Students get to work with MSP Derek
Two young people spent the last fortnight doing work experience in the office of MSP Derek Mackay.
Paisley-based Kirsty McIntyre and Duncan Calvert, from Renfrew, each spent a week based in the Renfrewshire North and West MSP’s constituency office, where they learned about the work of Members of the Scottish Parliament.
They got involved in helping Mr Mackay’s staff with local campaigns and press releases, as well as attending surgeries, visits to Paisley Museum and the recent investment announcement at Westway Business Park in Renfrew.
They also spent time at the Scottish Parliament where they saw Mr Mackay give evidence to committees and a statement to the Parliament’s chamber.
Mr Mackay said:“It has been great working with Duncan and Kirsty, giving them valuable experience as well as helping them with their university and school courses.
“It is wonderful to be able to show young students the internal behind the scenes workings of a busy constituency office, how Parliament operates, and what kind of stuff MSPs and Government ministers get up to on a day to day basis.
“Due to the number of requests I receive, it is not possible to say yes to everyone, however, I always do my best to accommodate as many students who contact me as possible.”
Kirsty, 19, who is a student at UWS, said:“Shadowing Derek was a brilliant opportunity, it gave me a real insight into MSPs work and those who work within their local office.
“It gave me huge confidence as I was meeting with business people and political professionals, making it an unforgettable experience all round.”
Duncan, 17, a fifth-year pupil at St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm, added:“In shadowing Derek, I learned a lot about both national and local politics.
“I gained useful skills and valuable experience and even had the opportunity to visit Holyrood to watch First Minister’s Questions.
“I had a great time and will put my new found knowledge to good use going into the future.”