Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 14th October 2020) below:
Coronavirus
As I write this column (on Sunday evening) there is a lot of speculation about what will have been announced by the time you read it in relation to potential further “lockdown” measures.
Thankfully this virus does not cause a serious illness in all it infects, but for thousands of our neighbours, especially those who have specific health conditions, it presents a potentially deadly threat. Many others could face lifelong impacts from catching it, including those in younger age groups where deaths are rare.
I also meet those who have seen a business they worked hard to build up disappear overnight or lost a dream job. Others will be nervously looking towards the coming period to see if their job will be safe. There are no easy options, no simple solutions.
Our bay has faced difficult times before when there appeared to be lots of challenges and little hope. Yet each time we came through and rebuilt, as we will once this period is over. The current circumstances have seen travellers who always holiday abroad find out there is a beautiful Riviera much closer to home and when a call went out to serve a new generation stepped forward to do so.
It is vital we follow the guidance and advice being given now and over the winter months, yet there will come a time when, as Her Majesty said earlier this year, we will all meet again.
Hospital Rebuild
It is fantastic to see the major project to rebuild Torbay Hospital make further progress.
Recent times have shown how vital the services it provides are. This massive investment in its buildings will not only secure the future of our local health services but be a welcome shot in the arm for our local economy.
MP Pay Rise?
Given the current public health crisis and the resulting economic impact it was bizarre to hear the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is proposing a 4.1% pay rise for MPs.
Despite IPSA linking their proposal to other pay increases in the public sector, it appears they are completely oblivious to the reality of what many are facing across our nation and tin eared to the objections many will raise.
Since 2009 MPs have not voted on their own pay, with IPSA having the final decision-making power under laws passed just after the expenses scandal. This means I will not get a chance to vote against this proposal as our bay’s MP.
If this pay rise is implemented by IPSA despite my views, I will ensure it is donated to local charities on the same basis as the pledge I made to donate the 10% pay rise IPSA implemented back in 2015, which I repeated in 2017 & 2019.
Surgery Times
I continue to hold my regular advice surgeries, although due to current public health guidance they must be by appointment only.
My next surgeries will be on Saturday 17th October from 11am till 1pm and Friday 23rd October from 3pm till 5pm, both at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. Social distancing measures will be in place and please bring a face covering unless you have a medical condition which means you cannot wear one.
To book an appointment you can email me at [email protected] or telephone 01803 214989.
