Meeting of the Parliament 05 February 2026 [Draft]
I do. It also underlines something that is true for Rutherglen as well as the rest of Scotland, which is that, in the fabric of our communities, what happens in them is also outward facing: our communities look to other places in the world.
All members in the debate drew attention to the importance of volunteers, Scotland’s third sector and those who have contributed to Rutherglen’s public life over the years through community-led activities, festivals and events. As we have heard, Rutherglen shines as a great example of the community working together to honour its rich history and bright future by creating a programme for a wonderful year of celebrations, led by the community, with events ranging from heritage to the arts, wellbeing, environmental and sporting activities, and much else besides. Thousands of Scotland’s cultural and arts groups rely on dedicated volunteers, whose time and effort make those events so successful. It is great to see celebrations bringing together people, organisations, schools and volunteers across Rutherglen, and it is nice that so many people were recognised across the chamber for having made a contribution.
Speaking on behalf of the Scottish Government, we value the significant contribution that volunteers make to cultural activity in our communities. The vast majority of community-level cultural initiatives are driven by committees of dedicated volunteers, and many community-based cultural events rely on the practical support of volunteers to succeed. I add my voice to those around the chamber who have put that on the record during the debate.
I have been struck by the range of events that are on the programme for Rutherglen 900 and that are already under way. Edinburgh celebrated its 900thanniversary two years ago. Although I am the member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Central, no competition is implied with my colleague Clare Haughey, who led the debate. Rutherglen and Edinburgh became royal boroughs at about the same time, and I have some experience of what can be done with a 900th anniversary. I have taken the time to have a look at the programme of events in Rutherglen this year, and there is something for absolutely everyone. Mention has already been made—and I will add my pointer to it—that there is an amazing amount of information on the Rutherglen 900 website. If anyone who is listening to or watching this debate wants to know what is on and when, I urge them to visit that website, as all the information is there. I think that I am right in saying that the web address is rutherglen900.com.
The variety of what is on offer and the enthusiasm behind it reflect a key strength of the community. As we have heard, the Rutherglen 900 project held a successful launch event at Rutherglen town hall on 29 January, which was only a few days ago. The launch featured live bagpipe playing, historic photographs, school artwork and the debut of the “Song of Rutherglen”, which was performed by local children from all 10 primary schools. It also included an appearance by Dougie the pigeon, the newly designed town mascot. [Interruption.] Let the record show that there was whooping in the chamber at the mention of Dougie the pigeon.
Another success was the sold-out performance of “Bloom”, a mixture of dance, music and video projections, which was part ceilidh and part Japanese dance, reflecting the diversity of the Rutherglen community. The performance was described as “beautiful” and “mesmerising”. I also note the 900 origami peace cranes, which is a novel art project that was developed by the rotary club of Rutherglen and women from the Nurture Educational and Multicultural Society in Cambuslang. The cranes represent peace, hope, harmony, community and future happiness.