
Lanarkshire MSP recognised for dedication to protecting Scotland's environment
A Lanarkshire MSP was recognised by Scottish Environment LINK for her dedication to protecting Scotland's natural environment, as part of a celebration of MSP Nature Champions, held in the Scottish Parliament.
The reception recognised the efforts of MSPs currently signed up as Nature Champions and celebrated the different ways in which they have championed Scotland's iconic and threatened species and habitats over the current Parliament.
Labour's Central Scotland list MSP Monica Lennon's award was 'in recognition of a MSP who has developed a personal connection with a species or habitat through her Nature Champions role'.
In addition to her hands‑on advocacy, Monica has recently championed legislation that could dramatically reshape environmental protection in Scotland - the Ecocide (Scotland) Bill.
Introduced into Parliament in May, this proposed Members' Bill would make 'ecocide' - severe environmental harm that is widespread, long‑term or irreversible - a new criminal offence in Scots law.
Monica said: 'It is a privilege to receive this recognition from Scottish Environment LINK.
'Nature means a lot to me, and I've loved being part of the Nature Champions programme. Whether it's speaking up for Scotland's wildlife or pushing for stronger laws like the Ecocide Bill, I just want to do my bit to protect the places and species we all care about - now and for the future.
'Big thanks to everyone involved in this brilliant initiative. It's great to be part of a team that's so passionate about looking after our natural world.'
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Scottish Sun
18 minutes ago
- Scottish Sun
Miscarriage bereavement leave law shake-up is a long time coming, say campaigners
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I've heard first-hand from people that they've had a miscarriage and their employer has said, 'Oh god, that's awful, take the day off and we'll see you tomorrow'. 'That can't be for your employer to decide. 'For ladies that have been pregnant, and this was definitely the case for me, your life changes from the minute that you pee on the stick and you find out you're pregnant. 'There needs to be time for women who have lost under 24 weeks, and their partners too, to be able to acknowledge that this is a big loss.' Now Sarah hopes that the legislation move will remove some of the stigma around miscarriage and lead to more awareness. She added: 'There's still work to be done. Changing policies, upskilling your staff, understanding so that we're not whispering about miscarriage and baby loss. 'One in four pregnancies ends in a loss and it doesn't discriminate either. Everyone will be touched by it, directly or indirectly. So we should be talking about these things. 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Daily Mirror
19 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
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Former Labour MP Zarah Sultana, who last week quit as a Labour member more than a year after having the whip withdrawn, said: "This is a Government not only out of touch but also morally bankrupt. It works for billionaires and big businesses but turns its back on disabled people." But the Government argues reform is badly needed to better support people getting back into work. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: 'Our reforms are built on the principle of fairness, fixing a system that for too long has left people trapped in a cycle of dependence. We are giving extra support to millions of households across the country, while offering disabled people the chance to work without fear of the repercussions if things don't work out. 'These reforms will change the lives of people across the country, so they have a real chance for a better future.' The Government had initially proposed limiting access to personal independence payments (PIP) and health aspects of Universal Credit. 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People with a learning disability should be at the heart of these reforms and we welcome today's commitment and reassurance that this will happen.' 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Telegraph
an hour ago
- Telegraph
Rayner backs down in Islamophobia free speech row
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