The deputy first minister, Malcolm Chisholm and Patricia Ferguson will be members of the Group.

BBC: McConnell statement in full

Health Minister Malcolm Chisholm said a lot had been done to tackle the issue but added there was no room for complacency.

BBC: Hospitals urged to clean up their act

Mr McConnell was joined by Enterprise Minister Nicol Stephen and Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm at the launch of the plan in Greenock.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Scotland | Makeover for deprived urban areas