Russell flies flag in New York

Apr 29 2009 by Sharon Liptrott, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

SOUTH of Scotland MSP Michael Russell has been flying the flag for the region across the Atlantic.

In his capacity as Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution, he was part of the Scottish Parliament delegation for Tartan Week in New York earlier in the month.

The climax to an event proving more popular every year is a massive parade through the streets of the city, with plenty of pipe bands showcasing their talents.

And the MSP, promoting Scotland to potential American visitors in the Year of the Homecoming 2009, was asked to lead the celebrations in Sixth Avenue with Scottish actor Alan Cumming.

He said: “The Tartan Day Parade is an impressive and touching sign of affinity from the City of New York for Scotland — it shows just how important our shared links are.

“I was honoured to be asked by the National New York Tartan Day Committee to represent the Scottish Government and lead the celebrations along side the presiding officer and renowned actor and Grand Marshall Alan Cumming.

“The message was one of Homecoming as we invited everyone there to visit Scotland and continue the celebrations through 2009.

“Working together through these difficult times is a real priority on both sides of the Atlantic.”

The Tartan Day Parade, in its 11th year, is the largest event celebrating Scottish culture and heritage as well as the contributions of Scottish-Americans, in New York.