Edinburgh Direct Aid and Denis and Jeanne Rutovitz

Early day motion 969, tabled 15 October 2026 by Scott Arthur (Labour). Signed by 2 members.

That this House pays tribute to Denis Rutovitz and Jeanne Rutovitz as they step down as Chair and Vice-Chair respectively of Edinburgh Direct Aid; recognises Denis as the founder of the charity and acknowledges the decades of leadership, compassion and commitment that he and Jeanne have devoted to humanitarian causes; notes with admiration Denis's initiative in delivering aid into Sarajevo during the siege of the city, during which he was wounded by sniper fire while undertaking humanitarian work; further notes their contribution to relief efforts supporting communities affected by conflict, poverty and natural disasters in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Palestine, Pakistan, Ukraine and elsewhere; commends their role in establishing Edinburgh Direct Aid as one of Scotland's most respected humanitarian organisations, mobilising volunteers and practical support for some of the world's most vulnerable people; and expresses its sincere gratitude to Denis and Jeanne for their remarkable service, dedication and inspiration over many years, wishing them both a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.

Signatures by party: Labour 2.