ELECTION 2021: Focus on recovery, radical policies and independence, says SNP's Karen Adam

I'M a north-east quine. I grew up with a deaf parent, and have children with ASN, so I have a strong record of advocacy, care and responsibility.

I believe that being an advocate and working to improve outcomes for all is a crucial job of an MSP.

I have served in various roles as a volunteer over the years, and now work as a local councillor. I’m the SNP spokesperson for Education and Children’s Services where I aim to protect budgets, ensure equality and scrutinise work to close the attainment gap.

My focus as a politician has been on improving the lives of residents, from addressing social inequality to promoting economic development, all within a caveat of environmental sensitivity.

Here in the north-east we have huge capacity for renewable energy. With our abundance in natural resources, we have the potential to be at the forefront. Welcoming jobs and economic growth within this sector is something I recognise is of significant importance.

Our fishing and farming industries are at the heart of Banffshire and Buchan Coast, which provides first class produce and essential local economic benefits.

These industries need support now more than ever. Direct support, and honest engagement is crucial. They need protected and promoted, to ensure a bright

future.

We’ve seen the devastation caused by the austerity agenda, a Brexit deal that failed to deliver, and now the Covid crisis. It’s time to focus on recovery, and deliver radical policy. Policies like a national care service, the young persons guarantee, the biggest NHS pay increase since devolution and an ambitious house building programme can do just that.

As a strong advocate for independence I will continue to fight for our full democracy. To have have all the levers we need to steer our country our own way.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.