BY the time you read this, the opening ceremony of the Queensferry Crossing will have taken place and I can now inform Tele readers that I took part in the ceremony. 

As Parliamentary Piper I have been given the privilege to play and witness this historic occasion.

The constituency already has a link with the bridge with some of the workforce coming from here. 

Inverclyde now has another part of its history as I represented both our area and Parliament. 

Construction began six years ago and has been delivered by the Scottish Government £245m under budget. 

This new symbol of industry and engineering is 1.7 miles (2.7km) making it the longest bridge of its type in the world and at 210m (689ft) high, is the tallest in these islands.

Well done everyone who has taken part in building this magnificent bridge and feat of engineering.
 

This week Parliament resumes after summer recess. 
I have enjoyed a great summer back in the constituency meeting with constituents and local businesses and getting through work that will benefit our area. 

Some debate has also been stimulated regarding a Watt Festival and a proposal for a local Tourism Levy. 

However, being back in Parliament means it is back to committees, debates, cross party groups and events. 
Brexit is the critical issue and next Monday I will travel to Brussels with European Committee members to meet with the EU’s Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier. 

It tells a story that we will meet the EU negotiator before the UK Government negotiator, David Davis MP.