AN MSP has hailed a major cash boost for health services in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, pledging that it will deliver lower waiting times and higher patient satisfaction.

Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur has welcomed an announcement in the Scottish Government budget that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is to receive an extra £69million, compared to last year’s settlement.

The commitment is part of a funding increase of more than £400m across the country, with NHS staff also set to benefit from a decision to end the public sector pay cap.

Mr Arthur said the extra funding would bring significant improvements to local services.

He added: “The SNP in government continues to deliver for our NHS in Renfrewshire South.

“The extra £69million will ensure Scotland continues to have the best performing NHS across the UK – with lower waiting times and higher patient satisfaction.

“Greater Glasgow and Clyde having an extra £69million to play with in the coming year will be transformational for our communities – supporting frontline health care and helping us meet new demands and pressures across primary, community and social care, as well as in mental health.

“And this SNP Scottish Government budget also delivers a pay rise for workers in our NHS – the only part of the UK to make such a commitment – proving that, when it comes to supporting workers in our NHS, only the SNP can be trusted.”

A spokeswoman for NHSGGC welcomed the extra funding.

She said: “This will help our hard-working and dedicated staff continue to deliver safe, quality, patient-centred health and social care to the people of Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

“NHSGGC is working through a well-established planning process to develop and improve patient services while managing the significant demand and cost pressures.”