I WOULD like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Last year was a very busy year politically with the General Election and a number of important pieces of legislation and decisions going through parliament. I would like to firstly thank all those who gave me such an endorsement at the election and assure everyone that I and my office are here to help regardless of how you voted.

I was pleased to catch up and thank the postmen just before Christmas. They, and other delivery companies, work exceptionally hard at this time of year making sure that people’s Christmas wishes and gifts get to people safely and in good time.

I would also like to spend a thought for all those who work over the Christmas period including our brave armed forces keeping our borders safe.

As a mother of a serving officer in the Royal Navy, I fully understand the implications and dangers that are associated with any deployment of our armed forces. The RAF were already deployed to the region and engaging the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL) targets in Iraq and nobody I hope, who saw the pictures which came from Paris, cannot be moved by this destruction. Daesh hate us. Hate us to the point that they will lay down their lives to kill as many of us as they can. But it is not just an offensive action, Britain is also already doing a massive amount to deliver humanitarian aid in the region.

I also would like to thank the emergency services we rely on closer to home. I would like to also thank all those that provide services over the Christmas period including all those who look after the vulnerable, to all those who allow us to get about and to all those that open their businesses to allow us to enjoy ourselves including the many hotels, restaurants and pubs which provide excellent meals.

I am really lucky to be able to see so many friends and family over the festive period but I do spare a thought for all those who are on their own. If you have family or friends who you are not able to see I do hope you were able to pick up the phone and give them a call.

I have called for a debate after the disappointing result of the European Union fish quota negotiations. I will keep pressing the minister when Parliament returns as parts of the deal secured goes against the scientific advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea and could be a serious threat to the economic viability of some of my fishermen from Looe.

I notice that there was a protest against the disposal of dredged spoil from the River Tamar and Cattwater Harbour in Plymouth. I have for many years been concerned about the continued use of this dispersal site and am keen to ensure we secure a resolution to the situation which protects the environment but also allows the continuation of services which are vital to the economy of Plymouth and South East Cornwall.

I was hoping to meet with the Chief Executive of the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) in the last week in Westminster before the Christmas recess to raise this issue but unfortunately he had to cancel this meeting at short notice. I will continue to press for a resolution and will be in discussion with the MMO as soon as I can.

If anyone would like to contact me please ring 01579 344428, email me at [email protected] or pop into my Liskeard office in The Parade.