Rhoda Grant MSP

MSP backs report into future of Scottish football

26 April 2010

Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant has backed the publication of Henry McLeish’s report into the future of Scottish football.

The report highlighted the need to improve facilities for youngsters and urged the SNP Government to play its role in getting children involved in sport.

Mrs Grant said: "I support the findings of this report as the more children we can get interested in playing the national game the better it will be for the nation’s health.

"Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Ross County, who are both enjoying major success this season, have excellent youth training programmes.

"Even if the youngsters involved don’t progress to the first team they learn the importance of keeping themselves fit and healthy."

She added: "I want to see the SNP start by doing much more to deliver on their manifesto pledge to provide children with two hours of physical education every week by specialist teachers.

"PE is a hugely important part of the school curriculum and it encourages children to adopt healthy lifestyles.

"Ministers should also look at what can be done to give youngsters free access to council sports facilities."