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.”
Scottish Parliament18 June 2026Source ↗
“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.”
Scottish Parliament18 June 2026Source ↗
“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?”
Scottish Parliament17 June 2026Source ↗
“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.”
Scottish Parliament2 June 2026Source ↗
“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.”
Scottish Parliament2 June 2026Source ↗
“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.”
Scottish Parliament2 June 2026Source ↗