Publised date : 26 Feb 2019
Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has today welcomed a Scottish Parliament motion marking the centenary of Hamish Henderson’s birth.
Henderson, who was born in Blairgowrie, is one of the most influential Scots of the past century. A noted poet, war hero, gay rights activist, musician and lecturer, he was also one of the artists who made such a contribution to press for the re-establishment of the Scottish Parliament. Hamish passed away in 2002 at the age of 82.
The motion, put forward by Joan McAlpine MSP (SNP), is further recognition for Hamish Henderson’s contributions to Scotland. It comes just three months after his birthplace of Blairgowrie hosted its annual Hamish Matters Festival – a weeklong celebration of Hamish’s life and achievements.
Commenting, Mr Swinney said:
“I am delighted that the contributions of Hamish Henderson are to be formally recognised by the Scottish Parliament.
“It is a source of enormous pride for Blairgowrie, and Perthshire as a whole, that one of Scotland’s greatest sons was born locally. Hamish’s contributions go beyond merely his vocations and interests. He was not simply a poet, a solider or an intellectual – rather, he was a figure who fundamentally altered the tapestry of our nation. Scottish culture has been enriched thanks to the influence of Hamish, and we are a better nation for his work.
“Although my role as a Government minister means that I am unable to formally support a motion, I pay tribute to Joan McAlpine for her work to honour the legacy of Hamish Henderson. I am confident that the deep admiration that is felt across the nation for Hamish will be reflected in Parliament’s backing of this motion.”
