The murder of Sir David Amess MP last Friday was dreadful and shocking. My thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, colleagues and staff.

Sarah Everard’s killer, a policeman, was sentenced and another man was arrested for the murder of teacher Sabina Nessa, who was walking to meet a friend when she was killed. The deaths of both women have once again highlighted the continuing violence against women and girls by some men in our society.

I write this on World Car Free Day 2021, a day to promote alternatives to car use. That’s good if there are alternatives to promote, like bus or rail links, if it’s not possible to walk. In communities like ours, where public transport does not meet everyone’s needs, then it is not unreasonable to consider a car an essential, and Shetland’s geography and inclement weather play a part in that car use.

The debate in the Scottish Parliament last Thursday on Supporting the People of Afghanistan was a powerful one which saw thoughtful and passionate contributions from all sides of the chamber. Keen to ensure that the country will play its part and offer refuge to those fleeing for their lives, there were repeated calls of support for the resettlement of refugees. The Scottish Government has made it clear that it will do so, as has Shetland Islands Council.

Scottish Liberal Democrats have a new leader. Alex Cole-Hamilton took over the reins last Friday following Willie Rennie’s 10 years as leader. Alex is hard-working and liberal to his core. Since his first election Alex has held the Scottish Government to account at every turn, stood up for his constituents and championed young people.

On Tuesday we learned from the First Minister’s statement of the move “beyond level zero” for Covid restrictions from Monday.

The Prospect Union strike next Thursday regarding the centralisation of air traffic services in Inverness should come as no surprise to HIAL (Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd) or the Scottish Government. They have been told time and again that the project is flawed and will result in job losses across the Highlands and Islands.

The week started with the long-awaited publication of the report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Given its contents it is no surprise that the SNP Government did not want it released before the election.

This is Carers Week. For many carers, the pandemic has been ​a more intense and challenging time than usual. They have pressed on in extremely difficult circumstances.

As the dust settles on an election campaign like no other, I want to begin with a thank you to the voters in Shetland who put their faith in me to serve as their MSP for the next five years. I am humbled by the support I received from you, my campaign team, volunteers and supporters. Thank you.