Irshad Ahmed
Scottish Labour · Scotland
“The onus is on local authorities to work with their communities and it is perfectly possible under the legislation for part of a burial ground to be designated for a specific faith.”
“Muslim communities have raised concerns with me about the lack of burial plots across the Lothians. The number of available plots is low, and there is an urgent need for more permanent provision in the area.”
“Thousands of houses will be built in Edinburgh and the Lothians over the next decade, which will add to the pressure on health services. Will the Scottish Government listen to doctors and patients and change planning law to require property developers to help to fund and build GP surgeries as part of large developments?”
“I have experienced the pain of seeing loved ones stuck for years on a national health service waiting list. In this Parliament, I will speak up for patients and for their right to get the treatment that they need. I will also campaign for better public health. That brings me to sport.”
“Then, this summer, the Commonwealth games will be returning to Glasgow, and the city’s sporting bodies are to be congratulated on making that happen. However, Edinburgh will be represented, too, and has hit gold before, famously through Sir Chris Hoy and Allan Wells. I wish all our athletes the very best of luck.”
“In my first speech in this Parliament, I thank the voters of Edinburgh and Lothians East for their trust in me. The Scottish Labour Party has given me a political home. I thank and acknowledge the support of Anas Sarwar, Jackie Baillie and Kate Watson, and the members who supported me.”
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Every one of 9 lines we hold for Irshad Ahmed, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account.
“The onus is on local authorities to work with their communities and it is perfectly possible under the legislation for part of a burial ground to be designated for a specific faith. Local authorities whose areas include communities that have specific burial requirements should absolutely work with those communities to ensure that their needs are met. The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to, and recognises the importance of, ensuring that burial provision reflects the diverse religious and cultural needs of all communities. We would be more than happy to update members on the ongoing work on that and any outcome from the engagement between my officials and SOLACE. Children with Autism (After-school Care and Holiday Clubs) 10.”
“Muslim communities have raised concerns with me about the lack of burial plots across the Lothians. The number of available plots is low, and there is an urgent need for more permanent provision in the area. Does the cabinet secretary have plans to meet the Muslim community to discuss the provision for Islamic cemeteries and burial grounds in Scotland, and to review the support or guidance that the Government provides to local authorities on meeting the needs of Muslim communities? Maree Todd: As I said in my earlier answer, I have asked officials to engage with SOLACE on that issue to get a better understanding of local authorities’ provision of burial space for different faiths.”
“Thousands of houses will be built in Edinburgh and the Lothians over the next decade, which will add to the pressure on health services. Will the Scottish Government listen to doctors and patients and change planning law to require property developers to help to fund and build GP surgeries as part of large developments? Angela Constance: As I said in my answer to Lloyd Melville, health boards and local authorities have clear responsibilities with regard to planning. However, I will look at the detail of and give further consideration to Mr Ahmed’s specific ask. Orkney Health and Social Care Services (Staff Recruitment and Retention) 3.”
“That should be the legacy of the 2026 Commonwealth games: a healthier and happier Scotland where everyone can thrive.”
“Then, this summer, the Commonwealth games will be returning to Glasgow, and the city’s sporting bodies are to be congratulated on making that happen. However, Edinburgh will be represented, too, and has hit gold before, famously through Sir Chris Hoy and Allan Wells. I wish all our athletes the very best of luck. While we cheer on our elite sportspeople, let us not forget the community sports that take place every day. The 2014 games were supposed to leave a legacy, but, sadly, that was not delivered. I hope that the Scottish Government will not miss the opportunity again. The Commonwealth games should be the start of a new focus on promoting sport in Scotland. There should be investment in our community sports halls, swimming pools and pitches, and there should be investment in schools so that every child can live up to their potential.”
“I have experienced the pain of seeing loved ones stuck for years on a national health service waiting list. In this Parliament, I will speak up for patients and for their right to get the treatment that they need. I will also campaign for better public health. That brings me to sport. There is no better way to stay healthy than regular exercise. For me, it is playing badminton twice a week—sadly, my days as a fast bowler are over. However, sport is special because it brings communities and nations together. Scottish Labour wants to promote the health and community benefits of sport across the country and for people from all backgrounds. This summer, we can celebrate the very best of sport. Like everyone in Scotland, I will be cheering on Steve Clarke, Andy Robertson and the tartan army. We all wish the Scotland team well in the world cup.”
“I learned so much from them. Across the diverse area I represent, there are thousands of stories like mine. The great city of Edinburgh has given me so much. It is the place where I have lived, worked and brought up my family over the past three decades. Our children went on to study information technology, science and law. I want to ensure that all Scottish children have access to the best possible education, which will help them develop into confident and skilled citizens. Although the Edinburgh and Lothians East region is a fantastic place to live, it also has serious challenges. We should never forget that many people are experiencing very hard times. I know the pressure that many people in the area face. I will do my utmost to speak for them and represent them.”
“In my first speech in this Parliament, I thank the voters of Edinburgh and Lothians East for their trust in me. The Scottish Labour Party has given me a political home. I thank and acknowledge the support of Anas Sarwar, Jackie Baillie and Kate Watson, and the members who supported me. When I came to Edinburgh 32 years ago, my first job was as a dishwasher in a restaurant. A few years later, my wife and I opened our own shop in Musselburgh. We worked hard. The shop was open all hours. In those early days, it was only us who were running it, often with our young children in a pram behind the counter. The business flourished, and it is now managed by my sons. Running a shop is never dull. You experience the highs and lows of life. We met the most wonderful people in the community, and they are now our good friends.”
“Bi-smi llāhi r-rahmāni r-rahīm. I, Irshad Ahmed, do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law. So help me”