Third sector vital to EU stability

Withdrawal from the EU would pose a threat to Scotland’s strong and dynamic third sector, which plays a crucial role in the drive for social justice and inclusive economic growth.

Addressing delegates at Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) gathering event, Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland's Place in Europe Michael Russell said:

“The social protections and human rights which make Scotland an open and inclusive country are seriously at risk due to Brexit.

“The SCVO paper on the impact of Brexit on the sector is a compelling read. There is powerful evidence of the concern felt throughout Scotland. More than 80% of those asked in their survey believe Brexit will have a negative impact on the economy, on poverty and on human rights.

“This is something that I hear time and time again from those in many different sectors. Scotland out of the single market - with cutting immigration and enforcing borders prioritised ahead of living standards, human rights, the economy and how the United Kingdom is seen around the world.

“The third sector’s continued access to EU structural funds also vital – including our new £29 million ESF fund, with £12 million to support communities and the Third Sector to develop new approaches to tackling poverty and inequality helping us to create a fairer Scotland.”