Maree Todd (pictured), currently a list MSP for the Highlands & Islands, has been confirmed as the SNP candidate for Caithness, Sutherland & Ross in next year’s Scottish Parliament elections.
Ms Todd said:
“I’m delighted that SNP branch members in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross have confirmed me as their candidate for the 2021 election.
“This seat includes Ullapool where I grew up and Strathpeffer where I now live with my family.
“It would be the privilege of my life to represent my home constituency and the people I grew up with and care about.
“I was elected to Holyrood in 2016 as a Highlands & Islands regional list MSP and I have a strong record of hard work and covering the region – despite my region covering half the land mass of Scotland!
“I know this constituency like the back of my hand.
“I have gained extensive campaign experience here, and all over Scotland.
“Due to Covid-19, this campaign will be like no other, but I’m fizzing with ideas and I’m eager to build a team that can win it and win big.”
Speaking of the challenges facing the far North, Ms Todd adds:
“Caithness, Sutherland and Ross are rich with opportunity. Renewable energy, abundant seas, and excellent food and drink are synonymous with the area.
“However, at this moment in time, we face significant challenges.
“Covid-19 has affected each and every one of us and fundamentally changed the way we live our lives.
“Being a Government Minister at this time of national crisis has reinforced the extent to which we, as politicians, are responsible for the safety and prosperity of the people of Scotland on a day to day basis.
“The responsibility is significant, and I am daily reminded of the very real impact our decisions have on my constituents.
“We also face the looming catastrophe of a no deal or a low deal Brexit.
“The damage that this will do to our people and our children’s future is incalculable.
“We didn’t choose this, but we’ll have to deal with the consequences without the powers to protect ourselves.
“And those limited powers we have are under threat.”
Commenting on Scotland’s future, Ms Todd adds:
“Recent events have shown very clearly what can happen when decision-making is taken within Scotland, for the benefit of Scottish people.
“Opinion polls are consistently returning a majority for Yes, showing the highest sustained support for independence in my lifetime.
“Now more than ever, I believe we need to choose our own way forward – as an independent nation.
“Let’s go for it.”
