This year marks 25 years since Scotland’s Parliament was reconvened.
It’s had a transformational impact on the lives of the people of Scotland.
While Labour, Coalition and Tory UK Governments have overseen austerity, declining living standards and a cost-of-living crisis, devolution has helped us to protect Scotland from the worst of Westminster decision-making.
Key policies like free prescriptions and university tuition, the Scottish Child Payment have significantly improved lives.
Scotland led the way by being the first country in the UK to introduce a ban on smoking - a campaign I initiated in the very first (1999-2003) session - and our NHS is the best performing in the UK.
We have seen significant infrastructure achievements like the Queensferry Crossing and the ScotRail finally being taken into public hands. The Parliament legislated for equal marriage and has introduced free period products across Scotland.
The Scottish Parliament has laid a strong foundation, but there is much more to be done. The next steps should focus on building on these successes, ensuring that every Scot can enjoy a high quality of life.
The past 25 years have shown that devolution works. The Scottish Parliament has shown what can be achieved when a nation takes control of its destiny - even modestly, with the limited powers we have.
Here’s to the next 25 years of a fairer, better, more prosperous Scotland.
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