DEREK Mackay writes for you... Drop in Recorded Crime in Renfrewshire I was very pleased last week to discover that recorded crime across Renfrewshire in the last year has dropped by almost 20% from the previous year. We all want to live and work in a safe, happy, crime free area and these figures show that through the hard work of the Scottish Government and local organisations, Renfrewshire is a safer place to live and work than it was before the SNP took office in 2007. Since 2007 recorded crime across Renfrewshire has dropped by 37%. This is by and large down to policy decisions, such as to put over 1,000 extra police officers on the streets of Scotland. This policy, like many others, would not have been in place if the Labour Party had their way. To put 1,000 extra police officers on our streets, to protect our communities, was a decision made by the SNP, a decision that is now proving, as I always knew it would, to be correct.

Paisley Pipe Band Championships Last weekend I was delighted to attend the Paisley Pipe Band Competition at County Square in Paisley. It was the third year Paisley has hosted the event, which had bands come from right across the country. However, although all travelling bands performed well, I was particularly impressed by our local bands. With the weather holding out for most of the day it was a great day out for everyone who was there. I am already looking forward to next year's event.

Erskine Day Out On Friday I attended the Rashielee North official opening in Erksine. The family fun day, to celebrate Bridgewater Housing Association's recently completed new building development of flats and houses, was a great day out with much activities on offer, including beat the goalie. However, despite the urge, I managed to stop myself from taking part in the face painting- maybe next time.

Ministerial Duties Last Wednesday in my ministerial role I was invited to perform the official opening of McCarthy & Stone's new retirement housing development in Giffnock, East Renfrewshire. At the new development, specifically designed for people with additional care and support needs over the age of 70, I met with residents to discuss their views.