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First Minister Shadows A Volunteer To Mark The International Year Of The Volunteer 2001
22/02/2001
Scottish Executive Ministers are out in force this week to pay tribute to the thousands of people who volunteer throughout Scotland.
The First Minister is one of ten Ministers who are shadowing volunteers to mark the UN International Year of the Volunteer 2001.
Today Mr McLeish met with Hibs and Hearts players taking part in a volunteering football challenge. The challenge had been set up by the Rainbow Hailers FC, an initiative of the Wester Hailes Multicultural Welfare Project.
Mr McLeish said:
"I am delighted to be here to promote and celebrate the work of volunteers. Volunteering is one way to tackle the problems of social exclusion. I believe that by working in their community, volunteers can help develop more responsive services that meet the specific needs of local people.
"I am impressed with the work of the Rainbow Hailers FC to use football as a way to promote racial harmony and tolerance.
"The idea is simple and effective. What better way to tackle discrimination that to bring together young people from different ethnic minority backgrounds in West Edinburgh to play football."
Reginald Agu, who organises the team, was asked about his experience of volunteering and how he fits it into his schedule.
He said:
"I have gained a lot of experience from my voluntary work in Wester Hailes. I can contribute ideas that can be developed by the staff. I believe in team work.
"No doubt I am a busy person, like any other person, but success can only be achieved when there is a conducive environment to operate. Everyone works effectively together."
Mr McLeish concluded:
"This week has demonstrated that there is now a wealth of volunteering opportunities. I hope that during the International Year of Volunteer even more Scots take up the challenge to give something back to their communities."
The United Nations General Assembly has designated 2001 as IYV to enhance the recognition of volunteer action world-wide.
Other Ministers are involved in activities ranging from packing convoy trucks with overseas aid to painting the homes of people who have experienced homelessness.
BACKGROUND
- The First Minister hosted a reception at Edinburgh Castle earlier this month to launch IYV2001.
- An IYV2001 Committee has been set up to oversee a series of events being held in Scotland to promote the social and economic value of volunteering. The Scottish Executive has made £100,000 available to support IYV2001. A further £175,000 will be made available next year.
- Details on volunteering and IYV2001 are available on the website: www.scotland.gov.uk/society/volunteer and from the freephone number: 0800 015 1511.
For further details on Wester Hailes Representative Council or the volunteer Reginald Agu please contact: Andy Milne on 0131 442 3202.
News Release: SE0438/2001
22 Feb 2001