Yes Arran

With the Independence Referendum just a bit over a year away, YES activists on the island have not been idle. On 17th July, prominent Scottish journalist Dr Ruth Wishart and Jean Urquhart, MSP paused on their way to Islay and Mull.to meet an informal group of Arran people with questions and /or reservations about Independence. There was a stimulating exchange of views. The visitors were seeking to establish a new model for engaging people outside party politics. Their aim was to engage with people as yet undecided, and offer a dialogue and sources of information.

Most of the nations achieving independence in the last half century have had to face violent opposition, rather than the peaceful route via the ballot box that we have been offered. Interestingly, not a single country that has become independent has sought to return to its previous state.

Coming up this month, there will a street presence in Brodick on 7th and 10th August, with opportunities to obtain information and sign the YES Declaration. The 2013 Indy Barbecue takes place at Strathwhillan on Sunday 18th August.

In September, the artists collective ‘AYE’ will be holding a second exhibition, over a two-day period, with details to be announced shortly.

Finally, preparations are being made to offer a return coach trip to Edinburgh for the Independence Rally on Saturday 21st September, connecting with our ferry timetable, for the very reasonable sum of £10. For more details about any of these events contact: yesarran2014@aol.co.uk or visit Yes Scotland Arran on Facebook.

We at the Voice feel it is only fair to offer space to all opinions, so if there is someone out there who would like to contribute a piece in support of a NO campaign, just drop an e-mail to info@voiceforarran.com and we’ll get in touch with you.