McArthur recognises Junior Inter-County athletes in parliament

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur today paid tribute to young athletes from Orkney and Shetland during First Minister’s Questions, following a series of fantastic performances during this year’s Junior Inter-County (JIC) competition over the weekend which saw Orkney successfully retaining the Stuart Cup.

Mr McArthur also took the opportunity to call on the Scottish Government to restate its ongoing support for the International Island Games taking place in Orkney in 2025.

In her response, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, who was standing in for the First Minsiter, said she had “no hesitation” in congratulating the competitors from Orkney and Shetland for their achievements, and welcomed the opportunity provided by the Island Games for island athletes to compete on the international stage.

Orkney’s MSP also lodged a motion in parliament earlier this week congratulating Orkney’s young athletes on their performances at the JIC, including the momentous victory of Orkney’s swimmers who got the upper hand on their Shetland rivals in the pool for the first time in 27 years.

Commenting afterwards, Mr McArthur said:

“In the midst of an election campaign, it was good to be able to bring MSPs across parties together in offering congratulations to the young athletes from Orkney and Shetland who competed over the weekend.

“While I’m delighted, of course, that Orkney came out on top to retain the Stuart Cup, it was right that the Deputy First Minister and parliament recognised the contribution made by both squads as well as the coaches and volunteers.

“Junior Inter County really is unique in the way in allows young athletes from Orkney and Shetland to compete hard while also forming bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime.

“I’m also grateful to the Deputy First Minister for confirming the Scottish Government’s ongoing support for the International Islands Games, due to take place in Orkney next year. That support has been vital in helping Orkney 2025 organisers prepare for what will be a memorable games.

“No doubt, many of those athletes competing last weekend will already be looking forward to stepping up to the international stage next year. However, there are plenty of ways in which people across Orkney can get involved and I would encourage anyone interested to get in touch with the organisers to find out more”.