Depute leader calls on women to stand for political office

A SPECIAL event to encourage more women to get involved in local and national politics is being held in Lerwick on Saturday.

Organised by the Parliament Project, Scotland Women Stand is a non-partisan event which will be held in the Lerwick Town Hall and virtually linked to a main session in the Scottish Parliament debating chamber.

Participants will hear from a range of speakers, get the chance to pose questions, take part in workshops and build networks with around 400 women from all across Scotland.

Ahead of the event, Shetland North councillor Emma Macdonald has shared her thoughts in a short video that has been provided by Shetland Islands Council. It can be viewed above.

As well as running her own business, Macdonald is also the SIC’s depute leader and chairs the planning committee as well as the integration joint board’s (IJB) audit committee.

She says with the right encouragement and support, getting involved in politics can be tremendously rewarding: “I started off by thinking this maybe wasn’t for me, but I’m so glad I took the decision to stand for election.

“I’ve met some great people and had tremendous support both from my colleagues and staff across the council.

“I’d just say to other women who’d like to take that step but aren’t sure – just go for it, I’m really glad I did.”

Macdonald will be taking part in activities in Holyrood on the day, with SIC chief executive Maggie Sandison facilitating local discussion and workshops at the town hall.

The local event is being held at Lerwick Town Hall from 9.30 am – 3.00 pm on Saturday 7 September.  It is free to women of any (or no) political affiliation, background or age.

Anyone interested in participating must register online here.