Time is running out for many of the Waspi women

The answer sadly is absolutely nothing. Thankfully the House of Commons and in particular the minister responsible for state pensions was reminded of the plight of the Waspi women by SNP MP Seamus Logan in the House of Commons on Monday. Mr Logan informed the House of Commons that tragically more than 1500 Waspi women had sadly died with no justice since the Labour government was elected.

READ MORE: We will not pay Waspi women any compensation, Labour Government says

Those women and those still awaiting justice did nothing wrong, their only crime was being born in the early 1950s, something they had no control over. However, successive Westminster governments, who wronged those women by breaking their own rules regarding notice to those being affected by the raising of the state pension age entitlement, have had the power to rectify this injustice.

Time is not on Waspi women’s side and justice is urgent. With many of the women affected now well into their 70s with deteriorating health and financial concerns exacerbated by the removal of the Winter Fuel Payment, words from the Under Secretary of State Emma Reynolds MP are a cold comfort; it is action that is needed and needed urgently. After all, we are currently in the season of goodwill, so could someone please let the Labour government know this.

Catriona C ClarkFalkirk

READ MORE: Scottish Labour MP 'appalled' as Waspi women to receive no compensation

AS another year stumbles to a close, it has been dominated by what appears to be relentless bleakness on a global stage. Conflict in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as a continuing cost-of-living crisis on our own shores.

However, there have been many positives to come out of 2024, which have maybe not grabbed the headlines merited.

New medical breakthroughs included the delivery of a new era of schizophrenia treatment, with the approval of the drug KarXT and groundbreaking medical trials, like for the world’s first mRNA lung cancer vaccine, offered a glimpse into a healthier future.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon provides update on upcoming book in STV interview

In the UK, renewable power overtook fossil fuel generation for the first time, and Norway became the first country in the world where electric cars outnumbered petrol cars.

Greece legalised same-sex marriage and adoption, becoming the first Orthodox Christian Country to do so, and 642 million people voted in India’s general election, setting the record for the world’s largest election.

Meanwhile, the Paris Summer Olympics dazzled the world with extraordinary athletic performances, and the San Marino football team, who had previously never won a competitive match, won not one, but two.

In what may appear to a doom-laden year, let us spare a few moments to reflect on the many positives.

Alex OrrEdinburgh

HOMELESSNESS among veterans remains a significant issue in Scotland and across the UK. While many transition successfully to civilian life, some face challenges such as PTSD, mental health struggles, relationship breakdowns, and barriers to accessing housing and support services.

Charities like SSAFA, the Royal British Legion, Combat Stress, and Haig Housing Trust do exceptional work, often serving as vital lifelines for veterans in need. Their dedication is inspiring and deserving of the highest praise. However, the burden they carry is too great to be borne by charities alone.

The Scottish Executive and the UK Government must urgently step up their efforts. While policies like the Armed Forces Covenant and Scotland’s Housing Options for veterans are commendable, gaps in implementation leave too many veterans vulnerable. Immediate action is needed to increase affordable housing, ensure accessible mental health services, and improve coordination between agencies so no veteran is left behind.

Our veterans have served the nation with courage and sacrifice. It is our duty to repay that service by ensuring they have the support they need to build stable, fulfilling civilian lives. Governments must act now to ensure no veteran is left without a safe place to call home.

Alastair RedmanIndependent Councillor, Kintyre and the Islands WardPort Charlotte, Islay

WE know that Mr “Brain Worm”, Robert F Kennedy Jnr, is going to be in charge of health services in the US. He is linked to the deadly outbreak of measles in 2019 in Samoa that led to the deaths of around 80 children after his visit promoting anti-vax myths.

Are UK politicians going to implement rigid controls for those travelling from the US post-January or just do what they normally do – wait until the crisis occurs and start the public hand-wringing after the very obvious happens?

Amanda BakerEdinburgh