Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Veterans charity visit Scottish Parliament
Monklands MSP Meghan Gallacher hosted representatives of a veterans charity at an event in the Scottish Parliament.
Veterans Community (Lanarkshire) supports veterans in Airdrie and Coatbridge.
Its aim is to provide support and guidance to the whole veterans’ community.
The charity, also known as Vclan, operates a veteran’s community hub in Craigneuk, Wishaw.
The Central Scotland list MSP has been a long-time supporter of the group and the visit provided yet another opportunity to discuss some of the challenges faced by the veteran community.
During the visit, Ms Gallacher listened to concerns surrounding the cost of living crisis and explored options on how MSPS can better support veterans’ groups within their communities.
The visit, which had previously had to be put off due to the restrictions on public visits to the Parliament, also provided an opportunity for the veterans to undertake a tour of the Parliament and witness a live debate taking place in the chamber.
Ms Gallacher said: “I was delighted to be able to welcome Vclan to the Scottish Parliament.
“We discussed a visit a while ago, but it was only possible now due to the changes in social distancing.
“We were able to discuss issues that matter to veterans, with many local issues being raised such as cost of living and what more MSPS can do to support our veteran community.
“In addition, the group were able to enjoy a tour and some time in the chamber to watch a debate.
“I hope they all had a wonderful day and I look forward to visiting them soon at their hub in Craigneuk.”
Veterans Community Lanarkshire spokeswoman Marina Mcqueer added: “It was a great opportunity for the veterans to visit the Scottish Parliament and see how it all works.
“A big thanks to Meghan and her team for hosting us and continuing to support the Veterans Community Lanarkshire.”