THE SNP’s leader at Westminster, Ian Blackford MP, will be the lead speaker at tomorrow’s march and rally for independence in Glasgow.
He will become the most senior figure in the party to address a Yes movement rally since First Minister Nicola Sturgeon spoke at The National’s own rally in George Square in Glasgow in November 2019.
Organised by Yes2indee, tomorrow’s march has been given a licence by Glasgow City Council with an anticipated attendance of 1000 participants, who will process through the city centre from Kelvin Way to the MacLennan Arch at Glasgow Green, which will be the rallying point for speeches.
Other speakers will be named on the event’s Twitter feed nearer to the time.
It is Yes2indee’s first major public march, and organiser Gary Kelly has appealed for all those attending to convene at Kelvin Way in plenty of time for the 11.30am start.
Anyone wishing to be a steward should attend at 11am for a briefing – important as a counter-demonstration is anticipated at some point in the march.
Kelly said: “We are delighted to announce that Ian Blackford has agreed to be the first speaker at the end of the march, and we’re sure he will have plenty to say.”
After a week when he was singled out for attention by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, no doubt the MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber will indeed have plenty to say to the Yes movement.
The march will have the accompaniment of some pipers and drummers, and the Yes Bikers are reported to be forming a guard of honour for the marchers.
Kelly said: “We are excited to announce the Yes Bikers for Independence will be attending, bringing the thunder to Glasgow once again for the first time since a wet dreich day in Glasgow in early 2020. Volunteer stewards are also needed. The Glasgow steward ratio for this event will be 10 to one, so 1000 people marching needs 100 stewards for this event – bring your own vest or one will be provided.”
All participants are asked to observe social distancing as far as possible and those travelling to Kelvin Way by public transport are reminded that masks must be worn. Yes2indee stated: “Also on the route at 188 Clyde Street we have a place of worship. Respect those inside by falling silent before we pass and just after we pass we can continue with music etc.
“It’s part of the agreement with all marches in Scotland, just never been highlighted much.”
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