Jamie McGrigor, Highlands & Islands Conservative MSP, has tabled a motion congratulating the winners of the National Final of the English Speaking Union (ESU) Scotland’s Juniors’ Debating Competition 2012-13.
Two pupils from Douglas Academy, Milngavie, triumphed at the competition final, which involved four secondary schools and was held in the Scottish Parliament at an event hosted by Jamie this week.
Jamie, who is a Vice-President of ESU Scotland, was also a member of the judging team for this final. In all 119 schools throughout Scotland took part in the national competition.
Speaking today, Jamie said:
“I was honoured to act as the host at the Scottish Parliament this week for the National Final of the English Speaking Union (ESU) Scotland’s Juniors’ Debating Competition 2012-13.
“The level of debating skills demonstrated by the pupils from the four school finalists was extremely impressive.
“I pay tribute to ESU Scotland and all those who support its work.
"It is so important for our young people to be able to speak in public and develop and present arguments effectively. I hope that many more schools throughout Scotland will become involved in future ESU Scotland competitions".
The following is a copy of Jamie’s motion, as tabled in the Scottish Parliament yesterday evening:-
Motion Number: S4M-07848
Lodged By: Jamie McGrigor
Date Lodged: 26/09/2013
Title: Congratulations to the Winners of the English-Speaking Union Scotland’s Junior Debating Competition 2012-13 National Final
Motion Text:
That the Parliament congratulates Lorna Stillie and Rosie Duthie from Douglas Academy in Milngavie on winning the English-Speaking Union (ESU) Scotland’s Junior Debating Competition 2012-13 national final; notes that the national final competition took place in the Parliament's committee room 2 on 25 September 2013; further notes that three other school teams were in the final, the High School of Dundee, George Watson’s College, Edinburgh and St Columba’s School, Kilmacolm; is of the view that the quality of debating demonstrated by the four teams of finalists was exceptionally high; understands that 119 school teams from across Scotland took part in the competition; commends all those pupils and teachers who took part in the competition, and pays tribute to the ESU Scotland for the work that it does in schools to encourage debating and public speaking, which are considered important skills for young people.