Orcadian Column, 3rd July 2025
The Scottish Parliament went into recess last week ahead of what is set to be a busy summer. The period leading up to summer recess can often feel quite frantic, not least as the government scrambles to keep its legislative programme on track. This year was no exception with the final days of term taken up with lengthy Stage 3 proceedings on the Education (Scotland) Bill.
The Bill abolishes the Scottish Qualifications Authority, following serious criticism of the SQA’s handling of exams in recent years, dating back to the pandemic. In the end, the creation of a successor body seems more modest than originally promised by Ministers, who have struggled to convince opposition parties and the sector that the reforms match the scale of the task. Even so, over 300 Stage 3 amendments seemed excessive and inevitably led to parliament sitting late into the night on Tuesday and Wednesday before the Bill was finally approved.
Thankfully, though, that’s me now back home for a couple of months, albeit it looks like being the busiest summer since I was first elected in 2007, starting with the International Island Games which get underway a week on Saturday. Having been fortunate enough to attend a few previous Island Games, I’m hugely excited at the prospect of Orkney finally hosting the multisport competition. Picking up my bright orange volunteer uniform and accreditation pass at the BB Hall in Kirkwall on Friday, it was clear to see how excitement, mixed with a little nervousness, are building.
For those who haven’t experienced a Games before, you are in for a treat, as well as perhaps a bit of a shock at the scale of the event. The bringing together of so many islanders makes for a unique atmosphere and not for nothing are these known as the Friendly Games. I have no doubt at all that Orkney will rise to the occasion and showcase the best of ourselves and our islands.
On a personal level, I’m proud to be part of the contingent of football referees, which also includes some excellent young referees from across Scotland. Orkney has a decent draw in both the men’s and women’s competition so hopefully they can do themselves justice.
I’m also looking forward to cheering on my niece, Emily who is representing Orkney in the women’s 400m and 800m. After breaking her leg earlier this year, Emily has made a phenomenal recovery and I can’t wait to see her compete again at this level following her stand-out performances in Guernsey two years ago.
In truth, though, there is so much to look forward to across all twelve sports. Indeed, the variety is part of what makes this competition so special. Ultimately, however, as important as the sport undoubtedly is, this week is about making memories and friendships, so make sure you throw yourself in and make the most of it.
Once the dust has settled on the Island Games, and sticking with the sporting theme, I’ll be out for the Westray Regatta at the end of the month. Celebrating its centenary, the Regatta promises to be another memorable occasion, although I will be staying firmly on dry land, while providing encouragement to my wife, Tamsin and the others taking part.
From Westray to Sanday, then, as the agricultural shows get underway. This is always a great week for catching up with folks and taking the temperature within the local farming community. Farmers and crofters have a lot on their plate at the moment, from land reform and ‘enhanced greening’ requirements to the ongoing controversy over tax changes and international trade agreements so there should be no lack of issues to discuss around the livestock pens.
Either side of show week, I hope to spend a bit of time ‘island hopping’. Getting out to the isles to hold advice surgeries is one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job. Even if no-one shows up to the surgery, there’s always the chance of making a few ‘house calls’ and seeing what’s on folks’ minds. Visitors to Orkney pay good money to be able to ‘hop’ between islands. I’m lucky to have it as part of my job description.