Covid-19 is changing the way we do politics beyond all recognition.
In many ways, social distancing is forcing us to catch up with other workplaces that have been using technology to good effect for ages.
Compared to the heroic sacrifices we are seeing across the country by those on the frontline, MSPs adjusting to homeworking and video conferencing is hardly worth a mention.
What matters, however, is that we are still representing our constituents and playing our full part in the national collective effort against coronavirus.
Because now more than ever, governments and opposition politicians like myself need to answer to the public. It isn’t too dramatic to say that during a pandemic accountability can save lives.
Today, with eight other MSPs, I’m taking part in the first meeting of Holyrood’s new COVID-19 Committee. Our job is to examine and report on the Scottish Government’s response to the crisis.
We’ll consider how well the emergency powers are working and take evidence on what an exit strategy might look like.
MSPs from all parties are involved. In the days and weeks ahead, we’ll need to show we can work effectively in a committee when we’re not under one roof.
We have a huge responsibility to scrutinise the government’s plans and decisions while avoiding political point-scoring. We all have a stake in the government pursuing the best possible approach.
Lennon is Labour's Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport, and an MSP for Central Scotland
