Scottish Election 2021: A vote for Labour means better education and tackling racism, inequality and child poverty – Cammy Day

These last months have been a lively one in politics as we head into the Scottish Parliament elections. I’m sure you have all been bombarded with leaflets and calls as restrictions don’t allow door canvassing at this time.

If you haven’t registered yet, the deadline is April 19, you can do so here: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

As we edge closer to relaxation of some lockdown measures, please let’s keep trying our best to keep to the rules and get back to seeing our friends, families and loved ones as soon as we can.

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In the coming weeks, we will see more openings of the bars, restaurants and other retail that we have all missed, and let’s bring some cheer to the city centre as we move closer to summer.

Many of you will have seen horrific scenes in the Meadows recently with crowds of irresponsible people drinking and fighting. This minority group of hooligans can’t stop our enjoyment of our parks and green spaces.

I know the community and council will continue to work together with the police to arrest and charge those involved, and I hope this puts an end to this behaviour. My colleague Daniel Johnson MSP held an emergency summit just a few days ago calling for immediate actions.

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Meanwhile, plans are already underway from our city’s many festivals – Book, Fringe, International and Hogmanay to name a few – to look at how they can be delivered. It’s likely many of these will have to take place outwith their normal venues but every effort is being made to ensure Edinburgh’s festivals continue to be the best in the world.

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During the last few months, with less people in the city and schools having been partly closed, our capital investment work has been progressing as part of a £193 million maintenance programme to improve the condition of school buildings across the whole city.

It’s all part of our £500 million investment in the school estate for new schools including Trinity Academy in my own ward. All part of the investment Edinburgh Labour continues to prioritise for our schools and council buildings.

While pupils are getting improved school buildings, we need to ensure we offer the best and equal access to devices to ensure every pupil can work in school and at home with a good broadband/WiFi connection.

As education convener, Edinburgh Labour Cllr Ian Perry has pushed for this investment as part of our budget proposals for 2021/22. With around 39,000 tablet devices to be provided with an agreed investment of £17.9 million I hope this allows every young person the access they need to learn.

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In 23 days you will be asked to cast your vote for members of the Scottish Parliament.

In every constituency in Edinburgh, Scottish Labour candidates are working hard to persuade you of the need for change – to stop the squabbling between the SNP, to end attacks on minority communities witnessed in cities and towns across Scotland and start putting an end to inequality and rising child poverty.

With a recovery plan that unites our country, let’s make that change, make both of your votes Scottish Labour – we’re on your side.

Cammy Day is Edinburgh Council Labour group leader and councillor for the Forth ward

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