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IAN ROOME IS THE LIBERAL DEMOCRAT MP FOR NORTH DEVON
Before I reflect on my first weeks as North Devon’s new MP, I would like to say a big thank you for all the amazing support I received during the election campaign and for placing your trust in me.
Having dedicated most of my life to serving our local community – whether through my work for the NHS, charity, or as a councillor – I have long been aware of the challenges facing our local community and where we are being let down. This was the driving force of my campaign. I fought this campaign because I knew how much North Devon needed change and I wanted to be a part of that.
Now, having been elected, it’s time to deliver on that promise, and I’m pleased to say that I’ve already started paving the way for this positive, tangible change.
After being sworn in in Parliament, I wasted no time in returning to North Devon to use the recess period productively by assessing the local issues first-hand.
My primary goal has been to speak with as many of you as possible, understand your concerns, and tackle problems head-on. One of my first actions was attending the consultation on the Our Future Hospital programme to hear about the plans for the future of North Devon District Hospital. Knowing how vital this project is, I’ve already contacted the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and urged that funding be protected following the Chancellor’s statement that the previous government did not have money in place for the New Hospital Programme. I also secured a meeting with the Secretary of State to advocate for the importance of this critical investment. After that, I attended the North Devon Show, where I met local farmers and representatives of the National Farmers’ Union to discuss the current challenges they are facing and what they need from the government. It was great to see the community come together at the show; the variety of stalls really did showcase the best of our area.
Despite my busy timetable, split between parliamentary and constituency commitments, my priority has been and will always be to help those who need it the most, with surgery appointments and personal casework.
I intend to do this regularly during my time in office, right across North Devon, as I am well aware of the importance of having an MP who is there and willing to intervene personally on behalf of individuals.
On a similar note, I’m pleased to say that I’ve now assembled a dedicated staff team to help tackle local casework, ensuring that anyone can receive the support they need. From meeting local charities such as the Pickwell Foundation and the Calvert Trust to attending the opening of the new Royal Mail sorting office in Mullacott, these first few weeks have been incredibly busy, but they have also been incredibly rewarding.
As I said time and again during the election, I am committed to being North Devon’s voice in Parliament, not Parliament’s voice in North Devon. As I continue to meet more of you and address the issues that matter most to our community, I look forward to sharing more updates and, most importantly, delivering the change we need.
