KATE FORBES: My pledge to Strathy readers as Scotland’s new Deputy First Minister
My appointment as Scotland’s Deputy First Minister is a moment of extraordinary privilege for me.
Supporting John Swinney as First Minister, and playing such an important role in his Government as Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and Gaelic, is an honour.
It is also a significant responsibility to deliver for all of Scotland and one I do not take lightly.
In my first days as Deputy First Minister, I have spent time engaging with stakeholders from across the country - drilling down on what people need to thrive.
Across these conversations, one thing was clear - the need for a booming economy.
From the tourism sector to manufacturers, we all win when the economy is growing.
Unlocking Scotland’s potential is the key that allows our Government to deliver on our priorities.
That the First Minister has tasked me with supporting economic growth in my portfolio speaks to the significance he places on growth, too.
Our nation is brimming with the brightest minds, bursting with ideas on how to uncover our potential. We must not be afraid to listen to those voices out in the real world, rather than just imposing our views on them.
As an MSP representing a Highland constituency, I know the importance of a strong tourism sector and a Government that acts on the needs of businesses to support that growth.
Tourism contributes more than £4 billion to Scotland’s economy every year, opening up huge opportunities for the sector’s growth to support the wider economy.
I might even be slightly biased but I am confident my constituency plays a pretty substantial part of that - being the most beautiful in the country!
But we have issues to face too - and it is crucial that communities feel the government is on their side when making decisions.
An issue close to my heart is our Gaelic language, and I am delighted that the First Minister has asked me to be Scotland’s first-ever Cabinet Secretary for Gaelic.
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Gaelic is a crucial part of Scotland’s cultural identity, to myself and many of my constituents in the Highlands and Islands.
As a proud Gaelic speaker, I took the oath in Gaelic when I was sworn into the Parliament, and indeed when I was sworn at the Court of Session last week as Deputy First Minister.
I am immensely proud to hold that great responsibility and I look forward to engaging with fellow Gaelic speakers to hear their views on how the Government best preserves this crucially important language.
It speaks to a wider point about our small nation having a vision far beyond its own borders.
Our potential could be unlimited, were it not for the limited powers of devolution.
We could be defeatist about what we cannot control or we can take full advantage of what we do - and I am a persistently positive thinker!
The task ahead is great - but I am ready to take it on.
My only ask is that you hold me to that promise - of delivering for the people of Scotland and building a better country for all.
Kate Forbes is MSP for Badenoch and Scotland’s Deputy First Minister.