That this House congratulates all those associated with the the iconic D’Jaconelli’s Café in Glasgow as it marks 100 years since its opening by Mario Jaconelli in 1924, and its service to the community in Maryhill and across the north of the city ever since; appreciates that it serves hot food and home-made artisan ice-cream in its traditional 1950s interior; recognises that the character of the café has attracted people from all over Glasgow and around the world; notes that the café has been used as a film and television location for famous productions including Trainspotting starring Ewan McGregor, Carla’s Song with Robert Carlyle, and Tutti Frutti featuring Robbie Coltrane; further congratulates the team for their commitment to maintaining an authentic old-fashioned café experience for all of its visitors and the local community; particularly thanks the team for their service to members of the Glasgow North parliamentary constituency office over the years since May 2015; and wishes all at D’Jaconelli’s the very best for many years to come.

That this House congratulates all those associated with the the iconic D’Jaconelli’s Café in Glasgow as it marks 100 years since its opening by Mario Jaconelli in 1924, and its service to the community in Maryhill and across the north of the city ever since; appreciates that it serves hot...

That this House recognises the return to the stage of the modern Scottish classic Tally’s Blood, written by Scots-Italian playwright Ann Marie Di Mambro; welcomes that, in late 2023, audiences across Scotland got to enjoy the first full production of the play in 20 years, directed by Ken Alexander who also directed the 2023 production; understands that the play takes places between the 1930s and 1950s, and follows the lives and loves the Pedreschis, an Italian immigrant family who own a traditional café in Glasgow, in the run up to and aftermath of the Second World War; further recognises that the story is based on aspects of the playwright’s own Scottish-Italian heritage; appreciates that Tally’s Blood’s universal themes of love, family, war, identity and prejudice have resonated with audiences for decades, and are as relevant today as they were when the play was first performed at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh in 1990; further notes that that the play, which is a set text for the National 5 English curriculum in Scotland, helped raise awareness of the Arandora Star tragedy of 2 July 2040 when a passenger ship was torpedoed by a German U-boat while transporting Italian and German detainees to Canada, resulting in the loss of over 800 lives; is pleased that new audiences have had a chance to enjoy the play’s return to the stage; and is confident that the heartwarming story of Rosinella, Massimo, Lucia and Hughie will continue to delight audiences for years to come.

That this House recognises the return to the stage of the modern Scottish classic Tally’s Blood, written by Scots-Italian playwright Ann Marie Di Mambro; welcomes that, in late 2023, audiences across Scotland got to enjoy the first full production of the play in 20 years, directed by Ken Alexander who...

That this House welcomes the joint declaration by the Archbishop of Glasgow, Most Rev William Nolan, and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, Rt Rev Sally Foster-Fulton, issued on 26th April 2024 to mark the visit to Glasgow of Father Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Holy Family Church in Gaza; notes that the declaration expresses solidarity with all the sons and daughters of Abraham, the peoples of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim heritage in the Holy Land, those of other faiths and none across the region, and recognises that millions of innocent people have suffered the consequences of violence and war, families and communities have been devastated, many have lost hope for a peaceful future and that men, women and children have been robbed of their innate human dignity and their right to survive; further notes that in stating enough is enough, the statement expresses hope that all may know deep peace and reconciliation in their lifetimes, supports agencies and individuals who are serving those suffering at their time of greatest need, unites with all people of good will who are campaigning for an end to this violence, resolves to never not lose hope, and prays that the hearts of people in positions of power to end this senseless violence may be turned towards compassion, and that they may have the courage and wisdom to pursue the path of justice and peace for all who call the Holy Land home.

That this House welcomes the joint declaration by the Archbishop of Glasgow, Most Rev William Nolan, and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, Rt Rev Sally Foster-Fulton, issued on 26th April 2024 to mark the visit to Glasgow of Father Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Holy Family Church...

That this House notes that Thursday 25 April 2024 has been designated as World Malaria Day by the World Health Organisation, marking the 17th time the day has been observed since its establishment by the World Health Assembly in 2007; further notes that this year's theme focuses on accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world, drawing attention to the decline in progress toward reducing malaria globally, particularly in the WHO African Region which in 2022 accounted for 94% of malaria cases and 95% of deaths and, that on current trajectories, critical 2025 milestones of the WHO global malaria strategy for reductions in malaria cases and deaths will be missed; also notes that the disease continues to directly endanger health and cost lives, and perpetuates a vicious cycle of inequity, with people living in the most vulnerable situations including pregnant women, infants, children under five years of age, refugees, migrants, internally displaced people, and Indigenous Peoples disproportionately impacted; and calls on the UK Government to increase its focus on working towards Sustainable Development Goal 3.3 to end the malaria epidemic, and to contribute required funding at the upcoming replenishments of Gavi, the vaccine alliance and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

That this House notes that Thursday 25 April 2024 has been designated as World Malaria Day by the World Health Organisation, marking the 17th time the day has been observed since its establishment by the World Health Assembly in 2007; further notes that this year's theme focuses on accelerating the...

That this House congratulates all those involved in the development and unveiling of Bella the Beithir, believed to be one of the biggest community artworks in Scotland, at the new Stockingfield Bridge on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Glasgow North on Friday 1 March 2024; notes that in Scottish folklore, the Beithir is a lightning serpent most often seen in summer evenings during storms, and that this sculpture, as imagined by artist Nichol Wheatley, has seven coloured mosaicked winds along her body and a world egg in her mouth symbolising hope; further notes that the new bridge reconnects the areas Maryhill, Ruchill and Gilshochill, and that Scottish Canals commissioned eight community artworks to form an art park, with making, connecting, building relationships and joy at its heart; notes that Bella’s body was formed using excess earth from landscaping work, reducing the development's carbon footprint by reusing 1,000 tonnes of earth, and that decoration of the Beithir requires some 50,000 handmade tiles and 6,000 scales to cover her 120 metre body, with production led by Louise Nolan and Ruth Impey from Make It Glasgow and involving input from across the local community including schools, women’s groups, youth clubs, individuals and families; notes that the project has been developed considering recent research evidencing the positive change engaging in arts and culture can lead to for communities and wider social benefits achieved as a result; and looks forward to the continuing decoration of Bella and development of her presence in the community.

That this House congratulates all those involved in the development and unveiling of Bella the Beithir, believed to be one of the biggest community artworks in Scotland, at the new Stockingfield Bridge on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Glasgow North on Friday 1 March 2024; notes that in Scottish...

That this House congratulates all those involved in the production of the Maryhill Activity Directory, following the launch of its tenth edition during its 21st anniversary year on Friday 22 March 2024 at a special event in the Mackintosh Halls on Shakespeare Street in the Maryhill area of Glasgow; recognises that the directory, which began as a short list of events and community organisations on a single sheet of paper in 2003, has grown to become a full-colour, 42-page A5 brochure with over 600 listings and contact details for a wide range of groups, churches, sports organisations, voluntary services, elected representatives and more across Maryhill and beyond; notes that in addition to the printed directory, a regularly updated website and app has also been produced in recent years; further notes in particular the important role of Deacon Jim Hamilton of Maryhill Parish Church in the development of the directory throughout its history; pays tribute to Jim and all the volunteers who have helped to make the directory a reality, and extends its thanks to all the organisations who provide the services and activities features in the directory, and wishes all those involved every success for many years to come.

That this House congratulates all those involved in the production of the Maryhill Activity Directory, following the launch of its tenth edition during its 21st anniversary year on Friday 22 March 2024 at a special event in the Mackintosh Halls on Shakespeare Street in the Maryhill area of Glasgow; recognises...

That this House congratulates everyone at St Mary's Primary School in Maryhill, Glasgow, on the school reaching the landmark of 50 years of educational and community service to families across Maryhill at its current location on Kilmun Street; understands that St Mary’s Primary School first started delivering denominational education in 1851, and the current building was opened at the present site on 26 February 1974; applauds the efforts of the staff team, who support close to 300 pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds and speaking over 30 languages; commends St Mary’s Primary School for its commitment to Catholic education; recognises the school’s key partnership with pupils, their families and the local parishes, The Immaculate Conception Church, Maryhill, and St Gregory’s Church, Wyndford; commends the school’s efforts within the wider community to develop important partnerships, including the "Introduction to University" at the Maryhill Hub and parent support initiatives with the Maryhill Health Centre; acknowledges the quality of education provided by St Mary’s Primary School staff, both past and present, over many years, including by the school's first headteacher on the current site, Brother Jerome, and its current headteacher, Madeline McGeachie; further recognises that a celebratory mass was held on 18 March 2024, led by His Grace Archbishop Nolan; thanks parents, staff and pupils alike over many years who have worked to achieve the school’s vision to be "united in nurturing our St Mary’s family towards growth and success", and wishes all the community further success for many years to come.

That this House congratulates everyone at St Mary's Primary School in Maryhill, Glasgow, on the school reaching the landmark of 50 years of educational and community service to families across Maryhill at its current location on Kilmun Street; understands that St Mary’s Primary School first started delivering denominational education in...

That this House notes with concern the announcement by Lloyds Banking Group to close the Bank of Scotland branch on Byres Road in the West End of Glasgow; further notes that the branch has been a long-standing and much-valued presence on the street, and that its closure represents a further significant reduction in the availability of branch-based banking services to the local community, following the closure of other major retail bank branches in recent years; expresses concern about the impact of the closure especially on older, more vulnerable or less computer-literate customers who may have to travel further at greater expense to access alternative provision; and calls on Lloyds Banking Group and the Bank of Scotland, if not willing to reconsider this decision, to ensure that affected customers are fully consulted, engaged and supported in order to be able to use banking services that meet their needs in the future.

That this House notes with concern the announcement by Lloyds Banking Group to close the Bank of Scotland branch on Byres Road in the West End of Glasgow; further notes that the branch has been a long-standing and much-valued presence on the street, and that its closure represents a further...

That this House congratulates East Park School, based on Maryhill Road in Glasgow, as it begins a year of celebrations to mark its 150th anniversary; notes that the celebrations for the charity, which began on 6 October 2023 with the launch of a 150th Anniversary Exhibition Timeline at the Maryhill Burgh Halls in Glasgow will also include a major conference in November 2023 and further events activities over the coming months; acknowledges that since its foundation in 1874, East Park School has provided education and support accommodation to children and young people with additional support needs, including autism, from the same site in central Maryhill since its foundation, and continues to be an integral part of the local community; recognises the remarkable hard work of its dedicated staff in delivering wide-ranging support to children and young people aged five and 18 through the school itself, as well as their Workmates service which supports young adults aged 17 to 25 with high support needs to continue education, complete work experience and achieve their full potential; and extends gratitude and best wishes for their continued success.

That this House congratulates East Park School, based on Maryhill Road in Glasgow, as it begins a year of celebrations to mark its 150th anniversary; notes that the celebrations for the charity, which began on 6 October 2023 with the launch of a 150th Anniversary Exhibition Timeline at the Maryhill...

That this House congratulates the Shakespeare Street Youth Club, known as the Shakey, on reaching its 100th anniversary; notes that the club, founded in Maryhill, Glasgow, in 1923, holds the accolade of being the oldest youth club in Scotland; recognises that the Shakey provides a range of activities to improve the lives of children and young adults in Maryhill and the Wyndford area, including regular cooking clubs, well-being sessions and play groups, as well as engaging young people in sports such as football, Tai Chi and Tai Kwando; notes their tireless work to enhance the lived experience of young people through residentials, trips and days out; further notes the wider social contribution the Shakey makes to the local area through fundraising, community events and campaigns; acknowledges the hard work and dedication of all staff, organisers and volunteers who have collectively provided vital support to their community for over a century; and extends gratitude and best wishes for a successful future to the Shakey for many years to come.

That this House congratulates the Shakespeare Street Youth Club, known as the Shakey, on reaching its 100th anniversary; notes that the club, founded in Maryhill, Glasgow, in 1923, holds the accolade of being the oldest youth club in Scotland; recognises that the Shakey provides a range of activities to improve...

That this House congratulates Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau on reaching its 40th anniversary; recognises the exceptional work and dedication of staff, volunteers and trustees in providing the communities of North Glasgow with free and confidential advice on a wide range of issues from benefits and debt to housing and energy; notes that it now supports in excess of 6,000 local people annually; further notes that it is based within the heart of Maryhill and operates in an area with high levels of multiple deprivation and that the service is a lifeline to many local residents; understands that during the last 40 years Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau has provided advice on over 500,000 issues and secured more than £70 million for local people in the form of financial gains; acknowledges that Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau also offers a well-established tribunal service which assists clients with hearings on benefit claims, and an EU Settlement Project to help EU citizens with their immigration status; appreciates that Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau's service is delivered in large part by volunteers who come from diverse backgrounds and reflect the communities that they serve; and extends gratitude and best wishes for a successful future to Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau.

That this House congratulates Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau on reaching its 40th anniversary; recognises the exceptional work and dedication of staff, volunteers and trustees in providing the communities of North Glasgow with free and confidential advice on a wide range of issues from benefits and debt to housing...

That this House notes the publication on 17 May 2023 of an open letter, signed by 35 non-governmental and civil society organisations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and Christian Solidarity Worldwide, addressed to Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council, in advance of the Council’s 53rd session expected to take place between 19 June and 14 July 2023, which calls for the Council to develop and adopt a resolution that extends the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Eritrea for one year, and that spells out and condemns ongoing human rights violations committed by Eritrean authorities; further notes that the letter identifies such violations as including arbitrary arrests and detentions, including incommunicado detention of journalists and other dissenting voices, violations of the rights to a fair trial, access to justice and due process, enforced disappearances, involuntary conscription into the country’s national service system, restrictions on the media and media workers, severe restrictions on civic space, including the rights to freedoms of opinion and expression, peaceful assembly, association, movement and non-discrimination, widespread impunity for past and ongoing human rights violations, and the Government of Eritrea’s refusal to engage in a serious dialogue with the international community, including by cooperating with the Council, despite its election for a second term as a Council Member; and calls on the Government’s delegation to the Council to support the development and adoption of any such resolution.

That this House notes the publication on 17 May 2023 of an open letter, signed by 35 non-governmental and civil society organisations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and Christian Solidarity Worldwide, addressed to Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the United Nations Human Rights Council, in advance...

That this House welcomes the announcement of a new not-for-profit community and cultural festival, WestFest, which will take place in the West End of Glasgow during June 2023; notes that the proposals set out to deliver a programme of free, accessible cultural events and activities across the local area, and looks to build on the successes of the West End Festival which had taken place in the community over the past 25 years; hope that the events will provide an opportunity for community groups, businesses, artists and residents to create vibrant, quality and inclusive activities that will be open to all to enjoy; and looks forward to this year’s programme being the first of many for years to come.

That this House welcomes the announcement of a new not-for-profit community and cultural festival, WestFest, which will take place in the West End of Glasgow during June 2023; notes that the proposals set out to deliver a programme of free, accessible cultural events and activities across the local area, and...

That this House expresses its sadness at the loss of over 200 lives in Malawi and Mozambique following the landfall of Cyclone Freddy in those countries since 13 March 2023; notes that the cyclone has re-intensified at least seven times after initially weakening, and has become one of the longest-lasting tropical cyclones on record; further notes that the widespread devastation caused by the storm has led to the destruction of homes, businesses, roads, agricultural land and other infrastructure, and exacerbated existing challenges in the region including an ongoing outbreak of cholera in Malawi; notes concerns that the increasing intensity of such storms is an impact of fossil-fuel driven climate change; calls on the Government and governments and multilateral institutions around the world to provide an effective humanitarian response to this disaster and redouble efforts to tackle the causes and effects of climate change; and sends its sympathy and condolences to all those who have lost loved ones or found themselves displaced as a result of the cyclone.

That this House expresses its sadness at the loss of over 200 lives in Malawi and Mozambique following the landfall of Cyclone Freddy in those countries since 13 March 2023; notes that the cyclone has re-intensified at least seven times after initially weakening, and has become one of the longest-lasting...

That this House notes the 10th anniversary on 25 February 2023 of Scotland being recognised as a Fair Trade Nation; further notes that recognition of this status commits national and local governments, communities, organisations and individuals to work towards and achieve targets for the use and promotion of fair trade products, and the use where possible of fair trade principles in the development of procurement and purchasing policies, with the aim of ensuring that the producers of goods, such as small farmers or garment workers in developing countries, are paid a fair price for their products; congratulates the many charitable organisations, fair trade shops and community groups that have worked for many years to attain and sustain local and regional Fair Trade awards, which contribute to the award at a national level; welcomes the series of events and activities organised by the Scottish Fair Trade Forum to mark the anniversary, and its commitment to continuing to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of fair trade to some of the poorest and most vulnerable people around the world and as a means of building economic partnerships that promote sustainability and tackle climate change; and wishes all those involved in the movement every success in working for the day when all trade is fair trade.

That this House notes the 10th anniversary on 25 February 2023 of Scotland being recognised as a Fair Trade Nation; further notes that recognition of this status commits national and local governments, communities, organisations and individuals to work towards and achieve targets for the use and promotion of fair trade...

That this House sends its sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Mr Ali Ahmed Aslam, original proprietor of the Shish Mahal restaurant in the West End of Glasgow, who passed away on 19 December 2022; notes that the restaurant, opened in 1964, is credited with inventing the recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala, and helped popularise Indian cuisine in Scotland, establishing Glasgow as one UK’s pre-eminent curry capitals; further notes the many warm tributes and happy memories that have been shared by generations of customers who have enjoyed Mr Ali’s legendary dishes and hospitality over the years; and hopes that these will provide some comfort to his family at this sad time.

That this House sends its sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of Mr Ali Ahmed Aslam, original proprietor of the Shish Mahal restaurant in the West End of Glasgow, who passed away on 19 December 2022; notes that the restaurant, opened in 1964, is credited with inventing the...

That this House congratulates all those involved in the Maryhill Young Movers, known as YoMo, Awards Night on 14 October 2022, which sought to recognise the achievements of young people from across the north of Glasgow in a range of youth empowerment activities and events over the previous year; notes that the awards included HiFive and Dynamic Youth Awards, which are accredited to the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework, as well as participation certificates for activities in a range of areas including cycling, litter picks, science, technology engineering and maths activities, beach-themed activities, arts and crafts, and visits to Glasgow’s Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Glasgow Green; further notes that four young people also achieved the Saltire Award, presented by the Scottish Government in recognition of their roles as volunteer leaders and role models for younger children involved in the programme; recognises the support for the awards and the ongoing programme provided by Maryhill Housing Association; and wishes all the YoMo staff, volunteers, and young participants, all the best for the coming year’s activities.

That this House congratulates all those involved in the Maryhill Young Movers, known as YoMo, Awards Night on 14 October 2022, which sought to recognise the achievements of young people from across the north of Glasgow in a range of youth empowerment activities and events over the previous year; notes...

That this House congratulates Stella Maris, also known as the Apostleship of the Sea, which held its 25th World Congress and delayed centenary celebrations in Glasgow on 3-5th October 2022; notes that the organisation was founded in the city on 4th October 1920 to support the welfare of seafarers, and has grown to become the largest ship visiting network in the world, providing seafarers, fishers and their families with practical and pastoral support, information, and a friend in times of need; further notes that the organisation's chaplains, staff and volunteers are present in hundreds of ports in over 50 countries around the world, reaching thousands of fishers and seafarers each year; welcomes the message of support and encouragement sent by Pope Francis to delegates at the Congress; and wishes all those involved in Stella Maris the very best as it enters its second century of service to all those who live and work on the seas.

That this House congratulates Stella Maris, also known as the Apostleship of the Sea, which held its 25th World Congress and delayed centenary celebrations in Glasgow on 3-5th October 2022; notes that the organisation was founded in the city on 4th October 1920 to support the welfare of seafarers, and...

That this House congratulates all those involved and connected with the Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust as it celebrates ten years since the historic Maryhill Burgh Halls building was reopened in April 2012; notes the Halls, originally opened in 1878 to serve as a police and fire station and municipal facility, had been marked for demolition after falling into disrepair in the late 20th century; further notes the efforts of the Trust, founded in 2004, to save and re-purpose the building as a community hub and venue; thanks the various Burgh Halls Trustees and volunteers over many years for their efforts, including securing £9.6 million from various sources such as the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund to redevelop complex; recognises the Trust’s efforts in making arts, local heritage and history accessible through community events, workshops, walking trails, exhibitions and the establishment of the Maryhill Museum; acknowledges the provision of work placements and the development of employability skills as part of the Trust’s volunteering, placement, and work experience strategy; commends volunteers, board members, staff, Trust members, visitors, supporters, friends, fellow organisations, and contractors for their tireless work to make this possible; and wishes the organisation well for the next ten years and beyond.

That this House congratulates all those involved and connected with the Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust as it celebrates ten years since the historic Maryhill Burgh Halls building was reopened in April 2012; notes the Halls, originally opened in 1878 to serve as a police and fire station and municipal facility,...

That this House congratulates the University of Glasgow, along with joint partners, the University of Edinburgh and education charity IntoUniversity, on the launch of the new IntoUniversity centre in Maryhill as part of their commitment to widening access to education; understands that it will be based at the Maryhill Community Hub in the Wyndford estate and is the third Scottish centre to be opened in the last year, building on the success of the first two centres which launched in Govan and Craigmillar; commends the goals of this collaboration which aims to connect young people, aged seven to 18, who may never have thought going to university was possible, with two of the world’s leading Higher Education institutions, providing opportunities to support their learning and nurture their ambitions; further understands that by working closely with local schools and other partners including Glasgow City Council, the centre will provide ground-breaking support to young people, including after-school academic support, mentoring with university students and local professionals, in-school aspiration-raising workshops and enrichment and work experience opportunities; and looks forward to the centre’s contribution to the Widening Participation agenda.

That this House congratulates the University of Glasgow, along with joint partners, the University of Edinburgh and education charity IntoUniversity, on the launch of the new IntoUniversity centre in Maryhill as part of their commitment to widening access to education; understands that it will be based at the Maryhill Community...