Tributes as former priest who fought for devolution dies at 84
CANON Kenyon Wright, who played a central role in the creation of the Scottish parliament, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by the Scottish Government on behalf of Canon Wright’s family. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she was ‘deeply saddened’ and described Canon Wright as ‘a great loss to Scotland’s political, civic and religious communities’.
Miss Sturgeon added: ‘His input to the creation of the Scottish parliament cannot be overstated.
‘His chairmanship of the Scottish constitutional convention, which led to the creation of the Scottish parliament, was testament to his strength of character, tenacity and charisma. He was able to bring together the different strands of Scottish politics and society to achieve consensus about the way ahead for Scottish devolution. His legacy will live on through the work of the Scottish parliament.’
The former Episcopalian priest was the executive chairman of the Scottish constitutional convention from 1989-99 and a member of the consultative steering group on the Scottish parliament.
He continued to play a role in Scottish politics and voiced concerns over growing centralisation and a restriction of the powers of local councils a decade ago.
He backed a Yes vote in the independence referendum.
The Scottish Government said Canon Wright died peacefully at home on Wednesday. A family funeral is to be held next week, with a memorial service to follow in the next few months.
Former first minister Alex Salmond said: ‘Canon Kenyon Wright was one of the great spirits of the movement of self-government. His role in the Scottish constitutional convention showed a patience, commitment and determination of extraordinary dimensions.
‘In more recent times, his willingness to embrace the independence cause demonstrated that his belief in Scotland transcended any political party or particular position.’
Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale said: ‘For generations to come, there will be a parliament in Edinburgh that makes decisions affecting the everyday lives of Scots, and that is the wonderful legacy he leaves behind.
‘The day before the Scottish parliament opened in 1999, Canon Kenyon Wright handed the Claim of Right to Donald Dewar.
‘That document now resides in the Donald Dewar Room in the Scottish parliament, a fitting reminder of what was achieved by these giants of Scotland’s devolution movement.’