The 25th anniversary of both the Scottish Parliament and of Holyrood magazine gives us an opportunity to reflect on what devolution has done to change Scotland. How far we have come in solving some of those seemingly inextricable problems like deep-seated poverty, drug deaths and inequality, sometimes feels like not far enough, but there is also much to celebrate, not least that we walk a bit taller, talk a bit louder about our achievements, and understand that we have substantial powers to do something for ourselves.
To mark this historic moment, for both Holyrood magazine and its namesake institution, we will be publishing a special commemorative issue and celebrating with a drinks reception on 19th June at the Fruitmarket Gallery in Edinburgh. The reception will feature a panel discussion with former first ministers, as well as lively ‘then and now’ conversations between current and past portfolio ministers.
First panel: Former First Ministers – Mandy Rhodes will be joined by several of Scotland’s former first ministers for a panel discussion about 25 years of devolution
· Rt Hon Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland, 2007-2014 · Rt Hon Henry McLeish, First Minister of Scotland, 2000-2001 · Rt Hon Lord Wallace of Tankerness KC, Acting First Minister, 2000 & 2001
Second panel: ‘Then and now’ – Conversations between current and past ministers, as they compare and contrast achievements in government over the last 25 years. (Chaired by Mandy Rhodes)
· Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic · Jenni Minto MSP, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health · Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity · Malcolm Chisholm, Former Minister for Health and Community Care (2001-2004) · Ross Finnie, Former Minister for Rural Development (1999-2007) · Sarah Boyack MSP, Former Minister for Transport (1999-2001)
And because we all love kicking about the usual political footballs, the reception will be capped off by a special live viewing of Scotland’s European Championship match against Switzerland, with guests invited to stay and watch the match on our big screen. Popcorn provided!
We hope you can join us for what will be a memorable evening of psephology, football and bar room philosophy as we reflect on what devolution has done for Scotland.
The event is by invitation only. To register your interest please contact us using the form below.
