Political leaders unite to praise Christmas workers
Scotland's political leaders have united to thank those who will be working over the Christmas period.
Scotland's political leaders have united to thank those who will be working over the Christmas period.
Ruth Davidson, Kezia Dugdale and Willie Rennie paid tribute to people who will spend the festive period at work rather than with their families.
They also reflected on a turbulent political year and urged Scots to pay special attention to the elderly, bereaved and lonely this Christmas.
Ms Davidson, Scottish Conservative leader, said: “I'd like to single out one particular group of people this Christmas - and that's those people who are going to be working over the Christmas weekend.
“First and foremost that's the NHS staff, police and emergency services who give up time with their own families in order to make sure ours are safe.
“It's also the assistant at the 24-hour petrol station, the pot washer in the hotel kitchen and the delivery worker on night shift who are out there this weekend, earning a living, keeping the country ticking over. Doing their jobs so we can enjoy our break.
“Often the work they do goes unnoticed or is taken for granted. Perhaps it's only at Christmas and new year that the rest of us really see it. So, it's time for a very overdue thank you.”
Scottish Labour leader Ms Dugdale also thanked emergency service workers and others, adding: “Those of us who are fortunate enough to celebrate Christmas with our loved ones should spare a thought for those who won't be so lucky.
“We think in particular of those serving in our armed forces around the world. They risk their lives to secure our freedom all year round.”
She also used her Christmas message to call for divisions in Scottish society to be healed.
Ms Dugdale said: “When our country is facing so many major challenges, now more than ever we need to unite and work together.
“My hope is that by next Christmas we will be more united as a nation and can leave the arguments of the past behind us.”
She added: "Finally, we should keep the people of Syria and other war-torn nations in our thoughts and prayers. The people of Aleppo, in particular, need our support at this horrific time."
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Mr Rennie said: “Our thanks must go out to those who work over Christmas including the emergency services who keep us safe.
“Our thoughts are with those who are unwell, alone or struggling. And our appreciation is with those who come to their aid.
“However, there is little doubt we are in a more uncertain and dark place in global affairs.
“The election of President Trump and the decision to sever links with our friends in Europe have taken our society in the wrong direction.
“With attacks in Turkey, the conflict in Yemen, and the war in Syria with its awful reports from Aleppo, it is imperative we do not turn our backs no matter how difficult the challenge.”