Speaking in Parliament during a debate on the closures, the Labour MSP argued that access to sporting venues needs to be considered before deciding to shut the station in his constituency, Glasgow Provan.

Mr Martin said:

“We need to make sure that Glasgow puts on the best show possible when we host the Commonwealth Games. We are building some stunning new venues, yet people will find it harder to access them if The Scottish Government shut Duke Street Station.

“The location of the station is ideal for the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome and Celtic Park, we should be talking about improving the station, not closing it down.

“To help Scotland achieve Gold at these Games, we need to let supporters play their part and cheer on team Scotland. We have to make sure they can access these venues.”

After the release of these figures, the Labour MSP said:

“We are wasting the talents of our young people. The SNP are simply passing on these cuts instead of creating much needed jobs.

“The SNP were happy to take the credit in the good times but now they have to take the responsibility and use the considerable powers of The Scottish Parliament to help our young people.”

Paul Martin has called on The Scottish Government and The UK Government to work together and adopt Labour’s Plan for Jobs. This plan includes taxing banker’s bonuses, cutting VAT to 5% on home improvements, bringing forward long term capital projects and helping small firms with a one year NI holiday.

Mr Martin continued:

“These plans help make sure that confidence could return to market, making the richest pay and help create jobs and opportunities so that nobody is left on the scrapheap.

“Both Governments must work together for the interests of our future.”

The MSP for Glasgow Provan said:

“Frankly this is a crazy idea from the Scottish Government. We should be encouraging the use of public transport not making it harder for people to access it.

“It is a vital stop in the East End for commuters, shoppers and visitors. The station is unstaffed and has minimal overheads so the money saved would be tiny compared to the money lost by not getting passengers.

“Last year, over 74,000 journeys were made from Duke Street, that is 5 times as many people who were using the station a decade ago. The Scottish Government are wrong to think they can shut the station and I will be campaigning to make sure that my constituents have their concerns heard.”

The consultation period  about the closure runs until 20th February and you can have your say by contacting Rail2014@transportscotland.gsi.gov.uk.

The announcement that the Springburn exchange will be included in the pilot scheme comes after months of pressure and a successful public meeting organised by Mr Martin last month.

Speaking after the announcement, the Labour MSP said:

"I am delighted that BT listened to and acted on the concerns of residents. It is unbelievable that many so many people have not been getting the speeds that they pay for.

"When the roll out happens next year, it will increase peoples abilities to work from home, as well as access properly the infrastructure that we would expect in a modern city like Glasgow."

Gavin Buchan from BT attended the public meeting where residents raised their concerns about the slow broadband speeds. In his email to Mr Martin that confirmed Springburn would be included in the pilot he said:

"..it is now in our 2012 rollout plan and dates will follow.

"This will have a big impact for the speeds of Endusers Broadband in the Robroyston area."

The Tory led Coalition are making changes that will mean millions of people will pay more, work longer and receive less when they retire.

Strikers will be joined by Scottish Labour MSPs throughout the country as they show their support for better pensions for both public and private sector workers.

Speaking ahead of the day of action, Labour MSP Paul Martin said:

"Almost all public sector workers are modestly paid. Their pay has been frozen and prices are rising faster than ever.

"These changes are unfair and an attack on the valuable work that public servants do. A race to the bottom for public and private sector workers is unacceptable. We should be improving all pensions so that people have dignity in retirement."

The position of the Scottish Government is unclear after the SNP ordered their MSPs to cross picket lines and break the strike, as well as supporting the Coalition's proposals in their submission to the UK Government earlier this year.

Mr Martin continued:

"The Scottish Government have done nothing to stand up for workers rights.

"I will be standing with workers on picket lines tomorrow and I will be asking The Scottish Parliament to deduct a day's salary to show solidarity in the fight for pensions justice for all."

The allegation was made by Paul Martin Scottish Labour MSP for Glasgow Provan during a debate about the proposed move yesterday (Thursday).

Mr Martin quoted from a letter written by the SNP’s John Mason MSP for Glasgow Shettleston in which he appeared to take for granted the fact that Lightburn was to close.

Mr Mason was writing to the social work department in support of carers from the Accord Centre who are looking for new premises and suggested Lightburn as a possible solution.

Mr Martin said: “John Mason can hardly claim he is supporting the campaign to prevent Lightburn closing when he is suggesting it should be used for another purpose.

“He has signally failed to back the Lightburn campaign because he doesn’t want to fall out with Nicola Sturgeon the SNP’s Cabinet Secretary for Health.”

Around 50 campaigners travelled through from Glasgow to attend the members’ debate called by Mr Martin. The debate is the latest action organised by the Save Lightburn campaign. Earlier this month a protest march and rally was held attended by over 200 people.

Lightburn Hospital is the last hospital in the east end of the city and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde now want to close it and transfer its services between Glasgow Royal Infirmary and Stobhill Hospital.

The Glasgow East Parkinson’s Group who used the hospital as a meeting place were recently told they could no longer use the premises. The group, led by Gerry McCann had repeatedly been refused a meeting with Nicola Sturgeon to discuss the closure plan.

Nearly 200 people braved the weather to march from the hospital, through Springboig and into Budhill community, where a rally was held. Speakers at the rally included health campaigner Gerry McCann, local MP Margaret Curran, and local MSP Paul Martin.

Speaking after the rally, the Labour MSP Paul Martin said:

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to come here today and show their support for our hospital.

“This march will send a message to the Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon she must decide to keep health services local, and keep this hospital open.”

“This part of Glasgow has some of the worst health statistics in Scotland, it makes no sense for the SNP to try and close it.”

Gerry McCann runs a Parkinsons group who use to use the hospital as a meeting place. They were kicked out by NHS bosses earlier this month. He said:

“It is great to see how many people care for this facility. We need as much support so that we can prove to Nicola Sturgeon that we value our hospital and we need it.”

Cllr Matheson was joined by other East End Councillors Elaine McDougall, Frank Docherty, Ruth Simpson and Baillie Gerry Leonard.

Cllr McDougall said:

“The amount of concern surrounding this closure is incredible. I am delighted that so many fellow East End Councillors are here today to back the campaign.

“We cannot afford to lose another of our health resources and there will be no acute beds in the East. We must put pressure on The Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon to reverse this decision.

The pledge was also signed by the Labour MSP Paul Martin. The hospital lies within Paul’s Glasgow Provan constituency.

Paul said:

“Gathering this support will mean that the decision makers in Edinburgh need to sit up and notice what is happening.

“This cut to our health service will mean real problems for local people. I am here fighting with the campaign to make sure that the East End gets its fair. Nicola Sturgeon has said that the SNP will not cut health services, it is time she made good on her promise.”

As part of the ceremony and celebrations of the opening of Parliament, MSPs were asked to nominate someone who they thought had made a real difference in their community.

Gerry McCann was nominated as a ‘Local Hero’ by Glasgow Provan MSP Paul Martin after Paul had worked with him on the campaign to save Lightburn Hospital in the East End of the city.

Speaking outside of Parliament, Gerry said:

“I want to thank Paul for nominating me; I have really enjoyed the whole experience.

“When I started my group for Parkinsons sufferers many years ago I only did so to help people in my community. To have this recognition is a great honour and a tribute to all those who volunteer and give up their time for other people.”

The Labour MSP Paul Martin, pictured here with Gerry McCann, said:

“To campaign alongside someone like Gerry is a privilege for me. I know how much he cares for our area.

“His selfless attitude made him a great choice for Glasgow Provan’s ‘Local Hero’ and I want to acknowledge him and all the campaigners who are fighting to save Lightburn Hospital.”

“The closure of another facility in the East End cannot be allowed to happen. The move is opposed by patients, visitors and the majority of staff. I think it is unreasonable to have patients and visitors travel long distances to get treatment.”

“I just hope that the NHS managers listen to what our local community is saying. We need to keep our health services local.”

Margaret Curran MP also attended the public meeting. She said:

“The strength of feeling about this issue is clear. If the health board are serious about having a proper dialogue then they have to listen to the concerns that local people feel about these plans.”

The Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Shettleston MSP John Mason were also invited, however both declined due to prior diary engagements.

Gerry McCann, who originally called the meeting, said:

“I am bitterly disappointed that The Health Secretary didn’t turn up, I have a lot of questions that need answers. She is the only one who has the power to reverse the management’s decision.

“Maybe if she was here at the meeting she would understand that people in the East End will not take this decision lying down.”

One of the main issues raised at the meeting was the lack of a proper consultation with affected residents, who were only made aware of the plans were when the developers moved in to start building. East Dumbartonshire planners put this down to issues with local government boundaries with Glasgow and East Dumbartonshire Councils.

Councillor Gerry Leonard and MSP Paul Martin attended the meeting, both of whom have been leading the calls for a rethink on the development.

Paul Martin MSP said:

“I was shocked that residents were denied their right to have their voices heard.

“This is the wrong design of development for this site and no consideration has been given to what local people are thinking. I urge Link to halt the building of the project until a full and proper consultation has been carried out.”

Councillor Gerry Leonard shared similar sentiments. He said:

“Meetings like this really show what a strong community we have in Robroyston. I want to make sure that we preserve that and it is not destroyed by developers who haven’t even asked what the local residents think.

“I want to pay tribute to all the residents who turned up tonight, as well as Robroyston Community Council for organising such a successful meeting. We need Link to stop and think.”

 
Over 30 guests attended including Paul Martin MSP, William Bain MP, Bailie Gerry Leonard and guests from local businesses. Paul Martin was so impressed with the event that he submitted a Parliamentary Motion congratulating the pupils.
Mr Martin said:

“I was really impressed by how well the kids have organised and run this meeting. It shows that we have confident youngsters who are able use initiative and show their entrepreneurial spirit.

“From what I saw, I know that these kids will be very successful in the future. They are a credit to their school and their teachers.”

P7 Teacher Stephenie Tait said:

“I would like to thank all that attended to make the event so successful. I hope the skills and confidence that the class have gained will really make a difference when they enter the world of work when they are older.

“The pupils have worked really hard to make the ‘Business Breakfast’ a success and it is great that they are getting recognition in The Scottish Parliament.”

ENDS

Notes for editors: The full text of the motion is as follows;

“That this Parliament congratulates the Primary 7 pupils at St Philomena’s Primary School in Provanmill for successfully hosting ‘Business Breakfast’; notes the innovative way that the event engaged local businesses and taught useful skills to the participating pupils; further congratulates the school that with creative events like this the entrepreneurial spirit amongst local youngsters, skills learnt early on will become useful for their future business pursuits.”

Paul Martin attended a special event in the Scottish Parliament in support of Usdaw’s Freedom from Fear campaign.  Usdaw, the shopworkers’ union is also backing the Protection of Workers (Scotland) Bill which is being sponsored by Hugh Henry MSP. The bill asks for the protection currently experienced by emergency workers and some health workers to be extended to all public facing workers.

Paul said:

“I am horrified that there has been an increase in violence and abuse against Scottish shopworkers in recent years. Shopworkers are there to provide a service and it’s important that they can go about their work without fear of being verbally abused or assaulted.

“That’s why I’m supporting Usdaw’s campaign to raise awareness of this issue and MSP Hugh Henry’s bill to give shopworkers greater protection from abusive customers.”

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, added:

“We’re delighted that Paul Martin MSP is joining our campaign to stand up for shopworkers and are also supporting Hugh Henry’s Bill.

“Shopworkers are all too often on the receiving end of violence and abuse.  They work in a pressurised environment and around Christmas time this is amplified, with increased sales and more stressed out customers.

"Customers can get very frustrated over long queues, if the item they want is out of stock or if they are asked for ID.  They often take out their frustrations on the shopworker. 

“We would ask shoppers in Glasgow to think again before being abusive to a shopworker, even if things don’t go as smoothly as you would like.  Show the shopworker some respect and keep your cool at Christmas.”

The Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Communities Committee has published its Stage 1 report into the Springburn MSP’s Property Factor’s (Scotland) Bill, and has endorsed the principles of the Bill which would require property factors to be registered, to ensure that they are fit and proper persons operating in accordance with a code of conduct and that there is an effective dispute resolution system.

Welcoming the report Paul Martin said:

“I am delighted that the committee has recognised the need for legislation to regulate property factors and agrees with the aims of my Bill.

“It is clear that the evidence presented to the committee backs up the findings of my consultation, and the findings of the OFT study into Scotland’s Property Factors – that the industry is not offering a good deal to homeowners and needs to be regulated.

“Parliament will now get the chance to debate my Bill and I hope it will agree with the recommendation of the committee and approve the general principles so that we can continue to move the issue forward to deliver effective legislation to regulate property factors and provide a better deal for homeowners.”

The Lightburn Hospital serves much of Paul’s constituency but is under threat from closure due to health budget cuts.

Paul said:

'It is important that as a community, we show the managers at the Health Board that we value our local services and we will fight to keep them here.'

The fight to keep the hospital has already attracted a lot of attention with a well attended public meeting and a petition that has gathered many hundreds of signatures already.

Paul added:

'Not everyone can afford expensive taxis or be able to wait around for buses to the Royal. I want everyone in the East End to know that I oppose the closure of this much needed facility.'

Sam Ronaldson, manager of Time Fitness and organiser of the spinning event tells us that “it went better than we could ever have hoped. The guest instructor was in a second to none with his motivation chants and words. The participants gave it their all and then gave that little bit extra too! A fantastic group of people brought together for an even better cause. After today’s electric atmosphere we will definitely make it even bigger and better for next year!....”

Local MSP Paul Martin has started the campaign to ensure that a

new Train Station is built to serve Robroyston. The new station

would be built on the present line that runs through the area,

going from Glasgow Queen Street to Cumbernauld.

Paul was joined by local Councillor Gerry Leonard and chair of

Robroyston Community Council Ian McGhee at the site of the old

train station in Robroyston.

Paul Martin MSP said: "As a local resident, I know that

Robroyston is a wonderful place to live and work, but I have

believed for a long time that the community would really

benefit by having such a great transport link in place. It

would make journeys for commuters easier, and only take 6

minutes for shoppers going into Glasgow City Centre.

"I am now looking to gather as much support from locals as

possible to present it to the transport authorities and other

relevant bodies to really make the case for this project."

Cllr Gerry Leonard added: "This new train station has the

potential to really improve peoples ability to access services,

shops and work. I will be fighting to secure this investment

alongside Paul to make sure the local community gets this

important piece of infrastructure."

An online petition has now been launched where members of the

community can sign up and show their support for the idea. You

can sign the petition by visiting

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/38656.html

The no.39 service runs from Easterhouse, through Riddrie and into the City Centre and is popular with shoppers and commuters alike. However, recent changes to the route and timetable meant that local residents were concerned about the level of service in their area.

Speaking after the meeting, Paul Martin MSP said: “I am delighted that First Bus have changed their mind and decided to reinstate this vital bus service. “The route is extremely important for accessing the City Centre as well as local health services. I know of examples of pensioners having to use expensive taxis to make hospital appointments. I knew that this was not right and that I had to fight to get this service back.”

Mr Park promised that the no. 39 would return to servicing Todd Street and the surrounding areas within a maximum of 70 days.

Mr Martin added: “I am extremely grateful to the people who took time out too come to the meeting. It was important that First Bus knew how much we valued the previous bus route and I am certain that this pressure contributed in forcing them to reinstate the no. 39.”

the Scottish Government not to back his amendment in the

Criminal Justice Bill. The amendment would place a requirement

on all Chief Constables to provide anti social behaviour

reports connected to new licence applications.

The MSP for Springburn said:

"I am upset that residents who suffer anti social behaviour

from troublesome landlords and off licences in their

communities are being let down.

"With the approach that the Scottish Government are choosing to

take, it will mean that local communities will be denied the

full facts from the Police when someone is applying for a licence.

"I remember one example in Ruchazie where representations were

made by local residents in connection with an application. They

and the licensing authority were advised by the police that

there was nothing to report, yet they learned at a later stage

that the police had made 212 calls to the premises. It is my

belief that this is incompetent and inconsistent.

"The only way in which to ensure that our police authorities

consistently provide accurate information is to ensure that

they do so in the form of antisocial behaviour reports. We

should not leave the matter to police officers' discretion.

"We have heard from the Government many times today that police

authorities know best and that communities should do as they

are told. I do not accept that philosophy. Communities are

entitled to be sure that, when applications are submitted,

there is a proper interrogation of the antisocial behaviour

that has taken place surrounding the premises."

Here, Paul (far right) is pictured with Labour Leader Iain Gray (middle), Harry Frew (far left) from UCATT and two apprentices.

After the visit, Alan Carroll said:
"It's great that the pupils can hear about Paul's experience as an MSP. This really helps with their studies and is far more interesting than listening to me drone on.

"The questions Paul faced were pretty tough, there may be one or two politicians of the future in my class!"
The question and answer session lasted for around 45 minutes, with questions ranging from the Referendum Bill to Justice issues.

Speaking after the visit, Paul said:
"I was delighted to be able to accept the invitation to come speak to the pupils. I feel that it is extremely important for young people to take an interest in politics and decision making. The pupils enthusiasm for world events and local issues could be seen in their line of questioning.  I was impressed by their confidence, knowledge and debating ability.

"I hope they continue to keep their passion for politics and vote throughout their life time. On the evidence I witnessed, they will do very well in their exams in May."

“This is a terrible tragedy and the thoughts of myself and the community are with the families of those who died in this tragic event. I have been in contact with the police to ensure that the necessary resources will be made available to fully investigate all the circumstances surrounding these deaths.”

He was commenting after Thursday's Holyrood debate. Labour's Patricia Ferguson has tabled a members’ bill that would give homeowners more rights and require all factors in Scotland to be registered and accredited by an official body.

Paul Martin is supprting the legislation because of the number of complaints he has received from constituents. The proposals are supported by a range of organisations including the Property Managers Association and Govan Law Centre.

Paul said:

“For too long factors have been a law unto themselves. There are many good factors but there are others who seem to see the job as a licence to print money and simply do not communicate with the people they are supposed to work for.

“I decided to support this legislation after receiving complaints from constituents about a whole range of issues including poor quality repairs, unnecessary work, serious overcharging and substandard service.

“These are issues that affect people in throughout Glasgow Springburn and I hope that MSPs from across the Chamber will put aside their differences and support Labour’s proposals to give homeowners more rights.

"The Scottish Government is currently proposing a voluntary scheme but we believe they need to go further and that legislation is required."

Paul has arranged a public meeting in Dennistoun, where all residents are invited to give their veiws to a panel of housing law experts. If you would like more details of this event, then please do not hesitate in getting in touch with the office on 0141 564 1364.

After launching the campaign, Paul said "The difficulty comes down to the distance between the telephone exchange and the homes and business in my constituency.

"I think the infrastructure requires proper investment since a lot of people who work at home need a decent connection.

"It also has an impact on other services, such as BT vision, which is delivered through broadband."

If you have any experience of problems with the speed of your broadband connection and wish to sign the petition then please click here to show your support

The Workers (Aggravated Offences) Bill lodged by Labour MSP Hugh Henry had already gathered significant support from Trade Unions, transport bodies, local councils and individual workers and now has the backing from MSPs.
The Bill will give workers who have face to face contact with the public through their duties greater protection. This would mean people committing offences under the new Bill could be jailed up to 12 months and fined up to £10,000.

MSP Paul Martin for Springburn said:
 

“I fully support the Bill brought forward by my colleague Hugh Henry MSP and I am delighted that it can now move forward. I supported this Bill because all workers in Springburn who face the public as part of their job should be able to go about their work without fear of violence or intimidation. We have to remember that it’s not just the victim of abuse that suffers, a whole community can lose out and that’s not right. For example if a local bus service in Springburn is withdrawn after an assault on a worker everyone loses out."

Paul Martin said:

"This scheme is a no-brainer. It will not only help people reduce their fuel bills and cut carbon emissions, but it will also provide a boost to local plumbers who’ll get more work by installing the boilers.
“It is outrageous that as we experience one of the coldest winters on record that the Scottish Government continues to turn its back on thousands of householders in Scotland who would be eligible for this grant.
"I hope people in Glasgow Springburn will sign this petition to urge Ministers see sense and commit to a boiler scrappage scheme in Scotland now.”

Sarah Boyack, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment, said:

"There is no reasonable justification for failing to press ahead with the scheme, especially when the money is there to pay for it. This proves that when it comes to climate change, the Scottish Government is all talk and no action. I know from talking to colleagues that we are all getting asked by constituents for information about the scheme and there's huge disappointment when we tell them there are currently no plans for a Scottish scheme.”

Chas Booth from the Association for the Conservation of Energy added:
"It's vital that Scots don't miss out on the cash and energy savings which England will enjoy through the very welcome boiler scrappage scheme. The Scottish Government must move quickly to introduce a similar cash-back scheme for efficient boilers and micro-renewables here. Since Scottish Ministers will receive extra cash from the treasury because of the English boiler scrappage scheme, they have no excuse for not investing it in energy saving. Scotland cannot be allowed to fall behind when it comes to saving cash and energy."
End
Notes for editors
Link to Sarah Boyack's online petition: www.scottishlabour.org.uk/cold

"I am pleased to give my support to Charlie Gordon's Members Bill which I know would improve services if it were to approved by Parliament.

"The provision of adequate bus services is incredibly important for my constituents who need to access services all over Springburn. I know it can incredibly difficult getting from Milton or Ruchazie to a supermarket if driving is not an option.

"That is why I am supporting Charlie in his bid to improve bus services."

Charlie Gordon now seeking cross-party support from MSPs in order to take the Bill forward.

"What is clear from the responses to my public consultation is that there is a lot of frustration by commuters over bus services in their neighbourhoods, whether they live in a city or village.

"While there are examples of good local bus services, many people spoke of either bus overkill or services thin on the ground, subject to alteration or withdrawal at a few weeks' notice.

"Scotland's bus travellers should get access to services which meet their needs whether they are commuting to work or going on a night out.

"If we want more people to leave the car at home, then it is time for bus operators and politicians to catch up with the Scottish public's aspirations for better bus services in the 21st century."

The Bill was signed by 34 Labour MSPs, but needed support from at least one MSP from another major party to go forward.  The proposals are backed by health unions and would apply across the whole of the Scottish NHS estate, including hospitals such as Ninewells and Glasgow & Edinburgh Royal Infirmaries, which continue to levy charges.

Glasgow Springburn MSP Paul Martin said: "I am disappointed and frustrated that my bill will not become law. This was an opportunity to introduce a fairer system and scrap hospital parking charges once and for all from every NHS site in Scotland. 

"The sad truth other parties have been all talk and no action on this issue. They have talked a good game about scrapping charges but failed to step up to the plate when it really mattered.

"My proposals would have made it illegal for a health board to levy parking charges on patients, visitors or staff - or anyone who has to visit a site for whatever reason. I can assure people that I will continue to campaign for these charges to be scrapped.

"If commercial sites like Braehead and the Fort can provide free parking, it is a sad reflection that people who are being cared for in hospital and their families have to pay to park."

The Bill has been signed by 34 Labour MSPs, but has so far failed to attract cross party support. Mr Martin needs support from at least one MSP from one of the other major parties to take it forward. The deadline is October 2nd.

The proposals are backed by health unions and would apply across the whole of the Scottish NHS estate, including hospitals such as Ninewells and Glasgow & Edinburgh Royal Infirmaries, which continue to levy charges.

Glasgow Springburn MSP Paul Martin said:

"I am asking MSPs from other parties to put party politics to one side and support my Bill, which will make it illegal for a health board to levy parking charges on patients, visitors or staff – or anyone who has to visit a site for whatever reason.

"If commercial sites like Braehead and the Fort can provide free parking, it is a sad reflection that people who are being cared for in hospital and their families have to pay to park.

"It is an extra hassle that patients and their families do not need at what is already a stressful enough time. I need support from an MSP in at least one other party to take this Bill forward and urge them to examine their consciences."

UNISON Regional Organiser Matt McLaughlin said:

"We need a comprehensive solution to car parking across the NHS in Scotland. UNISON is backing this bill to ensure that the needs of patients, visitors and staff are met, in Glasgow and across Scotland."

Springburn MSP Paul Martin has called today for a champion for disabled workers on a visit to Blindcraft in Glasgow .

Paul Martin MSP, said: "The Scottish government need to appoint a dedicated champion for disabled workers.

"We must have employment opportunities for everyone in . That means employment and training opportunities for those with special needs and support for them in the workplace .

"The Scottish government’s champion should work with and ensure that officials involved in public procurement would follow Article 19 of European Union directive to encourage contracts to be awarded to sheltered workshops.

"This will help to protect the future of this vital aspect of employment opportunity and training in .

"Supported factories and businesses for people with disabilities such as Blindcraft have a valuable role in helping people with disabilities get into the labour market."

The photo shows Paul on a visit RSBi with Catherine Stihler MEP and Baillie Jim Todd.

The Springburn MSP has been campaigning with the workers and their unions to fight the job losses, launching a petition to save the Port Dundas jobs and hosting a summit to discuss alternative proposals.

Commenting on the decision Paul Martin said:

"I am very disappointed that Diageo has decided to push ahead with its decision to close its plants at Port Dundas and Kilmarnock. This is a deliberate choice by a profitable company that will damage the communities on which its success has been built.

"It is vitally important that Diageo recognises it still has a responsibility to the future of its workforce and continues to support them through what will be a very difficult period. I will continue to work with the trade unions at Port Dundas to see if even at this late hour we can find a way of saving the plant."

Labour MSP for Glasgow Springburn, Paul Martin  said "Glasgow is furious that Diageo are taking 150 jobs out of our city, closing a distillery that has been here for 200 years. "There is simply no case for closure. We need to save these jobs."Diageo need to understand that the reason people buy Scottish whisky is because of the heritage and history of the product. Take that away and we are left with little. I call on as many pepople as possible to sign the petition being lead by the local MSP for the distillery Patricia Ferguson MSP www.saveportdundas.org.uk.

Glasgow Royal Infirmary is one of three Scottish hospitals where the car parks were built with PFI money and the  Bill, if successful, would see them made free as well, despite claims by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon that it would be too costly to buy out the contracts from the private firms which own and manage the car parks.

Mr Martin said: "My Bill will make it illegal for a health board to levy parking charges on anyone who has to visit a hospital site for whatever reason."If commercial sites like Braehead and the Fort can provide free parking, it is a sad reflection that people who are being cared for in hospital and their families have to pay to park. "It is an extra hassle patients and their families do not need."

Many staff have said the new system at the Southern General discriminates against staff, with complaints that only 60 spaces are allocated for 3000 staff. The four hour rule also means that ward staff, who mainly work 12-hour shifts, are left at a disadvantage. At Glasgow Royal Infirmary staff are charged as much as £60 a month for private parking permits, others pay a daily charge.

Mr Martin began consulting on the proposals earlier this year and today formally launched the Bill. He said a system where staff and patients can park but commuters are prevented from abusing the free parking would need to be implemented. The Bill now needs 18  MSPs to support it to be taken forward.

Under the plans constituted community groups would be able to request that an Anti-Social Behaviour Order is used by applying to their local council or police force. The council or force would then either go forward with that request or would have to meet with the organisation and explain their reason for refusal and then set out an alternative approach. The community group could appeal a decision if they disagreed.  Paul Martin MSP said: "Local people know best when it comes to anti-social behaviour. They live with its consequences and know that doing nothing is never the right option. Through this process we hope that local people will know that their views count and they have a formal process to get action."As a last resort, anti-social behaviour orders are not just the right option but sometimes the only valid option to deal with anti-social behaviour and to provide safer communities.

Construction will take around nine months to complete. Once complete it will take the number of new homes built by the Association in North Glasgow to more than 900 since it built its first property back in 1985.

The Association is working in partnership with construction firm CCG on the new homes. CCG recently delivered the Association’s Elmvale Phase One development 14 weeks ahead of schedule.

Every flat in the four-storey development will be a three apartment (two bedroom). Eight of these will suitable for people with particular needs.

Chief Executive of North Glasgow Housing Association, Robert Tamburrini, is looking forward to the delivery of another 32 new homes in the area.

He said: “In recent years our new build homes programme has transformed living conditions and created new opportunities for hundreds of local families across the north of the city.

“These new homes in Fernbank Street are the latest piece of the jigsaw and will make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the continued long-term regeneration of the communities we serve.

“Developments such as this are making a real difference to people’s lives. We are looking forward to the new homes being finished in the autumn and another 32 families being given the keys to their new homes.”

“All tenants deserve access to good quality housing and we will continue to look for development opportunities in our area.”

Springburn MSP Paul Martin has also welcomed the new development. He said: “I am delighted that North Glasgow Housing Association has brought forward plans for more new high quality housing in the Springburn area.

“I have represented Fernbank since I was elected as an MSP. I know how important quality housing is to local people and I am confident that these new homes will be warmly welcomed by the community.”

Paul Martin MSP added "I am delighted that we have been able to attract this kind of invetsment into the North Area of Glasgow, the new facility will provide opportunities for students to reach the highest level of educational attainment, having worked closely with Ronnie and his team over the last 6  years I have been most impressed with their hard work and commitment I know this faclity will be a continued sucess for many years".

The Glasgow Springburn MSP has put forward proposals for a Member's Bill, which would make it illegal for health boards to charge people using their car Parking fees at most Scottish hospitals were scrapped last year, but three PFI hospitals - Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and Dundee's Ninewells Hospital, still charge. In Glasgow, people can only park at the city's other hospitals for free for up to four hours.

Mr Martin was joined by around 300 union members to campaign against the £40 fines being imposed on hospital staff should they exceed the limit. There were representatives from a range of unions at the site, including Unite, Unison, GMB and the RCN union.

Mr Martin said: "I am pleased to support health workers in this campaign. There is real support among the staff to scrap this four-hour maximum period.

"It defies common sense that NHS staff doing a vitally important job should be fined £40 for leaving their car in a hospital car park.

"Nurses working night shift should not be forced to park in back streets for fear of being fined if they exceed the four-hour time limit in a hospital car park."

The NHS Parking (Scotland) Bill aims to ban health boards from charging patients, visitors and staff for parking on NHS sites. If passed it would place a legal requirement on health boards to ensure there are "reasonable free and well-managed car parking facilities for all those who need to access NHS sites".

NHS boards would also be banned from putting a limit on the time people parking their vehicles legitimately can stay there for.

Clubs only pay for police working inside grounds - at the rate of £100 per officer.  The cost of controlling fans outside - where 80 per cent of trouble occurs - is met by taxpayers.

Police forces spend £7million a year on football games, with a typical Old Firm match costing £50,000 to police.

Paul said: "It is unbelievable that resources are being stretched by policing matches between clubs who pay their stars £30,000 a week.  It is up to the Scottish Government to ensure clubs are regulated like any other commercial venture."

Bothwell-based Northwind Leisure Soccer is behind the country's second Soccerworld, which will be built in Ruchazie. The company says it will allow schools and disadvantaged groups to use the sports facility free of charge.Youth football teams in the area, including Muirton Boys Club, will also have access to the facilities.Northwind bosses said they will be recruiting staff entirely from the local area. Ian McDermot, of Northwind Leisure, said: "The aim is to provide footballers with a first-class five-a-side facility, there is a huge demand for outdoor football facilities in Glasgow but no-one is providing facilities for indoor use.

Local councillor Gerry Leonard, said: "I'm delighted this is coming to the area". Local MSP Paul Martin said "It is exremely important that local resients in the East Eind of Glasgow have every opportunity  to access local sports facilities, I am delighted that Northwind Lesuire are committed to working with the local community to ensure local people are part of the new investment".

What started as a lunch club with social activities for the elderly and disabled in 1988 has prospered into thriving centre for up to 300 members.

The project, based in Red Road, has grown to enjoy a city-wide reputation for activities, along with vital services such as bereavement counselling and welfare benefits. To mark the landmark birthday, a champagne reception was held and the project's hugely popular concert part group, the Red Road Young 'Uns, took to the stage to entertain guests.

And to round off the special day, members put on their dancing shoes for a birthday dance.

He said: "If commercial sites like Braehead and Glasgow Fort can provide free car parking, is it not a sad reflection that people are being cared for in hospital and their families have to pay to park?" "It is an extra hassle that patients and their families do not need at what is already a stressful enough time."

A recent public meeting was held in Springburn to give furious residents the chance to tell health bosses how the charging policy is hitting the community. As a result, an action group is being formed to continue the campaign. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde declined to comment on the launch of the bill at this stage.

Frustrated locals living near the hospital say drivers are constantly parking outside their homes and shops to avoid the charges.

Paul said: "We want the Health Board to understand that the public concern over this issue is continuing.  I receive lots of complaints from constituents about the number of cars parked beside their homes.  It has been a problem for some time, but since the charges started, it is just chaos.  In bringing in the unnecessary charges, the health board is simply dumping the problem on local people.  I hope the many people affected by the scheme come along to the meeting.  I want the health board to understand that this issue is not going away and the public unrest that it is cause."

Balornock resident Mary Murray submitted a petition to the Scottish Parliament's Public Petitions Committee raising concerns about the number of vehicles parking in her neighbourhood as a result of the hospital car parking charges scheme.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde confirmed that Niall McGrogan, head of community engagements and transport, and William Hunter, General Facilities Manager, will be attending the public meeting.

It takes place on Tuesday, June 17, in the Brunswick Centre in Wardhill Road, Balornock, starting at 7pm.

The £24.5million development is part of GHAs city-wide regeneration programme that will supply 2,800 homes for GHA tenants.  Up to 25 tenants who were involved in decising the design and specification of the new homes attended the recent event, organised by GHA.