Only 7 days till the people of Scotland go to the polls to decide who will form the Scottish Government for the next 5 years.
I am voting Nicola Sturgeon, the SNP candidate in Glasgow Southside, for my constituency MSP and will be voting Scottish National Party (SNP) 'Alex Salmond for First Minister' for my regional vote.
Out of the 4 party leaders I believe that Alex Salmond is the best person to lead Scotland for the next 5 years. He has a good record, a good team and vision that is good for Scotland.
Nicola Sturgeon is the best person to represent Glasgow Southside in the Scottish Parliament. She has a fantastic record as the constituency MSP for the former Glasgow Govan seat and is well known for her hard work in the communities that she has represented for the past 4 years. Glasgow Southside doesn't need another invisible politician. Glasgow Southside needs a strong representative. Nicola can do just that.
This election is about who will Govern Scotland for the next 5 years. Make sure you re-elect a competent Government that works for you. Vote SNP in both the constituency and regional votes.
On May 5, Be part of better, Vote SNP
Together we can make Scotland better. http://www.snp.org/
Posted by Austin Sheridan.
Welcome to the blog of Austin Sheridan. All views expressed in this blog may not reflect the views of the Scottish Youth Parliament. Austin Sheridan's main website is www.AustinMSYP.co.nr
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
Sunday, 24 April 2011
New Glasgow MSYP-Elect Group Meets For First Time
The New MSYP-Elects met officially for the first time on Wednesday. Current MSYPs will represent their seats until the 11th of June when the new MSYP-Elects take up their new seats. Current MSYPs Austin Sheridan, Keenan Alexander, Rae Cahill and Craig Whyteside will continue to represent their current seats and will continue on as MSYPs in the new redrawn constituencies that they have been elected to represent. Current MSYPs that did not seek re-election or lost their election will stand down on the 11th of June.
I am pleased that I have been re-elected for a second term. I have done lots in the past two years as the MSYP for Glasgow Govan and I can do a lot more as the MSYP for the new seat which covers 60% of my old constituency, Glasgow Southside, over the next two years.
The Current MSYPs and the MSYP-Elects discussed the idea of a Glasgow Youth Council which I proposed back in 2009 when I was first elected. Over the past two years the current MSYPs worked with Glasgow City Council drawing up plans to implement a Glasgow Youth Council. Now we are in a position to implement it which I hope will be done within the next 6 months.
I have also been spending time getting to know the new areas that I will be taking in for when I become the Glasgow Southside MSYP. It has been very interesting speaking with community groups in the new areas getting an idea of the issues that local people face. It has taken a bit of time as 40% of Glasgow Southside is new to me.
If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
I am pleased that I have been re-elected for a second term. I have done lots in the past two years as the MSYP for Glasgow Govan and I can do a lot more as the MSYP for the new seat which covers 60% of my old constituency, Glasgow Southside, over the next two years.
The Current MSYPs and the MSYP-Elects discussed the idea of a Glasgow Youth Council which I proposed back in 2009 when I was first elected. Over the past two years the current MSYPs worked with Glasgow City Council drawing up plans to implement a Glasgow Youth Council. Now we are in a position to implement it which I hope will be done within the next 6 months.
I have also been spending time getting to know the new areas that I will be taking in for when I become the Glasgow Southside MSYP. It has been very interesting speaking with community groups in the new areas getting an idea of the issues that local people face. It has taken a bit of time as 40% of Glasgow Southside is new to me.
If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
Wednesday, 6 April 2011
Are You Using Your Vote?
The Scottish General Election will be held on May 5. If you are registered to vote this is your opportunity to vote to decide who will be your local MSP (Constituency MSP) and your 7 Regional MSPs. You can register to vote if you are over 16 but can not vote until you are 18. Please follow this link for more information about voter registration. Use your vote, make sure your views are heard! http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/elections/voter-registration If you live in the new Glasgow Southside constituency, your candidates to become your constituency MSP are: Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish National Party (SNP) David Meikle, Conservative Stephen Curran, Labour Kenn Elder, Liberal Democrats Glasgow Regional List (you vote for a political party or independent) Scottish National Party (SNP), Alex Salmond for First Minister All Scotland Pensioners Party Scottish Conservative Party Scottish Labour Party British National Party Scottish Pirate Party Scottish Liberal Deomcrats Scottish Socialist Party Scottish Unionist Party Socialist Labour Scottish Christian Party Scottish Green Party Respect (Scotland) UKIP Scottish Homeland Party Independant (Caroline Johnstone) Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
Friday, 25 March 2011
Austin Sheridan MSYP Supports London Protest
Austin Sheridan MSYP for Glasgow Govan has said that he supports the protests that are taking place in London today. The protest march against the UK Government cuts is expected to attract around 300,000 people.
Austin Sheridan said "Today we will see the REAL big society take action on the streets of London. Even though I can not make it I know that many wish to send their best wishes to the protesters that can't attend, including myself. In my role as an MSYP I have spoken against National Citizens service, the Big Society and the bombshell VAT rise. I have spoken against them and every time a large majority of MSYPs vote against the UK Government's measures with me, now we need to see MPs do the same, in particular the Lib-Dem MPs. If they don't they will, and should, be punished at the ballot box in every upcoming election"
If you have any questions please email Austin Sheridan at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP's Office.
Austin Sheridan said "Today we will see the REAL big society take action on the streets of London. Even though I can not make it I know that many wish to send their best wishes to the protesters that can't attend, including myself. In my role as an MSYP I have spoken against National Citizens service, the Big Society and the bombshell VAT rise. I have spoken against them and every time a large majority of MSYPs vote against the UK Government's measures with me, now we need to see MPs do the same, in particular the Lib-Dem MPs. If they don't they will, and should, be punished at the ballot box in every upcoming election"
If you have any questions please email Austin Sheridan at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP's Office.
Thursday, 17 March 2011
SYP Launch Manifesto 'Change The Picture'
The Scottish Youth Parliament launched it's manifesto 'Change The Picture' at the Parliament's sitting this weekend which was hosted by Inverclyde Council.
I support most of the 49 Manifesto points that were passed by MSYPs then a massive consultation with 42,804 young people. Well ahead our target of 15,000 young people.
Here I will list the top 10 manifesto points that received the support of over 50% of MSYPs and young people consulted. I will mark in percentage the support the commitments I list received from the 42,804 young people we consulted.
These are in order of priority:
1. 'A referendum should be held on Scotland's constitutional future, with the options of no change, more powers for the Scottish Parliament or full independence.
For: 66%
Against: 14%
Not Sure: 20%
2. 'The Trident nuclear missile system should not be replaced, and no part of the existing or new systems should be located in Scotland or in Scottish waters.'
For: 61%
Against: 18%
Not Sure: 21%
3. 'Tuition should remain free in further and higher education. Top-up fees are not an option for a society which puts ability to learn above ability to pay.'
For: 85%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 9%
4. 'The success of Scotland's students must not be compromised by financial worries. Immediate action needs to be taken to ensure students don't face poverty and hardship in pursuit of their education.'
For: 84%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 10%
5. 'Government has a responsibility to encourage more people to actively participate in politics. It is particularly important that constituency candidates reflect the people they represent, including women and people from minority ethnic backgrounds. Political parties should be encouraged to stand candidates aged 25 and under in winnable seats.'
For: 70%
Against: 12%
Not Sure: 18%
6. 'The minimum age for voting in all elections and referendums should be lowered to 16.'
For: 65%
Against: 25%
Not Sure: 10%
7. 'Scotland's local tax system should be changed so that it is based on household income rather than the value of your home or the area you live in.'
For: 76%
Against: 11%
Not Sure: 13%
8. Corner's inquests, that would allow investigations into death of Scots overseas, should be introduced in Scotland.'
For: 83%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 11%
9. 'Young carers in Scotland should be shown that they are appreciated members of society and should be offered more support inside and outside of education. The Scottish Government should produce a Young Carers strategy to help improve the lives of young people who are young carers for the benefit of every single young person who cares in Scotland.'
For: 88%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 6%
10. 'The solutions to solving knife crime lie in working with young people to tackle the root causes, not by imposing mandatory sentences on those caught carrying a knife.'
For: 57%
Against: 28%
Not Sure: 15%
Well, these are the top 10 that I personally like. The full 49 Manifesto statements can be found here: www.syp.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
I support most of the 49 Manifesto points that were passed by MSYPs then a massive consultation with 42,804 young people. Well ahead our target of 15,000 young people.
Here I will list the top 10 manifesto points that received the support of over 50% of MSYPs and young people consulted. I will mark in percentage the support the commitments I list received from the 42,804 young people we consulted.
These are in order of priority:
1. 'A referendum should be held on Scotland's constitutional future, with the options of no change, more powers for the Scottish Parliament or full independence.
For: 66%
Against: 14%
Not Sure: 20%
2. 'The Trident nuclear missile system should not be replaced, and no part of the existing or new systems should be located in Scotland or in Scottish waters.'
For: 61%
Against: 18%
Not Sure: 21%
3. 'Tuition should remain free in further and higher education. Top-up fees are not an option for a society which puts ability to learn above ability to pay.'
For: 85%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 9%
4. 'The success of Scotland's students must not be compromised by financial worries. Immediate action needs to be taken to ensure students don't face poverty and hardship in pursuit of their education.'
For: 84%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 10%
5. 'Government has a responsibility to encourage more people to actively participate in politics. It is particularly important that constituency candidates reflect the people they represent, including women and people from minority ethnic backgrounds. Political parties should be encouraged to stand candidates aged 25 and under in winnable seats.'
For: 70%
Against: 12%
Not Sure: 18%
6. 'The minimum age for voting in all elections and referendums should be lowered to 16.'
For: 65%
Against: 25%
Not Sure: 10%
7. 'Scotland's local tax system should be changed so that it is based on household income rather than the value of your home or the area you live in.'
For: 76%
Against: 11%
Not Sure: 13%
8. Corner's inquests, that would allow investigations into death of Scots overseas, should be introduced in Scotland.'
For: 83%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 11%
9. 'Young carers in Scotland should be shown that they are appreciated members of society and should be offered more support inside and outside of education. The Scottish Government should produce a Young Carers strategy to help improve the lives of young people who are young carers for the benefit of every single young person who cares in Scotland.'
For: 88%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 6%
10. 'The solutions to solving knife crime lie in working with young people to tackle the root causes, not by imposing mandatory sentences on those caught carrying a knife.'
For: 57%
Against: 28%
Not Sure: 15%
Well, these are the top 10 that I personally like. The full 49 Manifesto statements can be found here: www.syp.org.uk
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
Thursday, 3 March 2011
New Glasgow Southside constituency office
From the 25th of March I will be operating from a new office in the Gorbals area where I will carry out my MSYP duties as the Member for Glasgow Southside after the election on the 25th of March.
My current Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office will close on the 31st of March.
Until the 25th of March please contact me using my Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office.
________________________________
Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office (closing on the 31st of March)
Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Pavilion 2
Rowan Business Park
5 Ardlaw Street
Glasgow
G51 3RR
Glasgow Southside MSYP constituency office (opens on the 25th of March)
Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Adelphi Centre
12 Commercial Road
Glasgow
G5 0PQ
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
My current Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office will close on the 31st of March.
Until the 25th of March please contact me using my Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office.
________________________________
Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office (closing on the 31st of March)
Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Pavilion 2
Rowan Business Park
5 Ardlaw Street
Glasgow
G51 3RR
Glasgow Southside MSYP constituency office (opens on the 25th of March)
Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Adelphi Centre
12 Commercial Road
Glasgow
G5 0PQ
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
Friday, 11 February 2011
Austin Sheridan for Glasgow Southside, MSYP Manifesto 2011
Hello,
In March 14-25 you will have the oppertunity to vote for your local Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament. I am standing for the new constituency of Glasgow Southside. In this manifesto you can read what I think are the top priorities for the constituency and nationally.
I believe that what Glasgow Southside needs is a MSYP who takes ideas forward and listens to young people. I do have ideas on what I think will be best for the area and what I would like to take to the SYP’s attention but what’s more important is that your ideas and suggestions get listened to and taken seriously. I am approachable and open minded in my views. I will make a commitment to take popular ideas that you have came up with and would push as hard as I can to see it through the body of the SYP and make a difference to you and all young people of Glasgow Southside.
Local Policy:
If I’m elected to be MSYP for Glasgow Southside I pledge to work with local high schools and colleges so that I can hear as many young people’s views as possible and act on them to the best of my ability. I would do this by having regular contact with student councils and other groups within the schools and colleges. I would also work with local youth groups and feed suggestions into local decision making panels so that I can take more ideas forward at a local level.
I will fight to ensure that local youth services continue operating as well as investment in new facilities where needed.
I want to work with young people across the constituency as more has to be done to help ethnic communities integrate with each other, especially areas in the constituency like Govanhill.
I promise to fight against the Glasgow City Council education cuts to ensure that young people get the best education possible.
I want to make sure that all young people feel safe to walk the streets. I will call for more police officers in areas of the constituency that need them.
National Policy:
All young people in Scotland should be allowed to vote when they are over 16. I will continue to fight for this on behalf of young people if elected.
I will continue to campaign to ensure that higher and further remains free in Scotland so that all young people have the opportunity to go to college and university without worrying about fees. Education should be based on ability not wealth.
I am strongly against Trident (Nuclear weapons). I believe that the 100 billion pounds spent on replacing trident should be halted immediately and the money put into protecting front line services.
If elected I would like to raise awareness about young carers in Scotland. I think that the Scottish Government and UK Government should try and do more for young Scottish carers who do a fantastic but hard and demanding job. If we give young carers in Scotland more help this would give the young person and who they are caring for a better quality of life. It is important that society looks after young carers in Scotland and make sure they get an equal start in life the same as everyone else.
Teenage pregnancies are a problem throughout Scotland. If the Scottish Government offers more help we can try to encourage young parents to stay in education so that they can give themselves and their child a better quality of life. I would like to see free or nominal charge crèches for young people in full and part time education.
I also believe that Scotland should become an independent sovereign nation while maintaining a social union with the rest of the UK. I think the question of Independence should be put forward to the people of Scotland through an independence referendum. I also believe that the voting age for this referendum should be open to all people that are 16 years of age and over.
These are the main things that I believe would benefit the young people in Glasgow Southside and throughout Scotland. If you have any questions or suggestions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
You can also visit my website at: www.austinmsyp.co.nr
Thanks,
Austin Sheridan
SYP Candidate for Glasgow Southside
In March 14-25 you will have the oppertunity to vote for your local Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament. I am standing for the new constituency of Glasgow Southside. In this manifesto you can read what I think are the top priorities for the constituency and nationally.
I believe that what Glasgow Southside needs is a MSYP who takes ideas forward and listens to young people. I do have ideas on what I think will be best for the area and what I would like to take to the SYP’s attention but what’s more important is that your ideas and suggestions get listened to and taken seriously. I am approachable and open minded in my views. I will make a commitment to take popular ideas that you have came up with and would push as hard as I can to see it through the body of the SYP and make a difference to you and all young people of Glasgow Southside.
Local Policy:
If I’m elected to be MSYP for Glasgow Southside I pledge to work with local high schools and colleges so that I can hear as many young people’s views as possible and act on them to the best of my ability. I would do this by having regular contact with student councils and other groups within the schools and colleges. I would also work with local youth groups and feed suggestions into local decision making panels so that I can take more ideas forward at a local level.
I will fight to ensure that local youth services continue operating as well as investment in new facilities where needed.
I want to work with young people across the constituency as more has to be done to help ethnic communities integrate with each other, especially areas in the constituency like Govanhill.
I promise to fight against the Glasgow City Council education cuts to ensure that young people get the best education possible.
I want to make sure that all young people feel safe to walk the streets. I will call for more police officers in areas of the constituency that need them.
National Policy:
All young people in Scotland should be allowed to vote when they are over 16. I will continue to fight for this on behalf of young people if elected.
I will continue to campaign to ensure that higher and further remains free in Scotland so that all young people have the opportunity to go to college and university without worrying about fees. Education should be based on ability not wealth.
I am strongly against Trident (Nuclear weapons). I believe that the 100 billion pounds spent on replacing trident should be halted immediately and the money put into protecting front line services.
If elected I would like to raise awareness about young carers in Scotland. I think that the Scottish Government and UK Government should try and do more for young Scottish carers who do a fantastic but hard and demanding job. If we give young carers in Scotland more help this would give the young person and who they are caring for a better quality of life. It is important that society looks after young carers in Scotland and make sure they get an equal start in life the same as everyone else.
Teenage pregnancies are a problem throughout Scotland. If the Scottish Government offers more help we can try to encourage young parents to stay in education so that they can give themselves and their child a better quality of life. I would like to see free or nominal charge crèches for young people in full and part time education.
I also believe that Scotland should become an independent sovereign nation while maintaining a social union with the rest of the UK. I think the question of Independence should be put forward to the people of Scotland through an independence referendum. I also believe that the voting age for this referendum should be open to all people that are 16 years of age and over.
These are the main things that I believe would benefit the young people in Glasgow Southside and throughout Scotland. If you have any questions or suggestions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
You can also visit my website at: www.austinmsyp.co.nr
Thanks,
Austin Sheridan
SYP Candidate for Glasgow Southside
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