St Andrew's Day message
First Minister Jack McConnell:
"St Andrew's Day is a day for Scots around the world to
feel proud. Proud to be Scottish and proud of our country's
many achievements.
"And we have a great deal to be proud of. We are a small
nation, but over the years we have contributed a great deal
to the world - in science and culture, in learning and in
the arts, in medicine and engineering.
"Scotland has produced great entrepreneurs, inventors,
engineers, sportsmen and women, teachers and artists. From
these shores people have gone out into the world and made
their mark - in small ways and in big.
"But today we should also celebrate the achievements of
contemporary Scotland, particularly the tireless work of
local volunteers and community leaders who contribute so
much to daily life.
"St Andrew's Day is also a time to reach out to our many
friends across the nations.
"Over the years, people from many lands have studied,
worked or settled in Scotland. That flow of people, ideas
and talents has benefited all of us - in our past and in
our lives today.
"St Andrew's Day offers us a great opportunity to
capitalise on Scotland's success. It allows us to show how
much we have achieved and what our country has to
offer.
"Above all, today is a day for us to be optimistic about
our future. It is a day to look forward think about the
kind of Scotland we want to live in - and what we are going
to do to build that Scotland.
"I want to build a better Scotland, a nation where we
have growth and opportunity for all, offer a warm welcome
to all who want to live with us and contribute their skills
to build our country's future.
"Around the world, there are many celebrating this
special day with us. We are pleased and proud to send our
warmest wishes to you from the people of Scotland. We value
your friendship and your continuing links with us.
"I wish you a very happy St Andrew's Day."
News Archive