Newly elected MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, John Mason, has made his first speech in the Scottish Parliament since winning the election for the SNP in the City’s East End. Speaking in a Scottish Government debate, led by Alex Salmond, the new MSP for the East End seat spoke about the “good news” and significant investment in Glasgow by the SNP Government.

In a six minute speech, the former Glasgow East MP spoke about major capital spending in the East End, referring to projects such as the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the M74 motorway extension – which is due to open next month – and the new Glasgow to Edinburgh Rail link.

During his speech John Mason paid tribute to the former Labour MSPs – Margaret Curran and Frank McAveety – who both represented the East End in Holyrood prior to the 2011 boundary changes. In a debate that focussed on the SNP’s vision for Scotland, the new MSP also spoke about the issue of sectarianism, which has blighted the city for many decades.

Speaking after the debate, the SNP MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, John Mason said:

“It was an immense honour and privilege to make my maiden speech in the Scottish Parliament this week.

“I have spent my entire political life working for the East End of Glasgow, so being given the opportunity to represent Glasgow Shettleston in the Scottish Parliament is very humbling but equally a huge challenge.

“We all know that the East End has its problems – that includes sectarianism – but having spent months on the campaign trail talking positive about Scotland and how we can be better, I am keen to focus on the good news that the SNP Government has to offer the East End.

“Since 2007, Alex Salmond’s SNP Government has invested in local and national projects such as the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the new Edinburgh Rail Link and the M74 extension, which is due to open on the 28th June – way ahead of schedule.

“The result at the recent election – particularly in Glasgow – shows that people have once again put their trust in the SNP to continue the good work started in 2007. Clearly we live in difficult times and budgets will be squeezed but I pledge to continue fighting Glasgow and the East End’s corner. History is rapidly showing that, when the SNP wins, Glasgow wins.

“I look forward to continuing that fight and making sure Glasgow Shettleston has a strong voice in the Scottish Parliament”.