IF it has not already been recognised by the Yes movement, then this truth became even more evident during the Holyrood election campaign: that the BBC and other mainstream media cannot be trusted to bring you the facts about the cause of Scottish independence.

Alternative sources of information are going to be vital to those who support independence when the next referendum campaign comes around, and we at The National and especially the Yes DIY pages will do our bit.

We recognise that talented people who specialise in such activities as livestreaming over the internet will have a vital role to play in getting the necessary information out there. That is why we have no hesitation in asking the Yes movement to support the crowdfunding appeal of Independence Live.

In the run-up to the indyref in 2014, Independence Live first appeared because two Yes activists were inspired to do something about the anti-independence propaganda being put out at the time by the mainstream media – especially the BBC, which they believe has not changed since.

Kevin Gibney and Derek MacLean decided to do something about it and began livestreaming pro-indy events, such as the various All Under One Banner marches.

Independence Live is made up of two very popular platforms: IndyLive Radio, which has thousands of listeners each week, and Independence Live itself, with its work supporting live streams and online events from Yes groups and indy organisations.

Recently they have begun creating their own events and providing assistance for those who wish to contribute to the promotion of independence and coverage of other issues of importance to the people of Scotland. Gibney explained: “As well as covering everything around Scottish independence, Independence Live also cover other social issues that affect us all.

“The goal is always the same, which is to get information out to people and to show others how they can do it too.”

It is perhaps surprising to hear Gibney say “there has never been a more important time to have a media with an independent mind”.

More important than 2014? “For sure,” he continued. “Now we have the potential to win online. In 2014, we had no chance really.”

That is so true – the coronavirus pandemic has made the Yes movement so much more conscious of the need for online activities, and Independence Live are in the vanguard of Yessers working online to promote the cause.

Gibney said: “The day after the disappointment of losing indyref, which we covered through the night from the Glasgow Emirates Arena, and feeling the anger towards the mainstream Scottish media, we made the decision that we were still needed – probably even more so – and started crowdfunding as a way to keep going to pay for costs. We are very appreciative of all the support received so far.

“As we have expanded, the costs have grown and we need your help. Times are tough but if you can help us to keep getting that information out to people to bypass the BBC and MSM, then you are investing in the hope that we feel for an independent Scotland and a better future that we control.”

The election coverage they mounted earlier this month showed how far Independence Live has come.

Gibney said: “From the simple mobile phone in your pocket to the much more sophisticated set-up that we had for the two-day Scottish election coverage that involved a big co-ordinated team effort; we can do it all.

“For the election coverage we had real-time on-screen live result updates, special guests via Zoom like Eddi Reader and Lesley Riddoch, interviews from the floor of the Glasgow Emirates Arena and a multi-camera set-up.”

There’s much more to come, which is why Independence Live has started its spring crowdfunding as a way to keep paying the costs of running this endeavour. As their work has expanded, so to have the costs. They need support and help from campaigners.

The Yes movement needs to bypass the BBC and MSM and Independence Live wants to move towards being the alternative.

Find out more and donate at www.independencelive.net