Green momentum in Edinburgh can lead way for Scotland - Lorna Slater
This weekend the Scottish Greens came together with energy, optimism and purpose at our annual party conference, a gathering that showed clearly how much positive momentum there is behind politics that puts climate, community and fairness at the heart of everything we do.
Members from across Scotland shared ideas, heard from speakers with bold plans for affordable childcare, reliable public transport and a fairer economy, and left invigorated for the election campaign ahead.
There is a real sense that what we are building is more than a political project, it is a movement for change.
Our party membership o has soared over recent months and we now have a record number of members ready to take our message to every town and city across Scotland.
This is not just a statistic, it is proof that people want politics that delivers practical improvements in their lives as well as bold action on the climate emergency.
Edinburgh has always played a vital role in leading on environmental and social progress.
As someone who has lived and worked here for more than two decades, I know how much this city cares about quality of life, clean air, thriving neighbourhoods and opportunity for all.
Electing a Scottish Green MSP for Edinburgh Central would mean bringing those priorities into Holyrood with fresh determination.
A Green MSP would champion better investment in local services, walkable streets and neighbourhood nature projects that reconnect people with green spaces close to home.
Locally we need leadership that will take seriously both the climate emergency and the everyday challenges facing families, workers and young people. Scottish Greens are proposing affordable and universal access to childcare that would ease pressure on parents and put money back in household budgets.
We also want to build on Scotland’s world leading ambition for public transport with expanded free bus access, helping cut costs for commuters and reduce congestion and pollution right here in the Capital.
People often tell me they want politics that are solutions focused rather than lists of problems. That is what the green movement offers, practical changes that make life better now, and a long term vision that protects the future of our children and grandchildren.
This year’s conference reminded us why we are fighting for that vision with heart and tenacity.
In the coming weeks I will be out across Edinburgh Central talking to residents about the issues that matter most, secure jobs, affordable homes, healthy communities and a climate safe for all. I believe that with a Green MSP in Holyrood, Edinburgh can be a leader in showing how progressive, people powered politics can deliver real results.