REFUGEES WELCOME: JOHNSTONE URGES ACTION FOLLOWING SUMMIT
Alison Johnstone, Scottish Green MSP for Lothian, today attended a summit chaired by the First Minister in response to the refugee crisis in southern Europe.
The summit in Edinburgh brought together groups including charities and local authorities to discuss what Scotland can do to help.
Alison Johnstone MSP said:
"3,000 people lost their lives trying to cross the Mediterranean last year but only now are we waking up to the tragedy on our doorstep. I was pleased to take part in today's summit in Edinburgh where it was made clear that Scotland wants to play a serious role in helping those fleeing horrendous situations in the Middle East and Africa.
"I was impressed by the clear unity at today's meeting. We are a welcoming nation, and there is a strong voice across Scottish society determined to offer asylum and create safe routes for travel. Those gathered today in no way underestimate the scale of the challenge ahead, but the message was clear, Scotland wants to help and will find ways to help."