AFTER 18 long months of debate, discussion and campaigning, we have finally had our say on our country’s future.

Therefore today, in the wake of the referendum outcome, our real challenge begins.

Regardless of your political view and whether or not you voted Yes or No, it is now the duty of everyone who works, lives and cares about the future of Scotland to come together and help heal the divide which the referendum has sadly brought to our communities.

As the referendum campaign demonstrated, what unites us all, regardless of which campaign you supported, is a determination to create a better society for all.

As a result of the referendum, Scotland has been politically re-energised with families and friends of all ages and backgrounds now regularly engaging in debating the big issues affecting each and every one of us; issues such as funding our public services, social security and how we create a fairer society.

We must harness that political engagement and ensure all Scots play a role in this new chapter of Scotland’s future. As your MP, I assure you, I will continue to work tirelessly for the people of Inverclyde as we begin this new chapter together.

Therefore, as the outcome of this historic referendum sinks in, I hope everyone in Inverclyde will now unite, accept the democratic decision of the Scottish people and work together to create the better society we all want to see.