Inverness to discuss Scotland's future

3rd June 2014

Culture and External Affairs Secretary to host question session in the city.

Those who live, work and study in Inverness will have a chance to quiz Culture and External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop about the government's plans for independence when she visits the city next week.

The Cabinet Secretary will host a public discussion at Merkinch Community Centre on Thursday June 5, from 13.00 - 14.30.

The free event will give local people an opportunity to discuss the future the Scottish Government has set out in detail in its white paper ‘Scotland's Future’ following a vote for independence in this September’s historic referendum.

The public discussion forms part of the First Minister Alex Salmond’s commitment that between now and the referendum, people across Scotland will be able to put their questions directly to him and his Cabinet colleagues.

This will be the fourth public meeting hosted by Ms Hyslop and is one of more than 30 sessions that have been held by Scottish Ministers this year.

Ms Hyslop is keen to hear as many views as possible and will answer questions from members of the audience.

Speaking ahead of the event, Fiona Hyslop said:"Independence offers great opportunities for the Highlands and I look forward to returning to Inverness to hear local views on Scotland’s Future.

"This is part of a series of Scotland-wide events which will see me and my colleagues engage with people across the country about the successful, wealthier and fairer future we can build following a vote for independence.

“The Scottish Government has already put forward its proposals for Scotland’s future and demonstrated how the powers of independence can be used to build a more prosperous and equal Scotland. It’s crucial that everyone who lives and works in Scotland takes the time to consider and discuss with others the sort of country they want Scotland to be in the future.

“Taking the referendum conversation out to communities across the country provides an opportunity for us to meet people from many different backgrounds and hear their views on independence, as well as listening to their questions and concerns.

“This is the opportunity of a generation and we want to give as many people as possible across Scotland the chance to ask questions and air their views.

“I’m asking local people to come and have their say about the type of Scotland they want in the future and I would encourage the people of Inverness to come to Merkinch Community Centre, ask their questions and have their say next Thursday.

As well as the formal Q&A session, Ms Hyslop will be happy to chat to audience members over tea and coffee at the end of the event.

Attendance is free but spaces are limited, so the Scottish Government has asked attendees to register in advance, either online at: http://scotreferendum.com/events/ or by calling 0300 244 2114

Scotland’s Future: Your Guide to an Independent Scotland is available at: www.scotreferendum.com