ALBA's Christmas Message from Neale Hanvey

Below is ALBA's Christmas Message from our Depute Leader, Neale Hanvey:

"For most of us, Christmas is a time for sharing with family and loved ones. However, for many frontline workers in the NHS and our emergency services, there is little time for rest. I therefore pay tribute to them for their dedicated service over this challenging winter period.

"All of us in ALBA can be proud of the work we have done over the last year, whether that be our steadfast defence of the workers at Grangemouth or our support for Peter and Florence Fanning in their efforts to save the winter fuel payment for millions of pensioners. ALBA stood up while so many others stood by.

"As we approach the new year, we will continue to stand up for the interests of Scottish workers in our oil and gas industry, in key sectors such as fishing and agriculture and highlight the grave injustice of fuel poor Scots in an energy rich Scotland.

"The Yes movement itself has faced difficulties, yet despite this, recent opinion polls now show consistent majority support for independence. It is clear that the people are ready for independence; what is lacking is a credible, united plan.

"ALBA will continue to reach out to the wider movement, as we have done since our inception, with the clear message that Scotland’s independence must be sought and won at the election next year. We know this is legal and legitimate, and we also know that asking Westminster is a fool’s errand.

"The next six months are pivotal for Scotland, with one eye on the World Cup, yes, and the other on the 2026 Scottish election. The direction we take as a nation rests firmly in our hands. Voting ALBA on the regional list will bring us one step closer to independence.

"Merry Christmas from everyone at the ALBA Party."