Some of the comments on social media were, of course, a little feisty.
An event to celebrate our country’s politicians? What?! A hideous idea. Down with The Herald. The remarks directed at a handful of Scotland’s elected members were equally spirited to say the least. I won’t repeat them.
Social media can be a weird and wonderful place, as we all know, so it came as no surprise to see such a lively response to our publication of the shortlist for the Scottish Politician of the Year Awards 2023 this week.
The Herald started this event in 1999, and each year it proves to be the highlight of the Scottish political calendar. The number of people reading the shortlist on our website – or making their views known on social media – is demonstrative of the interest there is in the event, both in its run-up and on the actual night.
I am as aware as any social media user of the shortcomings of some politicians, of where mistakes are made, errors of judgement, massaging of facts and truths, and of varying levels of effort, passion and conviction. I spend my days dealing with the professional and personal goings-on of our elected members, after all.
But there is a lot of good; a great deal of energy, commitment and professionalism given by so many of our elected members – across the political divide – that it is only right to mark and reward, pay tribute and say thank you. We will be doing that, with hundreds of guests from across the country, on November 23 at Prestonfield House, in Edinburgh.
The judging process is thorough and, at times, as spirited as the comments made on social media, as a team of industry professionals, with a shared passion and understanding of Scottish politics and society, hides itself away for a day to discuss, and debate, the long list of potential nominees and winners. There are always differences in opinion, but also detailed and considered discussions to reach an agreement.
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It is a rigorous process, and as chairperson of the judging panel, for me it is a reminder of not only the work being done across Scotland by our politicians, but how much there is always still to do.
At The Herald, our job is to push our politicians; for answers, for solutions, for more for the people of Scotland. We are as aspirational for our country as we believe our elected members should be. Sometimes journalists and politicians will agree on things, sometimes we will not. But we should always respect each other’s professional purpose.
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And that is what the Scottish Politician of the Year awards are about. Stepping back, paying tribute, and marking the work being done in Scottish politics.
But will there also be jokes on the night? Sneaky digs? Of course. Where would the fun be otherwise?
Catherine Salmond
Editor
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