These statements have been supplied from Midlothian SNP’s website. They did not provide us with personal manifestos.
Debbi McCall – Penicuik
I moved from the Southside of Edinburgh to Penicuik 16 years ago with my daughter and have enjoyed being active in the community ever since. I’m a passionate advocate for social justice and was a volunteer at Penicuik Citizens Advice Bureau. This led to paid employment within Welfare Rights and I have also undertaken Court Representation prior to my current post within a Housing Association.
I have also been at the sharp end of Tribunal Representation, taking on the then Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith and enjoyed a high success rate for my clients, most of whom had a disability or were homeless or under threat of homelessness.
I have seen firsthand how the Tory Government’s Welfare Reforms have impacted on the most vulnerable members of the community and how the SNP at Holyrood has managed to mitigate some of these reforms, such as the Bedroom tax. I am looking forward to using my experience to help the people of Penicuik.
Joe Wallace – Penicuik (Incumbent)
I am a resident of Penicuik and have three grown up sons and five grandchildren.
Before I retired I was an electrician to trade but I come from a long line of miners. My grandfathers, father and brother all worked underground.
My decision to stand again for Midlothian Council is motivated by my long-held belief in social justice and fairness which I consider to be a part of Scottish culture but which has come under fierce attack from an uncaring right wing UK Government. I am determined to work for a more just and equitable society, for residents across Penicuik and Midlothian.
Like many Penicuik residents, when I was first elected I had great concerns regarding the town centre. I am delighted to have been able to be a part of the efforts to revitalise the area keep up the pace of continuing this work in the next Council.
Kelly Parry – Midlothian West (Incumbent)
Before becoming a Councillor in 2015 I worked in education policy and financial services and a former Board Member of Edinburgh College. My driving force for being a Councillor has always been my lived experiences living here and a passion for making Midlothian West the best place it can be to live, work and learn.
As a parent, I know how important it is that our children have the best education possible and I’ve been delighted to oversee the opening of new schools across the ward, Bilston Primary, Roslin Primary and the current building of the new Paradykes Primary are a stepping stones a better future for our children but there is still work to do.
Having lived in Midlothian all my life – working, studying and bringing up a child here has given me a grounded and common sense approach and the ability to make positive changes for our community despite the challenges that surround us.
David Temple – Midlothian West
I am a local resident living in Loanhead with my wife and have two daughters and a grandson. For most of my life, I was employed in the printing trade. Latterly I have been self- employed running a successful gardening business.
I am passionate about issues such as education and protecting the vulnerable in our County. The impact of Tory Westminster budget cuts has been severe across Scotland and Midlothian has suffered as well.
I will be a strong voice for Midlothian West and will always put my constituent’s interests first and look forward to this opportunity to serve the community.
I have a lifetime interest in sport, especially rugby. My other interests are photography, gardening and Scottish history. I am very keen to see sport in Midlothian developed and for our young people to realise their full potential.