Event will celebrate contribution of EU citizens living in Fife

Fife politicians are joining forces to celebrate the contribution of EU citizens.

Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell and North East Fife SNP MP Stephen Gethins are co-hosting a free public event for those living and working locally at 7pm on September 16 in St Andrews’ Parliament Hall.

The event also hopes to address the rights of EU nationals concerned about the impact of Brexit.

There will be presentations from local representatives who have been working to address the issues around the withdrawal process and what this means.

While Brexit looms, the legal certainty regarding the work and residency status of EU citizens remains unresolved.

There are many EU nationals in the area making a vital contribution to academia, tourism, health and social care, and environmental planning and sustainability.

Mr Ruskell said: “EU and international citizens make a huge contribution to the culture, economy and life of communities across the St Andrews area.

“With Britain’s imminent exit of the European Union in disarray, it is important that we both celebrate the contribution these citizens make to our country and support them in upholding their residency status and legal rights.

“The hostile environment being driven by Boris Johnson and his government is attempting to drive a wedge between our communities and threatens the prosperity and diversity that EU membership has brought.

“They are our friends, family and colleagues, we cannot abandon them.”

Mr Gethins added: “I have been contacted by hundreds of constituents concerned about the impact of Brexit and their status and I will continue to do what I can to make sure they feel welcome and their rights are protected.

“People from across the EU as well as from elsewhere enrich our communities and I want them to know they are welcome here.”