Results tagged “HUmza YOusaf” from Glasgow Politics

LAST week marked two years since my election to represent the people of Glasgow in the Scottish Parliament.

It is incredible how quickly time passes - it seems like yesterday that I was at the count, celebrating with my re-elected SNP colleagues and digesting the news that we had an overall majority in the Scottish Parliament.

At the same time, it also seems that I have been an MSP for longer than two years, as so much has happened since May 5, 2011.

However, every day I remember how honoured and lucky I am to be in this position - it is never something I take for granted.

DURING the parliamentary recess, I like to make the most of the extra time in Glasgow to visit projects and groups in my constituency to keep up with the work they are doing.

Last week, I visited Greater Easterhouse Alcohol Awareness Project (GEAPP) and spoke to a women's group who have been working in the east end of Glasgow since 1991.

Many parts of Glasgow, including the east end have been blighted by substance abuse for years.

GEAPP provide a vital service for men and women in the area whose lives have been touched by substance abuse in different ways.

IT'S just under a month until Westminster's draconian welfare reforms will be implemented and Glaswegians should be aware of the steps the Scottish Government are taking to mitigate the effects of the changes.

Earlier this month, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that local authorities across Scotland will receive £33 million from the Scottish Welfare Fund to help people in times of need.

Glasgow will receive £5,756,000 for community care grants and £1,964,000 for crisis grants.

The community care grant allows individuals to set up or stay in their own homes while the crisis grant provides a safety net for people faced with an emergency.

Humza at the Hub in Wellhouse

ONE of the most important pieces of legislation that MSPs in the Scottish Parliament pass each year is the budget.

Each year, the SNP Government pledge to pass a budget in the best interests of the Scottish economy, and this year is no exception.

Although we face unprecedented cuts from Westminster, we are determined to protect the people of Scotland using the powers we currently possess.

AT this festive time of year, we are 
constantly reminded of the rich 
diversity of Scotland.

For example, this weekend I, as a Muslim minister, represented the Scottish Government and took part in the 
celebration of Hanukkah where the 
Menorah was lit to celebrate the Jewish 
festival of lights.

I enjoyed traditional fried delights and chatted to people about their plans for 
celebrating Hanukkah in a great example 
of the multiculturalism and diversity of 
our country.