We stand ‘shoulder to shoulder’ with unions against discrimination, says Swinney

The Scottish Government stands “shoulder to shoulder” with trade unions against discrimination, Scotland’s First Minister has said.

Speaking ahead of the STUC annual St Andrew’s Day rally in Glasgow, John Swinney announced £200,000 in funding for a new project to promote diversity and tackle discrimination in the workplace through different union-backed initiatives.

Mr Swinney will join STUC general secretary Roz Foyer and other political leaders at the rally on Saturday after leading a march through Scotland’s biggest city.

He said: “St Andrew’s Day reminds us of who we are – a nation of openness, kindness and tolerance. Fostering inclusive and cohesive communities is essential to overcome division and uncertainty.

“The Scottish Government stands shoulder to shoulder with trade unions in the fight against discrimination and inequality.

“That’s why we’re investing up to £200,000 in the United Workplaces Fund to help unions increase awareness in workplaces, undertake training and build links with community organisations.

“This demonstrates our commitment to equality and diversity – core values that underpin each of my priorities for Scotland, tackling poverty, growing the economy, improving public services and advancing net zero.”

Ms Foyer said: “We welcome the attendance of the First Minister at our annual St Andrew’s Day anti-racism march and rally and we’re pleased he will address Scotland’s trade unionists to make clear the need for a united movement against hatred and division.

“St Andrew’s Day is for all. Our march and rally, originally founded to combat the rising tide of far-right activity, continues to grow as working people across Scotland unite together to build tolerant, respectful and inclusive communities throughout the country.

“The newly announced United Workplaces Fund aims to create just that – workplaces and communities of workers that prioritise unity over division and harmony over hatred. We’ll continue in that pursuit and we would invite all those who share in that vision to join us.”