Ahead of a week of activity marking ten years since Scotland’s independence referendum, SNP Leader John Swinney has said the anniversary is a chance for Scotland to “reflect on what real empowerment looks like”.
The First Minister will lead several events throughout the week to mark the occasion and will vow that independence would be “transformational” to Scotland.
Commenting ahead of the anniversary, John Swinney said:
“Exactly ten years ago, the streets of Scotland were truly buzzing.
“Countless grassroots campaign groups, and people who in some cases had been disengaged with the political process for years, were out taking part in a lively and exciting debate about our country’s future.
“As we mark the anniversary of the referendum, we have a chance to reflect on what real empowerment looks like.
“The astonishing 85% turnout on that day speaks for itself – we all want the best for our country, and when you give people a real say over their future, they want their voice to be heard.
“The opportunities offered by the powers of independence are just as transformational as they were ten years ago.
“All around us, independent countries similar to Scotland are doing much better than the UK – they’re wealthier, they’re fairer and they’re happier, with more investment and less poverty.
“They’re able to make decisions that match their strengths and best suit their circumstances.
“By contrast, the last decade has also demonstrated how Scotland is damaged by decisions taken for us.
“Years of Tory austerity, the Brexit we didn’t vote for and disastrous decisions like Liz Truss’s mini-budget are all taking their toll on our living standards, our economy and our public services.
“No one will take better decisions about Scotland’s future than the people who live here.
“Like many others, I was heart-broken by the referendum result, but I am very optimistic about Scotland’s future.
“I know that we have the resources and the talent to overcome any challenges we face – and as First Minister, I am committed to empowering our people and our nation to build a better future for all of us.”
