SNP conference to financially boost Inverness
THE biggest conference to be staged by the Scottish National Party starts in Inverness today and is set to generate £3.68 million for the city’s economy.
Representatives from more than 20 countries are expected among the 2000 people going to the four-day event at Eden Court Theatre which begins with an address from first minister Alex Salmond at 2pm.
More than 1200 party members, 68 MSPs, 160 media and 200 exhibitors are set to attend, including Inverness MSP Fergus Ewing.
"I am looking forward to welcoming the conference to Inverness and I know Inverness will give a great welcome to the SNP," he said.
"This conference marks the support people across Scotland, and in the Highlands, gave us in May’s election and we want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who voted for us."
Inverness Ness-side councillor and regional MSP John Finnie will invite the conference to pledge support for the STUC’s There is a Better Way campaign, which says investment in jobs and public services is needed for economic recovery.
Mr Salmond will make his keynote speech at 3pm on Saturday. On the same day wind farm protesters from across Scotland plan to stage a demonstration outside the conference from noon.
Other ministers addressing the conference include deputy first minister Nicola Sturgeon, finance secretary John Swinney, education secretary Michael Russell and justice secretary Kenny MacAskill.