Month: January 2019

Lord Provost: “Much to be proud of”

Edinburgh is a ‘beacon of culture’, says Lord Provost Frank Ross

Speaking in yesterday’s Evening News Lord Provost Frank Ross said: “The last year has given us much to be proud of in Edinburgh. Our city boasts some of the most brilliant minds, universities, colleges and businesses in the world, incredibly talented people and big-hearted citizens who go out of their way to help others. And it has been my privilege to celebrate some shining examples over the past 12 months.

“People who have made huge achievements in their careers and volunteers who make a big (but often unsung) difference to their own communities.

“As Lord Provost, I’m determined to recognise the achievements of our own and this year the search will soon be on for a nominee for the Edinburgh Award 2019. Please don’t miss this opportunity to see someone you admire receive the city’s pride.

“It was certainly with a proud heart that I presented the 2018 accolade to former rugby international Doddie Weir in November. On and off the rugby pitch, Doddie has been an inspiration to many people in the city and he has raised much-needed awareness for MND research. Recognising all that he achieved on behalf of the city was certainly a highlight of my year.

“Another was presenting the highest honour the city can bestow, the Freedom of the City, to Airforce Squadron 603 in July and it astonishes me that it has taken so long for us to recognise their bravery. In a year marking the centenary of the First World War Armistice, in my role of Veterans Champion I invited the Squadron to receive the award at the City Chambers before they marched down the Royal Mile to be received by the Queen.

“It came just weeks after thousands marched through the city’s streets in commemoration of another important centenary – women’s right to vote.

“Then, just last month, I opened a major conference for Edinburgh, Eurocities, which saw mayors from all over the continent, and our twin city Dunedin, meet at the EICC to discuss how all our cities can collaborate and share knowledge in the face of Brexit and beyond.

“It was humbling that despite the uncertainty 2019 brings, thanks to our incredible people and our position as a capital city, these European mayors believe that Edinburgh is a key player in the Eurocities network and the wider world.

“For 25 years now we have hosted one of the world’s best New Year’s Eve celebrations and last night’s events were no exception. I think the festivities, featuring musicians, street performers and partygoers from all corners of Europe and the world, set just the right tone for how we’ll enter 2019.

“Our Capital is international and outward looking and we’re proud of our citizens and welcome our visitors. We celebrate our reputation as the Festival Capital of the world – we will always be a beacon of culture.

“Happy New Year.”

Start strong this New Year

New Year’s resolutions, which often involve focusing on weight-loss, are as notorious as Hollywood marriages as far as lasting commitment goes.  Yet if you move the focus away from dieting to mental wellbeing and focus on starting the year right by using exercise to feel good, you’re more likely to stick to your goals, says Edinburgh’s leading leisure and sport provider. Continue reading Start strong this New Year

Sleeping Beauties: January Garden Plants of the Month

When the whole garden is still sleeping, dogwood (Cornus), Viburnum and redvein enkianthus (Enkiathus) with their attractive, sometimes coloured branches and eye-catching lines still put on a good show in winter, particularly with a coating of rime or snow.
And although these sleeping beauties appear to be resting, there’s lots going on inside these plants that manifests themselves faster than you think: they’re early bloomers that offer beauty during all four seasons. 

Continue reading Sleeping Beauties: January Garden Plants of the Month

Scottish Cabinet papers released

Files from 2003 now open to the public

Files opened for the first time at National Records Scotland (NRS) show details of Scottish Cabinet discussions in 2003.

The records cover the Scottish Parliament elections which saw Jack McConnell return as First Minister. Included in these files are discussions by the Labour/Liberal Democrat Cabinet about striking firefighters, regeneration of the Clyde waterfront and the potential domestic impact of the Iraq War.

The papers are made available to the public as part of the Scottish Government’s proactive commitment to releasing archived records after 15 years.

Welcoming the latest releases, Paul Lowe, Chief Executive of NRS and Keeper of the Records of Scotland, said: “These records are important for our understanding of our recent history as well as the fabric of our society.

“Preserving our records and making them available to the wider public is one of the most important aspects of our work here at the National Records of Scotland.

“It’s fascinating to see the range of important issues covered in 2003 ranging from discussions on civil partnerships to child protection and cultural policy in Scotland.”

Minister for Parliamentary Business and Veterans Graeme Dey said: “The vast resource of information that’s been made available for members of the public to view at the NRS, as well as the wealth of documents which have been published on our website, shows the Scottish Government’s commitment to openness and transparency.

“I am sure that these newly opened files will make for fascinating reading.”

Information on the files is available on the NRS website.

nrs-2019-file-release-list

 

“Optimism and Hope”: Prime Minister’s New Year Message

In a video message to the country on New Year’s Day, Prime Minister Theresa May said: “New Year is a time to look ahead and in 2019 the UK will start a new chapter. The Brexit deal I have negotiated delivers on the vote of the British people and in the next few weeks MPs will have an important decision to make. If Parliament backs a deal, Britain can turn a corner. Continue reading “Optimism and Hope”: Prime Minister’s New Year Message