Meeting of the Parliament 27 September 2017
When I was doing my standard grade music short course, that was the answer to one of the questions. I was taught about the Average White Band, but did not live the experience. I would be happy to listen to the Average White Band with Clare Adamson, if that was an invitation. That would be nice.
“A City Beautiful”, which is Simon Kempston’s ode to Dundee, is also well worth a listen. It gives a bit of history of the city and previous issues with it.
While Paisley has Gerard Butler, Dundee has Brian Taylor. Brian Taylor and I share at least three things in common: we both attended Dundee high school, we are Dundee United fans, and we spent much of our formative years on the 12th floor of the Gowriehill multi in the Menzieshill area of Dundee. I can expand on that at a later date.
Paisley has a lot going for it but, like Dundee, it faces challenges. Sadly, it suffers from appalling rates of poverty; for example, a third of the town’s children live in severe deprivation. Winning the title might not seem to be a solution to those problems, but it can help to drive economic benefits. Joan McAlpine made the point that culture creates jobs. I agree with that.
Dundee has much to offer, as does Paisley, and success with the bids should benefit everyone, especially the most vulnerable people. I am delighted to see that the organisers of both committees recognise that and are committed to ensuring that no one is left out.
I believe that the long-term community-minded approach is serving to raise support for both bids. That is a welcome reminder that there is more that unites us than divides us. On that note, I welcome the £10 million funding that the Scottish Government has committed to the Paisley bid. I know that any information on further funding would be appreciated locally.
The next decade has the potential to begin with two of Scotland’s most vibrant centres leading the UK and Europe in culture and the arts. I am pleased to offer my support to the motion.
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