JENNY GILRUTH MSP BACKS PLANS FOR INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

Published date : 08 Nov 2018

Jenny Gilruth, MSP for Mid Fife & Glenrothes has given her backing to proposals that will deliver a more inclusive education system by improving the experiences of LGBTI pupils.

Since last year the Scottish Government have been working closely with the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) Campaign to promote an inclusive approach to sex and relationships education, while tackling LGBTI bullying and discrimination in our schools.

Scotland’s Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary, John Swinney MSP, this afternoon confirmed the Scottish Government will fully accept the recommendations of a report by the LGBTI Inclusive Education Working Group, who were tasked with taking the TIE pledges forward.

The report outlines 33 recommendations on how the learning experience of LGBTI young people in Scotland can be improved. A team has been charged with implementing the proposals by the end of the current Parliamentary term.

The Scottish Government have already funded over £983,000 to organisations working to promote LGBTI equality in Scotland during the 2018/19 period.

A cross-party group of MSPs met to celebrate the announcement, wearing rainbow ties in support of Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign.

Following her own question to the Deputy First Minister on this issue, Jenny Gilruth MSP said –

“Today marks a historic milestone in the ongoing drive for equality across Scotland. I am proud to stand in solidarity with our LGBTI community to ensure young people across Mid Fife and Glenrothes receive the inclusive education they deserve.

“During Scotland’s Year of Young People, it is fitting for this SNP Government to send a strong message of inclusivity, tolerance and respect to younger generations.

“Offensive, out-dated views have no place in [Area], and the Scottish Government is clear that any form of bullying or discrimination in our society will not be tolerated.

“I am proud that Scotland consistently tops international rankings for performance on LGBTI rights. And I will continue to push for equality in [Area] and throughout Scotland.”

ENDS

Local Reporters, Glenrothes Gazette, St Andrews Citizen, Courier (Fife), JUSTICE, CHARITIES