MSP McAveety praises Scottish Rugby for work in Glasgow communities

Jan 21 2010

SHETTLESTON MSP Frank McAveety hosted a parliamentary reception at Holyrood last week to honour Scottish rugby's work in the community.

Over the past year, Scottish rugby - who own the Glasgow Warriors - has pressed MSPs to take the lead on improving sports facilities in both Glasgow and encouraged local authorities to increse opportunities for young Glaswegians to take up rugby.

The success of the "Cashback for Communities" programme, which delivers free playing and coaching opportunities to young Scots in areas of urban and rural deprivation, was also highlighted as was the £130million boost to the Scottish economy via rugby events.

McAveety said: "Parliament congratulates Scottish Rugby on their recent success and this evening reception is a fitting way for Scottish Rugby to highlight their ongoing and extensive work both on and off the pitch.

"We wish them and the Scotland team the best of luck for their forthcoming Six Nations campaign which kicks off at Murrayfield on February 7 against France."

Scottish Rugby Chief Executive, Gordon McKie, added: "The financial impact of the world-class events held at Murrayfield is well documented.

"A £130 million pound boost to the Scottish economy in 2009 through events at Murrayfield including the Six Nations Championship, Emirates Airline Edinburgh 7s, Murrayfield Magic weekend and the Heineken Cup final have been part of a real success story.

"More however needs to be done by the Scottish Government and MSPs when it comes to improving sports facilities across Scotland and creating opportunities for young people to take up and play the sport.

"We look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders in that regard in the build-up to Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014."

"We are delighted to see so many MSPs attend our reception to celebrate a positive year for Scottish Rugby and would particularly like to pay tribute to the club development officers, clubs and volunteers helping us to achieve a very positive year for Scottish Rugby."