THE introduction of a cruise ship levy and plans for a national care service are high on the agenda as the Scottish Greens gather in Greenock this weekend for the party's autumn conference.  

Supporters are set to gather at Beacon Arts Centre on both Saturday and Sunday to hear what political organisation has planned for the coming months. 

The recent news that the Scottish Government have pledged to introduce a cruise ship levy, which would see local authorities given the power to put a charge on each passenger who stops off in their town or city, is likely to be up for discussion at the event. 

READ MORE: Inverclyde Council leader welcomes cruise ship levy plans

Greens MSP for West Scotland Ross Greer said the party helped push through the introduction of a cruise ship levy, and says he is now keen to hear how people in Inverclyde want proceeds from the so-called 'tourist tax' to be used.

He said: "Our MSPs secured the government's commitment to introduce this new power because we knew how valuable it would be for Inverclyde in particular.

"Now that consultation on the levy has started, we want to hear how people locally would like the proceeds spent.

"This is an important tool to make sure that Inverclyde's residents aren't just left picking up the bill for increased wear and tear of local infrastructure by ship passengers.

"The community should see the full benefits from so many visitors arriving here on cruise ships every year."

The Scottish Greens chose not to field a candidate in the forthcoming Gourock by-election, but did contest the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West seat for the first time in the general election earlier this year.

The Telegraph asked Mr Greer if hosting the conference in Greenock marks the start of the party having more of a presence in Inverclyde. 

Mr Greer said: "Inverclyde and Renfrewshire Greens have made huge progress recently, so hosting our national conference in Greenock felt like the obvious choice.

"We know that lots of people here share our vision of a fairer, greener Scotland.

"That’s demonstrated by our vote going up at each of the last three Scottish Parliament elections.

"The Scottish Greens want to deliver positive change for every community across the country."

One of the topics up for debate will be the Scottish Government's plans for a National Care service. 

An emergency motion backed by Green frontbencher Gillian Mackay says the bill in its current form is 'contrary to Green values'.

Setting up a National Care Service would transfer social care responsibility from councils to a new national body. 

Plans for the new body could collapse if the Greens opt to withdraw their support, as First Minister John Swinney's minority administration is relying on their backing to pass the proposed legislation. 

The Beacon will be closed this weekend to allow for the conference to take place. 

To box office will be open on Saturday and contactable on 01475 723723.