CHANCE TO QUIZ DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER

Dumfries residents will have the chance to quiz Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, about the Government’s plans for independence, when she visits the area next week.

Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond has given a commitment that over the next four months people across Scotland will be able to put their questions directly to him and his Cabinet colleagues.

Local people will have the opportunity to discuss the future the Scottish Government has set out in detail following a vote for independence on Thursday 18 September this year.

Ms Sturgeon will host the public discussion at Easterbrook Hall, The Duncan Rooms, The Crichton, Bankhead Road, Dumfries, DG1 4TA between 1pm and 2:30pm.

She is keen to hear as many views as possible and will answer questions from members of the audience.

Speaking ahead of the event, Nicola Sturgeon said:

“I am delighted to be hosting a public discussion session in Dumfries.

“This event is part of a series of Scotland-wide events which will see me and colleagues engage with people across the country about the exciting future we envisage following a vote for independence.

“We’ve already put forward our proposals for Scotland’s Future and demonstrated how the powers of independence can be used to build a wealthier and fairer Scotland, but it’s crucial everyone who lives and works in Scotland considers and discusses with others the sort of country they want Scotland to be in the future.

“Taking the referendum conversation out to communities across the country provides an opportunity for us to meet people from a wide range of backgrounds and hear their views on independence, as well as listening to their questions and concerns.

“This is the opportunity of a generation and we want to give as many people as possible across Scotland a platform to ask questions and air their views.

“We want to hear what local people have to say about the type of Scotland they want in the future and I would encourage local residents to come to Easterbrook Hall on Monday July 7.”

As well as the formal Q&A session, Ms Sturgeon will be happy to chat informally to audience members over tea and coffee at the end of the event.

Attendance is free but spaces are limited, so the Scottish Government has asked that those who wish to attend register to do so online by visiting http://scotreferendum.com/events

You can also register by calling 0300 244 2114.

Scotland’s Future: Your Guide to an Independent Scotland can be downloaded here: www.scotreferendum.com