NEWS RELEASE
23 May 2006 For immediate release
STUC welcomes opening of debate of Scotland's long-term future
The Scottish TUC welcomed the content of the lecture from First Minister, Jack McConnell on Scotland's long-term future along with the publication of the Scottish Strategic Audit.
STUC Deputy General Secretary, Grahame Smith, said:
"The publication of the strategic audit will give a valuable baseline to benchmark and monitor Scotland's social and economic progress over the next decades.
"We welcome the First Minister's commitment to "think big" about Scotland's future and are particularly pleased that tackling economic inequality is still seen as his major priority.
"We also welcome the major emphasis the First Minister placed on education and skills not just as an economic driver but as a route to improving the wider quality of life for Scots of all ages.
"The First Minister was right to refer to the challenges of an ageing population, but it was refreshing to hear of the positive role that can be played by older people in the workplace and as role models in the wider community.
"The STUC looks forward to a productive partnership with the Executive to focus on the potential challenges and opportunities the next two decades will present. I am sure, that in partnership, we can help thousands of Scots achieve their full potential in both work, and life"
ENDS For further information contact Dave Moxham 0141 337 8100