Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown and First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney MSP
have met with local charity, Ukrainian Community Group (UCG) South Ayrshire
to discuss their concerns and hear of the ongoing challenges Ukrainians face.
The group is run by local volunteers who provide a safe community space in
Ayr for over 350 Ukrainians who have had to re-settle in South Ayrshire due to
Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
Those attending travelled to Edinburgh on Thursday 27 February 2025 and
were treated with a tour of the parliament and had the opportunity to attend
First Minister’s Questions. On the week of the third anniversary of the invasion
of Ukraine, the First Minister took the opportunity in the chamber to reiterate
Scotland stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine.
Commenting on the visit, Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown said:
“It was a pleasure to welcome a group of Ukrainian residents from South
Ayrshire who have now settled into life in Scotland, to our national parliament.
“It’s now three years on since Russia’s illegal invasion and Scotland has and will
continue to stand with Ukraine. Everyday life has changed for Ukrainians who
have had to flee the war, and it will never be the same. The community hub in
Ayr allows the group to re-connect with other Ukrainians and keep their
culture alive.
“Since 2022, more than 28,000 Ukrainian refugees have been welcomed into
Scotland with open arms. As a nation, we have provided many refugees with a
safe place to call home.”
