It is time for change – Fife needs new skills and experience at the table. I have always fought for social justice and over the years I have developed the life experience and skills required to meet this demanding role. I grew up in Burntisland from a working-class family in a council estate. I have worked since leaving school at 16 years of age serving a YTS apprenticeship and working evenings. I went onto work abroad for several years. I worked in estate management in Scotland and back to study at night school whilst working full time. I am self-motivated and an effective leader and more importantly I will challenge decisions and won’t shy away from tough choices. Using my skills and experience in the private, public, business and third sector and with my energy and passion I will continue to help people make a real difference.

Losing my father John MacDougall well known and respected Labour Politician in Fife in 2008 to Mesothelioma Asbestos Cancer had a huge impact my life. I worked with his successor Lindsay Roy then Member of Parliament for his full term almost seven years as his office manager and have already represented the constituents of Fife successfully and I know the issues affecting people at the grassroots of our communities. I have a strong track record in resolving a multitude of issues and have contributed to policy over the years. I established the John MacDougall Mesothelioma Trust which I continue to campaign helping people affected by Mesothelioma (Asbestos Cancer) in Fife. We have already participated and successfully passed the Mesothelioma Act through parliament 2014. I am a member of the GMB Union and will work with the union for workers rights and tackling social injustices.

As a locally elected Councillor serving Burntisland, Kinghorn and Western Kirkcaldy I am committed and driven working towards positive and sustainable change for rebuilding the community. As local councils have their budgets cut I am working with colleagues in these challenging economic times ensuring the funding for the committed projects such as the Beacon Leisure Centre in Burntisland go ahead.

I am  already working collectively with our Local communities, Councillors, MSPs and MPs, to bring forward the changes we need. As a locally elected member I am involved in several committees which involves working cross party participating, scrutinising and making decisions with Fife Council on behalf of the people of Fife. This is a time for healing not further division. We must invest in infrastructure creating jobs, work collectively in partnership with businesses, voluntary organisations, trade unions and create apprenticeships for our young people. In partnership we will create sustainable life and employment opportunities for the area and have the social commitment enabling  communities to reach their full potential. Through partnership working we will regenerate the high streets in our towns and villages.

Labour has a plan for growing our economy, promoting clean energy, reforming our NHS and tackling crime prevention as well as improving our education. We want to make sure we have Councillors, MSP’s and MP’s who are rooted in our communities delivering this plan. As a local Councillor I am committed to ensuring that constituents views are heard and we work collectively to improve our local area.

I am hard working, determined, with a strong character I have a track record of getting things done for constituents and communities.  We need a strong Government now more than ever who will ensure rebuilding is equitable across our communities and gives the support they need and deserve during  these extremely difficult times. I can assure you I will not let you down – I am a person of conviction.