English Speaking Union (Jim Hume)

English Speaking Union

May 31, 2008 10:14 PM
By Jim Hume MSP

Ladies and gentleman I'm delighted to be able to sponsor this event on behalf of the English Speaking Union. Firstly I am Jim Hume MSP for Liberal Democrat South Scotland and an Honorary Vice President of the ESU Scotland. And of course I'd like to thank all those involved in organising it from the parliament event and catering staff, the ESU of course and not forgetting all of you who have come along today. For those of you who have been to the Parliament before, welcome back, and for those of you who are first time visitors - enjoy the building and do spend some time looking at the various pieces of art on the walls and the displays in the public entrance. Your parliament is a parliament to be proud of and I've a sneaking suspicion that some of you may be here in the future and certainly hope so.

Anyway. The English Speaking Union's goal of promoting "international understanding and friendship through the use of the English language" is a worthwhile one. Not only does it create an environment in which our young people can excel in the creativity of the English language, but it also builds confidence and engenders a feeling of personal development and achievement. It also builds international links with youngsters from all over the world - Asia, Africa and Latin America to name a few. I'm sure the Scottish World Champions who won in South Korea last year would concur on that point. And that of course helps with learning about different cultures and make new friends. It's a strange person you cant learn something from.

Last year I was privileged to host the ESU's launch of its 'Debating in Schools' materials right here in Holyrood - a venue fitting of such an event. This was an exciting development and aimed at encouraging more schools and young people to participate in debating competitions through the outreach programme. Since that launch I believe there's been increased interest in debating which goes to show the value of outreach. It was hugely heartening when funding for the second phase was confirmed and the Debating in Schools project can now only go from strength to strength.

I know you'll join me in congratulating the ESU on the success of their continued good work, and wish them every success for the future. It is testament to the innovative thinking and hard work of this charity that so much has been achieved in the last 90 years.

Last but by no means least, I know you'll join me in congratulating all the young people who have taken part in this year's competition, everyone's a winner already, and wish them all the very best for the final and their future debating careers. I am keen to see schools from all regions take part in debating, so John if there's anything I can do to help with your work in that regard, let me know.

Perhaps in the years to come some of these young debaters will revisit Holyrood as its future MSPs and it remains for me to wish you all the best of luck.