New MSP uses first Parliamentary motion to raise homelessness and debt issues

SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands, Emma Roddick, has used her first Parliamentary motion to highlight that, while action was taken during the COVID pandemic to protect people from eviction and sudden loss of income, many were suffering before the outbreak.

She has asked the Scottish Government to look into whether any extra protections can be made permanent to protect people from homelessness and debt indefinitely.

She said:
“I hope that more people are now aware that most of us are just one or two months of unemployment or one eviction notice away from being in a very difficult situation.

“Many people suffered evictions and income insecurity before the pandemic hit us in 2020, and many will continue to once we have recovered.

“We have to keep in mind that essential workers aren’t just essential during a pandemic, evictions aren’t just life-changing during an pandemic, and unfair dismissals aren’t just unacceptable during a pandemic.

“Let’s capitalise on the empathy and understanding developed in this incredibly difficult year and look to create a country which is supportive and prevents homelessness and debt where possible, regardless of whether there’s a virus circulating.”