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Canavan Becomes President

11 March 2007

News release

One of Scotland’s longest serving parliamentarians, Dennis Canavan MSP, has become President of Ramblers’ Association Scotland. Elected President at this weekend’s annual meeting of the Ramblers, held in Dunblane, Dennis Canavan said:

“I am delighted to take on this new role with the Ramblers. Physical exercise and enjoying the outdoors has always been a key part of my life and I greatly welcome the opportunity to help the Ramblers in their efforts to promote walking for everyone, as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.”

Commenting on the campaigning work of the Ramblers, Dennis Canavan said:

“The Ramblers are a major force in protecting the outdoor environment and securing public access for all. As a member of the Scottish Parliament I have valued working with the Ramblers to help deliver a world-class national parks system and right to roam legislation. I hope, through my Ramblers’ role, to continue to help the people of Scotland meet the challenges of the future.”

Commenting on Dennis Canavan’s election, Alison Mitchell, Convener of Ramblers’ Association Scotland said:

“ We really value the political and outdoor experience which Dennis will bring to the RA. Few politicians complete their career with such a high reputation. No wonder First Minister, Jack McConnell MSP described Dennis as “a man of integrity and honesty and a great parliamentarian who has made an outstanding contribution to Scotland and our national life”. We look forward to working with Dennis across all the issues that we have identified in our “Manifesto for the Outdoors”.”

Standing down as President at this year’s annual meeting was Cameron McNeish, outdoor writer and broadcaster, who has completed six years as RA Scotland President. He will continue helping the Ramblers following his election this weekend as a Vice President. Alison Mitchell commented:

“Cameron has been a giant in raising the Ramblers media profile during his years as President. With Cameron and Dennis working together on a future campaigns I am sure the Ramblers are going to go from strength to strength as one of Scotland’s leading voluntary environmental organisations.”

ENDS