Dr Mackay appointed Scotland's new Makar

Early day motion 556, tabled 12 December 2024 by Wendy Chamberlain (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 11 members.

That this House congratulates Dr Peter Mackay on being appointed Scotland’s new Makar; notes that Dr Mackay’s appointment as Scotland’s Makar, the National Poet for Scotland, is a historic milestone because he is the first Makar to write primarily in Gaelic; celebrates the deep connection to Scotland’s linguistic and cultural heritage that this appointment symbolises; understands that Dr Mackay is currently a Senior Lecturer at the University of St Andrews and notes that now, as the Makar, he will also be tasked with producing work reflecting significant national events and fostering a deeper appreciation of poetry throughout the country; and wishes Dr Mackay all the best for this role and for the future.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 7, Scottish National Party 2, DUP 1, Labour 1.