It’s been a rare privilege having the responsibility of being ALBA’s National Equalities Convener for  the last two years.

My tenure began with National Council authorising that I lead a group of dedicated knowledgeable members, several of whom have served or now seek to serve on our NEC. In addition, it was agreed that characteristics we protect in our party would include the social injustices of homelessness, care experience, ill health and poverty.

Behind the scenes I’ve often been humbled by the modest requests of our members for a little support or guidance and hope that I, and the team, have been able to assist and make a tangible difference. I know that some members have been most grateful for the efforts of certain members whom I shall not name – but they know who they are.

Members and others have assisted me in taking to Conference and Council resolutions on Poverty and Inequality, Legal Aid, the rights of the Gypsy Traveller Community, Addictions, Scottish Men’s Sheds Association and Juryless Trials. Thank you to those who have encouraged, contributed and criticised. Our party has untold riches of ability, knowledge and experience in every field of human need and endeavour, and we have friends in every walk of life.

The Equalities Group has drawn together an Equalities Manifesto which will be available soon – it comprises all motions passed by our party which impact on the equality agenda and it reflects the efforts and collaboration of numerous talented, hopeful and determined individuals. 

An NEC position requires attendance at monthly meetings, special meetings and for me Conferences Committee. There have also been contributions to Wee  Alba Book events and speeches at AUOB in Arbroath and Bannockburn, Hope Over Fear and Yestival. Special mention must be made of #WomenWontWheesht and #FifeWitches events, protests at Cornton Vale and Holyrood, party meetings for women and minorities and written contributions to iScot magazine and The National.

There’s a special place in my heart for #Through A Scottish Prism – thank you to Roddy and the team for the laughs, the controversy and the optimism generated each week.

I do hope with every sinew of my being that our new NEC will again comprise those who strive to regain our country’s Independence forthwith and that we remain a party single minded in determination to create a country of opportunity and equality for all.

If you re-elect me as your Equalities Convener that will be an honour; if you decide not to, I will continue to campaign with you and walk beside you as we lead Scotland to the Independence our people so desperately need and deserve.