‘We need to see concrete results’
I understand the concerns many in our community have regarding the recent news surrounding the new roles within our MSP’s staff.
Like many of you, I too want to see taxpayer money spent in a targeted and efficient manner.
But we must look at this situation through a uniquely Shetland lens. In any other circumstance, I would be with the critics, raising serious questions about what potentially looks like inappropriate and ineffective spending at first glance.
Here in Shetland, we differ, whether it be oil, gas, fish, wind or our new space industry – we provide an immense amount to the nation, but we rarely receive a fair return from the government.
If we can get taxpayer-funded jobs for local people, I count that as a win. By securing Holyrood funding for local salaries, that means money stays in our shops and supports Shetlanders. Shetland deserves that return on investment and it deserves those jobs.
But like with any investment, we need to see results. The MSP has outlined what she hopes to achieve through the creation of these roles, her goals are noble ones.
But allow me to be absolutely clear, this is public money, and we need to see concrete results, not party-political messaging.
The MSP has promised the roles will improve local access to politics. We, as a community, must continue to watch closely to ensure that this is what they deliver rather than a taxpayer-funded PR exercise.
I wish whoever receives those roles the best of luck.
Danny C. Parker
Delting
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