The world of politics is unprecedented and uncertain – things can change as quickly as they arise, and politicians are often required to adapt to new situations that they may never have expected. This was most certainly the case for me on the 25th of January.

Following the departure of my good friend Graeme Dey as Minister for Transport, I was appointed the role just over two weeks’ ago now.

Taking on the role of Minister for Transport is no mean feat; however, I am excited to embrace the role fully and play my part in shaping Scotland’s transport system moving forward. This portfolio is an exciting opportunity to not just shape the infrastructure of our country, but also to help Scotland become a world leader in achieving our goal to reach net zero by 2045.

Last week I undertook my first visits as Transport Minister, including a trip to officially open a new bypass in Maybole, South Ayrshire. The bypass was a community-led project which begun construction almost three years ago – a project not too dissimilar in the strong community-backing of the recent road improvements to the A92 in Glenrothes.

Next up I travelled up to Glasgow to officially launch the under 22s free bus travel scheme - a transformational investment in Scotland’s children and young people. Extending free bus travel will make public transport more affordable and help give many young people wider access to more education, leisure, and work opportunities. It will also support the choice to travel sustainably early in their lives.

Increasing bus use will help us achieve our world-leading goal of reducing the number of kilometres travelled by car by 20 per cent by 2030 and reaching net zero emissions by 2045. The introduction of this policy is not only another SNP manifesto commitment achieved but will help tackle inequality and improve the lives of around 930,000 young people across Scotland.

The Scottish Government has partnered with the Improvement Service, the National Entitlement Card Programme Office and Young Scot to deliver the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme - and information about the scheme and how to apply is available on the Transport Scotland website.

Despite the changes to my role in Parliament, I would like to remind constituents that, while my new job within the Government comes with a number of new tasks and responsibilities, I remain dedicated to serving you in the Scottish Parliament and representing your views. I am first and foremost the representative for Mid Fife and Glenrothes and remain committed to helping with any issues I can assist with.

My constituency team and I can be contacted at jenny.gilruth.msp@parliament.scot.