McConnell praises public sector

Jack McConnell thanked public sector workers on behalf of Scots

Scotland's first minister has praised the "debt of gratitude" that people owe to public sector workers who provide vital services over Christmas.

In a festive message, Jack McConnell said he wanted to thank them for their efforts on behalf of Scotland.

He made his message of goodwill during a Christmas Eve visit to Edinburgh's Sick Kids Hospital.

Mr McConnell was there with his nephew, who was badly injured in a road accident earlier in the year.

He said: "I wanted to say a big thank you, on behalf of the whole country, to all the health service staff and other public and emergency workers who will be on duty over the holiday period.

"Sadly, accidents and illness do not stop for Christmas, and we all owe a great debt of gratitude to the people who give up their holidays to look after others."

'Dedication and skills'

His nephew Michael McLuckie, 14, was treated at the hospital for life-threatening injuries.

"Michael and I were keen to say thank you to the staff of the Sick Kids for everything they did for him," the first minister said.

"Their dedication and skills are a tribute to Scotland's health service, which is still one of the best in the world."

Meanwhile, Scottish National Party leader John Swinney reflected on the current state of the world and said the peace and goodwill of the festive period would provide welcome respite from a year blighted by war.

"Our troops in Iraq and around the world will be in our thoughts and, once the festivities have passed, we must turn our minds to winning peace and security for all," Mr Swinney said.

'Recharge our batteries

"In Scotland, Christmas should be a time to think of those who do not share in the fruits of the nation's wealth.

"We are a rich country, but too many of us still suffer poverty, too many of us still face a daily struggle to make ends meet."

"I hope each and every one of us has a very merry Christmas.

"Let us celebrate all that is good and let us recharge our batteries for the fight to make things better."