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The NDAP process was an iterative process undertaken over a number of months, involving the NDAP Team from NHS Scotland Assure, the NHS Grampian Project team, key stakeholders, Graham Construction and their design team. The NHS Grampian Project team worked through each of the NDAP issues with stakeholders, until a design solution that met the needs of all parties was achieved and evidenced, in line with appropriate standards and guidance. This led to a ‘supported’ NDAP Report.

I refer the member to the answer to question S6W-15497 on 16 March 2023. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament's website, the search facility for which can be found at https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/written-questions-and-answers

Travel vaccinations in the Western Isles and Orkney are currently offered by GPs in those Health Boards, therefore there is not a need to support travel to the mainland.

I refer the member to the answer to question S6W-15072 on 16 March 2023. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament's website, the search facility for which can be found at https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/written-questions-and-answers .

I refer the member to the answer to question S6W-15073 on 16 March 2023. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament's website, the search facility for which can be found at https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/written-questions-and-answers .

Neither the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care nor the Minister for Public Health, Women’s Health and Sport have met with NHS Boards to discuss pulmonary rehabilitation services.

This is a complex repair of an expansive structure that is trafficked by approximately 150,000 vehicles on a daily basis. Although temporary works are well underway, the final design for the permanent repairs is yet to be completed, which will then inform the overall project cost estimate.

The latest phase (propping works of the structure) includes a trial repair which is programmed for Summer 2023. The findings from that trial are key to the next stages as they influence the options for the final design and hence the total costs.

As we work towards the introduction of the Education (Scotland) Bill prior to the summer recess and the creation of the new Qualifications Body, visionary and resilient leadership is essential for the SQA and its successor organisation. This will guide it through the process of transition and embed the required reforms set out in the findings of the Muir report and on which the Government is determined to deliver. I am therefore announcing an appointment round for the position of Chair of the SQA, with the successful candidate taking up post in September 2023.

It is my intention that the new Chair of the SQA will transfer to the new body and will become the Chair of the new Qualification Body. Provisions to allow this transfer to happen will be included in the upcoming Bill and will be subject to Parliamentary approval.

This approach will support the crucial transition period allowing the new Qualifications Body to take full advantage of the changes in leadership, culture and governance necessitated by the Government’s Reform Programme. This will also be shaped by the National Discussion, the findings of the Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment, the Independent Review of the Skills Delivery Landscape.

Workforce numbers and locations are regularly reviewed to ensure that the organisation is delivering for the people of Scotland as efficiently and effectively as possible. We undertake workforce planning in line with Scottish Government priorities.

In addition to considering the location of roles, the Scottish Government is committed to flexible hybrid working for our workforce, enabling staff to work from a range of locations, both within government offices and working from home. Some of these locations are situated within the Highlands and Islands. Managers are asked to establish a flexible hybrid model with their teams that ensure meets business needs are met, which will vary depending on the nature of the roles and requirements.

The Scottish Government website references our ways of working and more information can be found here Ways of working - Work For Scotland (work-for-scotland.org)

I refer the member to the answer to question S6W-15725 on 16 March 2023. All answers to written Parliamentary Questions are available on the Parliament's website, the search facility for which can be found at https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/written-questions-and-answers