UNION TO HOST INDEPENDENCE DEBATE IN CASTLE DOUGLAS
NFU Scotland will be hosting a panel of high-profile speakers as it continues its roadshow of independence debates at an event in Dumfries and Galloway on Tuesday 29 July.
Members, friends and family, and all voters with an agricultural interest who are based in the region are welcome to attend the event.
The debate, hosted by NFUS Dumfries and Galloway region at Walletts Marts, will be chaired by Dumfries and Galloway Regional Board Chairman, Andrew McCornick.
With the referendum on independence a mere two months away, the Union is stepping up its efforts to involve the farming community in the debate, and allow those on either side of the independence question an opportunity to convey their ideas for Scotland’s future to members across the country.
Speaking in support of Scottish independence will be Alyn Smith MEP, substitute member of European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development; Dr Aileen McLeod, MSP for South Scotland and Neale McQuistin, Farming for Yes.
Those speaking for the Better Together campaign will be Alex Fergusson MSP, Scottish Conservatives spokesman for Rural Affairs and Environment; George Lyon, former MEP and chairman of Rural Better Together campaign, and Joan Mitchell, Rural Better Together.
Each will deliver a key note address before the floor is opened up for a question and answer session with the audience.
Andrew McCornick, NFU Scotland’s Regional Chairman for Dumfries and Galloway, who is chairing the event commented: “We are delighted to be bringing the debate to the region, especially with this panel of heavyweights who will bring much insight and experience to the discussion.
“I look forward to hearing a range of questions and concerns from the floor on the night, and encourage as many Dumfries and Galloway members to attend as possible, so they can address the issues that matter most to them in the referendum.”
NFU Scotland’s Parliamentary Officer, Clare Slipper, commented: “This debate is hot on the heels of very successful events we’ve held in Stirling, the Borders, Fife, Perthshire, Aberdeenshire and the Highlands since the start of this year.
“Whilst NFU Scotland does not take a stance on the referendum, some fascinating issues and questions have been raised during our series of independence debates so far.
“As we edge closer to referendum day, the debate has really stepped up, and these events provide a fantastic platform for members and the wider rural community to put questions to those representing both campaigns.”
• The debate will take place on Tuesday 29 July, 6.30pm for 7pm, in Wallets Mart, New Market Street, Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 1HY.
• Those interested in attending should contact Clare Slipper at NFU Scotland on 0131 472 4182 or [email protected].
