'I AM delighted to be writing in the Politician’s Opinion Column once again, these are unprecedented times and I want to re-assure you all that I’m continuing to work around the clock, day and night, to represent each and every young person in the Cowdenbeath Constituency. Please get in touch if you have an issue, concern or comment.

New Restrictions

The First Minister and the Scottish Government have announced new restrictions in the fight against COVID-19 in Scotland. This includes not mixing with other households in-doors, a six person rule on outdoor visits and a curfew on pubs and other hospitality of 10pm.

I urge each and every young person in the Cowdenbeath Area to PLEASE abide by these rules and follow them. The virus is spreading like wild fire, it is here in Lochgelly and Cowdenbeath. I have friends who are 'positive' – I urge you all to take this seriously. Do not flout the rules – lives depend on this.

My Opinion

A lot of focus has been given in recent days on University students and COVID-19. Many people in the public debate are blaming students for the spike in COVID-19 and whilst it is correct that students are testing positive in record amounts, we didn’t ask for this.

Students have been moved into halls across Scotland, to learn online. These outbreaks across the country could have been avoided, there was a drive to get people back into education, schools are different from University.

I call on the Scottish Government and health boards across Scotland to mobilise mobile testing units at every university in Scotland to ensure that students can be tested quickly and safely to ensure that when a student tests positive, they self isolate immediately. We have many students who cannot access tests, due to the length of travel. This shouldn’t be the case when many students do not drive. Mobile testing units at universities are needed now before this gets even worse.

Future

Many of my constituents have been in touch with me to enquire about my position. I have announced that I am standing down from my national positions of Trustee of the Scottish Youth Parliament and YoungScot.

Whilst I step back from my national role, to focus on what the future holds for me, be it university or other political commitments, I shall remain as the Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for Cowdenbeath until the next election. I will make sure you are all represented and your voices are heard'.

If any young person (12-25) has an issue/concern they’d like me to raise, or wants to know more about my work, please get in touch by emailing Bailey-Lee.Robb.MSYP@sypmail.org.uk or following me on Twitter: @BaileyLeeMSYP.