education Association Scotland
UCATT
Unison
USDAW
Constituency Labour Parties
Airdrie & Shotts CLP
Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock CLP
Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill CLP
Dumfries & Galloway CLP
East Renfrewshire CLP
Glasgow South West CLP
Glasgow North CLP
Kilmarnock and Loudoun CLP
Paisley and Renfrewshire North CLP
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
14.8.08
Cathy welcomes support from UCATT
Cathy Jamieson has thanked UCATT, the construction workers union for its support for her leadership bid.
She said:
"UCATT has a proud tradition in the Labour movement in Scotland.
"I have worked closely with UCATT members on issues that matter to its members and
that will continue."
Harry Frew, Regional Secretary of UCATT Scottish Region said:
"Cathy has a long history of working with all the trade union movement,
especially UCATT.
"It is essential that the next leader of the Scottish Labour Party understands the hopes and fears of working people."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
She said:
"UCATT has a proud tradition in the Labour movement in Scotland.
"I have worked closely with UCATT members on issues that matter to its members and
that will continue."
Harry Frew, Regional Secretary of UCATT Scottish Region said:
"Cathy has a long history of working with all the trade union movement,
especially UCATT.
"It is essential that the next leader of the Scottish Labour Party understands the hopes and fears of working people."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
13.8.08
Jamieson calls for extension of Emergency Workers Act - Shop workers need protection
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson has called for an extension of the Emergency Workers Act to include others workers who serve the public - including shop workers and bar staff.
Ms Jamieson said:
"People who deal with the public provide a great service to our society, and should be able to go about their work without fear of attack or intimidation.
"I want to see the existing legislation widened to allow courts to deal with incidents as a specific offence carrying a maximum penalty of nine months in jail, a fine of £5,000 - or both.
"It will allow courts to send out a powerful signal that we will not tolerate anything which prevents people who work with the public from going about their jobs.
"Under the current legislation covering emergency workers there is a provision to add other groups by order and the SNP should do this as soon as is feasible.
"We have heard this year about staff who work in shops, pubs, and betting shops facing intimidation and violence.
"It's time that the law was tilted in their favour."
John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, said:
"This is exactly the kind of thing we want to be hearing from our politicians.
"Cathy Jamieson MSP clearly understands the needs of shopworkers to be protected from violence.
"I appreciate her taking the time to meet with Usdaw members to learn more about their personal experiences.
"We have been campaigning for 'Freedom From Fear' for shopworkers for several years now, as retail staff increasingly experience violence and threats of violence in the workplace.
"Cathy has been a strong supporter of Freedom From Fear throughout the campaign, including during her time as Justice Minister.
"We are delighted with today's commitment to further action, which shows that Cathy is listening and we wish her all the best in her campaign to become leader of the Labour Party in the Scottish Parliament"
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Ms Jamieson said:
"People who deal with the public provide a great service to our society, and should be able to go about their work without fear of attack or intimidation.
"I want to see the existing legislation widened to allow courts to deal with incidents as a specific offence carrying a maximum penalty of nine months in jail, a fine of £5,000 - or both.
"It will allow courts to send out a powerful signal that we will not tolerate anything which prevents people who work with the public from going about their jobs.
"Under the current legislation covering emergency workers there is a provision to add other groups by order and the SNP should do this as soon as is feasible.
"We have heard this year about staff who work in shops, pubs, and betting shops facing intimidation and violence.
"It's time that the law was tilted in their favour."
John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, said:
"This is exactly the kind of thing we want to be hearing from our politicians.
"Cathy Jamieson MSP clearly understands the needs of shopworkers to be protected from violence.
"I appreciate her taking the time to meet with Usdaw members to learn more about their personal experiences.
"We have been campaigning for 'Freedom From Fear' for shopworkers for several years now, as retail staff increasingly experience violence and threats of violence in the workplace.
"Cathy has been a strong supporter of Freedom From Fear throughout the campaign, including during her time as Justice Minister.
"We are delighted with today's commitment to further action, which shows that Cathy is listening and we wish her all the best in her campaign to become leader of the Labour Party in the Scottish Parliament"
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
11.8.08
Cathy welcomes union support
10 August 2008
Cathy Jamieson has welcomed the endorsement of USDAW, the shop and distributive workers union, and ASLEF, the railworkers union in her bid to become Labour Leader in the Scottish Parliament.
She said:
"I am pleased that two such significant and influential unions have offered their support to me.
"Trade Unions represent a very important part of life in Scotland and the issues worrying trade union members reflect the worries of many more Scots.
"These are the first unions to declare and I will be working hard over the next week to try to secure more Trade Union support."
Keith Norman ASLEF's General Secretary said:
"Our union shares Cathy's vision for social justice in Scotland.
"We know her as a forthright and open politician and welcome her understanding of our union and our industry."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Cathy Jamieson has welcomed the endorsement of USDAW, the shop and distributive workers union, and ASLEF, the railworkers union in her bid to become Labour Leader in the Scottish Parliament.
She said:
"I am pleased that two such significant and influential unions have offered their support to me.
"Trade Unions represent a very important part of life in Scotland and the issues worrying trade union members reflect the worries of many more Scots.
"These are the first unions to declare and I will be working hard over the next week to try to secure more Trade Union support."
Keith Norman ASLEF's General Secretary said:
"Our union shares Cathy's vision for social justice in Scotland.
"We know her as a forthright and open politician and welcome her understanding of our union and our industry."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Can't afford to leave our children's future to chance - Leadership contender calls for better start to school
9 August 2008
Cathy Jamieson has called for a £15 million package to deliver at least 500 qualified early-years workers to help boost attainment in Primary 1.
The Labour leadership candidate said that her plan would make a huge difference in Scotland's youngsters.
She said that she has been listening to parents, teachers, and Labour Party members and worries about transition to school had come up as a real issue.
It is envisaged that the 500 workers would be targeted at the schools who were struggling the most with attainment levels but with a view to a wider roll-out to every Primary 1 classroom.
Ms Jamieson said:
"Children who are struggling at age five and six with basic skills too often go on to struggle at 11 and at 16.
"Early intervention is the key to ensuring that every child can succeed and this plan is a bold but vital intervention.
"Increasingly it is recognised that children at this stage learn better and develop faster by exposure to active learning through purposeful play.
"Results from across Europe show that in countries where active learning through play is common, children do extremely well at school.
"Young children at this stage learn better through exploration and active participation in play with a purpose.
"This more active approach prepares them better for later stages of their education, helps to raise levels of attainment and helps children in the transition to school.
"Active learning linked to literacy and numeracy initiatives will lead to better learning outcomes for children.
"The introduction of a properly qualified early-years worker would complement the work of the teacher and at a stroke would cut the adult/pupil ratio in Primary 1 at a time when the SNP's class size reduction is turning into a shambles across Scotland.
"We need to build on the good work already being done across Scotland.
"I am committed to providing our children with the best possible start in life and this plan will have a lasting benefit that will pay for itself in years to come."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Cathy Jamieson has called for a £15 million package to deliver at least 500 qualified early-years workers to help boost attainment in Primary 1.
The Labour leadership candidate said that her plan would make a huge difference in Scotland's youngsters.
She said that she has been listening to parents, teachers, and Labour Party members and worries about transition to school had come up as a real issue.
It is envisaged that the 500 workers would be targeted at the schools who were struggling the most with attainment levels but with a view to a wider roll-out to every Primary 1 classroom.
Ms Jamieson said:
"Children who are struggling at age five and six with basic skills too often go on to struggle at 11 and at 16.
"Early intervention is the key to ensuring that every child can succeed and this plan is a bold but vital intervention.
"Increasingly it is recognised that children at this stage learn better and develop faster by exposure to active learning through purposeful play.
"Results from across Europe show that in countries where active learning through play is common, children do extremely well at school.
"Young children at this stage learn better through exploration and active participation in play with a purpose.
"This more active approach prepares them better for later stages of their education, helps to raise levels of attainment and helps children in the transition to school.
"Active learning linked to literacy and numeracy initiatives will lead to better learning outcomes for children.
"The introduction of a properly qualified early-years worker would complement the work of the teacher and at a stroke would cut the adult/pupil ratio in Primary 1 at a time when the SNP's class size reduction is turning into a shambles across Scotland.
"We need to build on the good work already being done across Scotland.
"I am committed to providing our children with the best possible start in life and this plan will have a lasting benefit that will pay for itself in years to come."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Salmond turns his back on Aberdeen
8 August 2008
Labour Leadership contender Cathy Jamieson said today that Alex Salmond has turned his back on Aberdeen and its people.
Ms Jamieson spoke as Aberdeen City Council have brought in financial trouble shooter Robert Coomber to take over as Acting Chief Executive.
She said:
"Aberdeen is having to make £50 million of cuts because of the incompetence of the local Lib Dem/SNP Council and because Alex Salmond will not honour his promises.
"In the last week homelessness projects have gone to the wall after Aberdeen Council took £880,000 from the Cyrenians’ budget.
"The First Minister has stood by and watched Aberdeen's services crumble, whilst smiling and grinning his way around the rest of Scotland.
"He said he would go to Aberdeen during the summer and take his cabinet but that promise appears to have been broken.
"In April he said that he said he would not leave Aberdeen 'in the lurch' but that's exactly what he's done.
"I ran a children's organisation before coming to Holyrood and I know the vital work that voluntary organisations do.
"The wholesale destruction of services for people who need support in Aberdeen is shameful.
"Alex Salmond has tried to blame everybody but his silence has been deafening.
"Aberdeen's new financial trouble shooter will be left with a stark choice.
"Either cut jobs or cut even more services.
"Alex Salmond could provide a different solution and do what he promised, but clearly he doesn't care "
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour Leadership contender Cathy Jamieson said today that Alex Salmond has turned his back on Aberdeen and its people.
Ms Jamieson spoke as Aberdeen City Council have brought in financial trouble shooter Robert Coomber to take over as Acting Chief Executive.
She said:
"Aberdeen is having to make £50 million of cuts because of the incompetence of the local Lib Dem/SNP Council and because Alex Salmond will not honour his promises.
"In the last week homelessness projects have gone to the wall after Aberdeen Council took £880,000 from the Cyrenians’ budget.
"The First Minister has stood by and watched Aberdeen's services crumble, whilst smiling and grinning his way around the rest of Scotland.
"He said he would go to Aberdeen during the summer and take his cabinet but that promise appears to have been broken.
"In April he said that he said he would not leave Aberdeen 'in the lurch' but that's exactly what he's done.
"I ran a children's organisation before coming to Holyrood and I know the vital work that voluntary organisations do.
"The wholesale destruction of services for people who need support in Aberdeen is shameful.
"Alex Salmond has tried to blame everybody but his silence has been deafening.
"Aberdeen's new financial trouble shooter will be left with a stark choice.
"Either cut jobs or cut even more services.
"Alex Salmond could provide a different solution and do what he promised, but clearly he doesn't care "
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Pensioners ignored by the SNP
8 August 2008
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today hit out at the SNP for their 'abandonment' of Scotland pensioners and said that if she was elected Labour leader she would have a 'pensioners' champion' to highlight older people's needs.
Hit by rising fuel prices and cuts in services across Scotland, Ms Jamieson spoke to a group of pensioners from Shotts and said that if elected Scottish Labour leader she would prioritise policies for supporting Scotland's older people.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Pensioners in Scotland are bearing the brunt of the SNP's 'don't care' attitude.
"Services for older people are either being cut or charges have increased.
"The Central Heating Scheme – free and fair under Labour is now being means tested and home insulation schemes are being squeezed across the country.
"Pensioners have paid into the pot all their lives and they deserve a fair deal when they retire.
"It's not enough for Alex Salmon to complain about Westminster when it is his government that is making the cuts.
"Scottish Labour led by me will have a pensioners' champion and we will ensure that the views and needs of Scotland's pensioners run through our policies."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today hit out at the SNP for their 'abandonment' of Scotland pensioners and said that if she was elected Labour leader she would have a 'pensioners' champion' to highlight older people's needs.
Hit by rising fuel prices and cuts in services across Scotland, Ms Jamieson spoke to a group of pensioners from Shotts and said that if elected Scottish Labour leader she would prioritise policies for supporting Scotland's older people.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Pensioners in Scotland are bearing the brunt of the SNP's 'don't care' attitude.
"Services for older people are either being cut or charges have increased.
"The Central Heating Scheme – free and fair under Labour is now being means tested and home insulation schemes are being squeezed across the country.
"Pensioners have paid into the pot all their lives and they deserve a fair deal when they retire.
"It's not enough for Alex Salmon to complain about Westminster when it is his government that is making the cuts.
"Scottish Labour led by me will have a pensioners' champion and we will ensure that the views and needs of Scotland's pensioners run through our policies."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour needs to win the battle of ideas
6 August 2008
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today said that Labour needs progressive and workable policies to win future electoral battles.
Over the last week, Ms Jamieson has set out a range of issues that she believes Scottish Labour needs to address.
She has stressed the need to retain Labour's traditional values, but insists that they need to be applied to modern day Scotland in a more relevant way.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"My values are the same values that resonate with the people of Scotland.
"Quality public services, support for people to progress in education and tough action against those who damage our communities.
"My priority is to come up with the policies that will deliver for families across the country.
"To return to power Labour needs to win the battle of ideas with the Nationalists.
"Identifying the problems is not enough, Labour needs a leader who can drive us to find the solutions that Scotland needs.
"In the past week:
• Cathy Jamieson was the first leadership candidate to propose more affordable childcare to support hard working families.
• Cathy Jamieson demanded a Parliamentary enquiry into the questionable extension of the FirstScotRail contract. She supports the mutualisation of Network Rail (already a not for profit operation) to allow greater investment. She called for a not for profit franchise when the current FirstScotRail franchise ends with the money reinvested in improving safety and services.
• Cathy Jamieson was the first to call for a windfall tax to help those struggling with higher energy bills. And she called on Alex Salmond to start working in cooperation with Westminster to help hard-pressed Scots. As a start she suggested the SNP should increase investment in insulation programmes and stop the means testing of the central heating programme for pensioners.
• Cathy Jamieson pledged her support for higher bursaries for young people from poorer backgrounds who are under-represented at University.
• Cathy Jamieson made the call to set aside party political differences with an expert commission to tackle Scotland's problems with alcohol and violence. She said "Yes, I want to be Labour leader but more than that I want a safe and secure Scotland. I will work with anyone to do this."
• Ms Jamieson yesterday focused on the impact of the credit crunch, calling on ministers to increase funding for voluntary advice agencies to support people who are vulnerable to repossession and for encouragement for credit unions to offer mortgages and hardship loans.
Hugh Henry, Cathy's campaign manager said:
"Cathy Jamieson is determined to move Labour forward and confront the challenges facing both Labour and Scotland.
"She will continue to promote new practical policies over the coming weeks.
"Cathy's appeal across the whole Labour movement from elected representatives, to party members and trade unionists is because she has been putting forward a positive agenda based on ideas and will continue to do that."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today said that Labour needs progressive and workable policies to win future electoral battles.
Over the last week, Ms Jamieson has set out a range of issues that she believes Scottish Labour needs to address.
She has stressed the need to retain Labour's traditional values, but insists that they need to be applied to modern day Scotland in a more relevant way.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"My values are the same values that resonate with the people of Scotland.
"Quality public services, support for people to progress in education and tough action against those who damage our communities.
"My priority is to come up with the policies that will deliver for families across the country.
"To return to power Labour needs to win the battle of ideas with the Nationalists.
"Identifying the problems is not enough, Labour needs a leader who can drive us to find the solutions that Scotland needs.
"In the past week:
• Cathy Jamieson was the first leadership candidate to propose more affordable childcare to support hard working families.
• Cathy Jamieson demanded a Parliamentary enquiry into the questionable extension of the FirstScotRail contract. She supports the mutualisation of Network Rail (already a not for profit operation) to allow greater investment. She called for a not for profit franchise when the current FirstScotRail franchise ends with the money reinvested in improving safety and services.
• Cathy Jamieson was the first to call for a windfall tax to help those struggling with higher energy bills. And she called on Alex Salmond to start working in cooperation with Westminster to help hard-pressed Scots. As a start she suggested the SNP should increase investment in insulation programmes and stop the means testing of the central heating programme for pensioners.
• Cathy Jamieson pledged her support for higher bursaries for young people from poorer backgrounds who are under-represented at University.
• Cathy Jamieson made the call to set aside party political differences with an expert commission to tackle Scotland's problems with alcohol and violence. She said "Yes, I want to be Labour leader but more than that I want a safe and secure Scotland. I will work with anyone to do this."
• Ms Jamieson yesterday focused on the impact of the credit crunch, calling on ministers to increase funding for voluntary advice agencies to support people who are vulnerable to repossession and for encouragement for credit unions to offer mortgages and hardship loans.
Hugh Henry, Cathy's campaign manager said:
"Cathy Jamieson is determined to move Labour forward and confront the challenges facing both Labour and Scotland.
"She will continue to promote new practical policies over the coming weeks.
"Cathy's appeal across the whole Labour movement from elected representatives, to party members and trade unionists is because she has been putting forward a positive agenda based on ideas and will continue to do that."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Jamieson calls for better legal protection for home owners - "Credit crunch means access to justice is vital"
5 August 2008
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today called for the SNP to follow the lead of the Labour Government at Westminster and ensure Scottish families have the same legal protection as families across England and Wales.
UK Housing Minister Caroline Flint announced in May this year a £10m package of measures to support people facing mortgage repossession at the county court.
In Scotland support is now very difficult to obtain in housing cases and as the since the SNP, Conservatives and Lib Dems voted in the Justice Committee to increase civil court fees by 50 per cent it is thought access to justice will be even more diminished.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Kenny MacAskill was asked to take a decision earlier this year to follow the UK lead but he chose to ignore the needs of ordinary home owners.
"I am now calling on him to look again at his decision.
"Also the decision to raise civil court fees should be immediately reversed.
"With the on-going global financial situation it's vital that access to justice is as wide as possible.
"I want to ensure that the number of repossessions in Scotland is as small as possible but the system is not helping people trying to hang onto their homes.
"I am today calling for an expansion of civil legal aid during this financial crisis and an increase in grant funding for voluntary sector advice agencies such as Citizen's Advice Scotland.
"I also think that Credit Unions should be encouraged to offer mortgages for suitable clients with an expansion of low cost secured lending and budgeting services for debtors facing homelessness.
"We need to do more to help people ride through the global financial crisis and Scotland can do its bit now without waiting for anyone else."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today called for the SNP to follow the lead of the Labour Government at Westminster and ensure Scottish families have the same legal protection as families across England and Wales.
UK Housing Minister Caroline Flint announced in May this year a £10m package of measures to support people facing mortgage repossession at the county court.
In Scotland support is now very difficult to obtain in housing cases and as the since the SNP, Conservatives and Lib Dems voted in the Justice Committee to increase civil court fees by 50 per cent it is thought access to justice will be even more diminished.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Kenny MacAskill was asked to take a decision earlier this year to follow the UK lead but he chose to ignore the needs of ordinary home owners.
"I am now calling on him to look again at his decision.
"Also the decision to raise civil court fees should be immediately reversed.
"With the on-going global financial situation it's vital that access to justice is as wide as possible.
"I want to ensure that the number of repossessions in Scotland is as small as possible but the system is not helping people trying to hang onto their homes.
"I am today calling for an expansion of civil legal aid during this financial crisis and an increase in grant funding for voluntary sector advice agencies such as Citizen's Advice Scotland.
"I also think that Credit Unions should be encouraged to offer mortgages for suitable clients with an expansion of low cost secured lending and budgeting services for debtors facing homelessness.
"We need to do more to help people ride through the global financial crisis and Scotland can do its bit now without waiting for anyone else."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Jamieson calls for consensus on booze and blades
3 August 2008
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson says that Scotland's enduring and harmful relationship with alcohol and knife violence needs a cross-party consensus for it to be tackled effectively.
The former Justice Minister who led reforms on knife crime – which are being implemented by the current Scottish government – has proposed the setting up of a commission of experts and involving all the major parties to take the party politics out of the debate and identify workable solutions.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Yes, I want to be Labour leader, but more than that I want a safe and secure Scotland.
"I will work with anyone to deliver this.
"As Labour leader, my first act will be to write to Alex Salmond and the other party leaders to call for a non-partisan commission to look at how we are tackling booze and blade culture - bringing new ideas that build on the work that has gone before.
"This would involve all the major parties and experts from across Scotland.
"I expanded the remit of the the Violence Reduction Unit to cover the whole of Scotland and I agree with John Carnochan, the Unit's Director, that the job of turning this issue around cannot be achieved overnight and will probably take a generation to change hearts and minds but we can't afford to lose a generation to knife violence.
"It's vital that all sides of the political spectrum come together to work on this problem.
"This approach would help take this above narrow party politics bringing together all parties with people who know what works, to examine international examples, and to build a consensus across Scotland on how we can challenge the culture of violence and agree on further steps we can take in relation to alcohol misuse.
"I've met parents who have lost their children to knife violence.
"I've also met victims of knife crime.
"Legislation can make a difference but it's only one part of the solution the other is societal change and that cannot be achieved in isolation.
"I don't want this to descend into political point scoring.
"It is too important an issue and the public rightly expect politicians to come up with a solution. "
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson says that Scotland's enduring and harmful relationship with alcohol and knife violence needs a cross-party consensus for it to be tackled effectively.
The former Justice Minister who led reforms on knife crime – which are being implemented by the current Scottish government – has proposed the setting up of a commission of experts and involving all the major parties to take the party politics out of the debate and identify workable solutions.
Cathy Jamieson said:
"Yes, I want to be Labour leader, but more than that I want a safe and secure Scotland.
"I will work with anyone to deliver this.
"As Labour leader, my first act will be to write to Alex Salmond and the other party leaders to call for a non-partisan commission to look at how we are tackling booze and blade culture - bringing new ideas that build on the work that has gone before.
"This would involve all the major parties and experts from across Scotland.
"I expanded the remit of the the Violence Reduction Unit to cover the whole of Scotland and I agree with John Carnochan, the Unit's Director, that the job of turning this issue around cannot be achieved overnight and will probably take a generation to change hearts and minds but we can't afford to lose a generation to knife violence.
"It's vital that all sides of the political spectrum come together to work on this problem.
"This approach would help take this above narrow party politics bringing together all parties with people who know what works, to examine international examples, and to build a consensus across Scotland on how we can challenge the culture of violence and agree on further steps we can take in relation to alcohol misuse.
"I've met parents who have lost their children to knife violence.
"I've also met victims of knife crime.
"Legislation can make a difference but it's only one part of the solution the other is societal change and that cannot be achieved in isolation.
"I don't want this to descend into political point scoring.
"It is too important an issue and the public rightly expect politicians to come up with a solution. "
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Jamieson : It's time for Salmond to co-operate on fuel
2 August 2008
Labour leadership contender, Cathy Jamieson has called on Alex Salmond to put aside the 'megaphone diplomacy' and start working with Westminster for the common good on fuel prices.
Cathy said:
"I said earlier this week that enough is enough and action needed to be taken on fuel prices including a possible windfall tax on energy companies making huge profits whilst putting up prices.
"The media are reporting that a windfall tax is a distinct possibility and my call is being seriously considered by UK ministers but it's time that the SNP played their part in supporting under pressure Scots.
"Fuel is one area where Westminster and Holyrood can work together to make a difference.
"A windfall tax from the UK Government could help to cut fuel bills for those who are struggling.
"But the Scottish Government could pay for better and more home insulation that would also cut bills for those most in need.
"I also want Alex Salmond to end the means testing introduced by the SNP for elderly people applying for central heating systems.
"Co-operation is the way forward for Scotland not conflict for conflict's sake.
"It's time to support people who are feeling the fuel price rises and at the same time conserve energy and promote a more sustainable Scotland.
"Salmond's megaphone diplomacy will not make any Scottish home warmer or greener."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender, Cathy Jamieson has called on Alex Salmond to put aside the 'megaphone diplomacy' and start working with Westminster for the common good on fuel prices.
Cathy said:
"I said earlier this week that enough is enough and action needed to be taken on fuel prices including a possible windfall tax on energy companies making huge profits whilst putting up prices.
"The media are reporting that a windfall tax is a distinct possibility and my call is being seriously considered by UK ministers but it's time that the SNP played their part in supporting under pressure Scots.
"Fuel is one area where Westminster and Holyrood can work together to make a difference.
"A windfall tax from the UK Government could help to cut fuel bills for those who are struggling.
"But the Scottish Government could pay for better and more home insulation that would also cut bills for those most in need.
"I also want Alex Salmond to end the means testing introduced by the SNP for elderly people applying for central heating systems.
"Co-operation is the way forward for Scotland not conflict for conflict's sake.
"It's time to support people who are feeling the fuel price rises and at the same time conserve energy and promote a more sustainable Scotland.
"Salmond's megaphone diplomacy will not make any Scottish home warmer or greener."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Jamieson : Poverty should not be a barrier to university
1 August 2008
Labour leadership candidate Cathy Jamieson today called for a 'substantial expansion' in student bursaries targeted at talented young people.
Since the SNP have taken office, a student's household income has to be under £23,660 to receive full government support, which Ms Jamieson says is stopping young people from poorer families from fulfilling their potential.
Speaking from Strathclyde University today where she met with a group of school students from less affluent areas about the value of University education, Ms Jamieson said:
"I believe that your background should not have to determine your future. I'd like to see a substantial expansion in student bursaries.
"The SNP's abolition of the graduate endowment will not help talented, bright young people from less affluent backgrounds get into University in the first place.
"My view is - if you're good enough, then you should be able to study at the best level for you.
"University is not for everybody, and I am delighted that John Park is pushing his Apprenticeships Bill through in the Scottish Parliament.
"But for those who want to go into higher education, poverty should not be a barrier to university success.
"We are now seeing the impact of cuts to teaching budgets and cuts in staff at universities I
"It's time for the SNP to truly value our Universities but also ensure that less well off kids get the chance they deserve.
"I hope that others in the Labour movement will support my call to ensure that Scotland starts to widen the opportunities for each and every one of our talented youngsters who want a University education."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership candidate Cathy Jamieson today called for a 'substantial expansion' in student bursaries targeted at talented young people.
Since the SNP have taken office, a student's household income has to be under £23,660 to receive full government support, which Ms Jamieson says is stopping young people from poorer families from fulfilling their potential.
Speaking from Strathclyde University today where she met with a group of school students from less affluent areas about the value of University education, Ms Jamieson said:
"I believe that your background should not have to determine your future. I'd like to see a substantial expansion in student bursaries.
"The SNP's abolition of the graduate endowment will not help talented, bright young people from less affluent backgrounds get into University in the first place.
"My view is - if you're good enough, then you should be able to study at the best level for you.
"University is not for everybody, and I am delighted that John Park is pushing his Apprenticeships Bill through in the Scottish Parliament.
"But for those who want to go into higher education, poverty should not be a barrier to university success.
"We are now seeing the impact of cuts to teaching budgets and cuts in staff at universities I
"It's time for the SNP to truly value our Universities but also ensure that less well off kids get the chance they deserve.
"I hope that others in the Labour movement will support my call to ensure that Scotland starts to widen the opportunities for each and every one of our talented youngsters who want a University education."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Jamieson calls for action on fuel costs
31 July 2008
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today called for 'tough action' against energy companies that have increased consumer costs whilst posting massive profits.
Ms Jamieson said:
"Enough is enough.
"For companies to have six-month operating profits of £1bn whilst families are facing a 35 per cent price hike is not acceptable.
"An increase on this scale will have an impact on everyone, but particularly pensioners and families on lower incomes, who already have tight household budgets.
"The energy companies need to be given a choice. Either they stop these price rises now or they should expect that tough action will be taken against them.
"The Chancellor of the Exchequer should make it clear that unless we see these companies show some decency then he should be prepared to introduce a windfall tax and then use that money to reduce people's energy bills.
"And the Scottish Government needs to act instead of carping from the sidelines.
"I want them to back Sarah Boyack's Microregeneration Bill immediately and I want the Scottish Government to invest more in insulation programmes for poorer households.
"We cannot afford for this issue to drift and I hope others in the Labour movement will support my calls for action."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson today called for 'tough action' against energy companies that have increased consumer costs whilst posting massive profits.
Ms Jamieson said:
"Enough is enough.
"For companies to have six-month operating profits of £1bn whilst families are facing a 35 per cent price hike is not acceptable.
"An increase on this scale will have an impact on everyone, but particularly pensioners and families on lower incomes, who already have tight household budgets.
"The energy companies need to be given a choice. Either they stop these price rises now or they should expect that tough action will be taken against them.
"The Chancellor of the Exchequer should make it clear that unless we see these companies show some decency then he should be prepared to introduce a windfall tax and then use that money to reduce people's energy bills.
"And the Scottish Government needs to act instead of carping from the sidelines.
"I want them to back Sarah Boyack's Microregeneration Bill immediately and I want the Scottish Government to invest more in insulation programmes for poorer households.
"We cannot afford for this issue to drift and I hope others in the Labour movement will support my calls for action."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Railways – Jamieson Calls for Not for Profit Franchise
30 July 2008
Cathy Jamieson today pledged support for a fundamental review of Scotland’s railways. She said that a not for profit Network Rail was not enough.
"I believe in putting passengers before profit. I back the Co-operative Party’s call for the mutualisation of Network Rail on a not for profit basis.
"But we need to go further.
"The way the SNP Government extended FirstScotrail’s franchise is a disgrace.
"There was no consultation and they excluded passengers, trade unions and other key stakeholders from their deliberations.
"I want a Parliamentary enquiry into the franchise.
"We have seen no evidence that it delivers value for money.
"And when the current contract expires I want a not for profit franchise.
"Those who depend on railways want a more effective and efficient system.
"I want safety as the top priority.
"And I want the money generated to be ploughed back into improving standards and services.
"A not for profit franchise could do this with passengers coming first."
Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF’s District organiser for Scotland, said,
"We welcome the statement from Cathy Jamieson and ASLEF endorses Cathy’s call for a not for profit franchise in Scotland.
"ASLEF has always put passengers first and will continue to do so."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
Cathy Jamieson today pledged support for a fundamental review of Scotland’s railways. She said that a not for profit Network Rail was not enough.
"I believe in putting passengers before profit. I back the Co-operative Party’s call for the mutualisation of Network Rail on a not for profit basis.
"But we need to go further.
"The way the SNP Government extended FirstScotrail’s franchise is a disgrace.
"There was no consultation and they excluded passengers, trade unions and other key stakeholders from their deliberations.
"I want a Parliamentary enquiry into the franchise.
"We have seen no evidence that it delivers value for money.
"And when the current contract expires I want a not for profit franchise.
"Those who depend on railways want a more effective and efficient system.
"I want safety as the top priority.
"And I want the money generated to be ploughed back into improving standards and services.
"A not for profit franchise could do this with passengers coming first."
Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF’s District organiser for Scotland, said,
"We welcome the statement from Cathy Jamieson and ASLEF endorses Cathy’s call for a not for profit franchise in Scotland.
"ASLEF has always put passengers first and will continue to do so."
Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.
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