Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, has urged Nicola Sturgeon to be true to her word and stamp out offensive language from her Party’s elected representatives, starting with comments made by Perth and Kinross Councillor Dave Doogan.
Last week during a debate on Gaelic Language Cllr Doogan took the opportunity to contribute a remarkable speech in Gaelic referencing “quislings” and “red coats”.
In response to Murdo’s question the First Minister said, "I condemn any language, no matter who it is from that is racist or anti-English."
Murdo is now calling for Cllr Doogan to apologise for his remarks and for the SNP to take appropriate disciplinary action against him.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“In Perthshire we have always conducted political debate with respect for each other’s opinions, trying to avoid inflammatory language.
“This makes Cllr Doogan’s offensive comments all the more disappointing and inappropriate.
“This was not just some minor SNP supporter posting abusive messages online. Cllr Doogan is Deputy Leader of the SNP administration on Perth & Kinross Council, and until recently worked in the constituency office of John Swinney MSP. He is senior enough to know better.
“I was pleased to hear Nicola Sturgeon condemn the remarks made by Cllr Doogan, but questions still remain as to what disciplinary action the SNP will take and whether he is fit to stand as a candidate under the SNP banner.
“The First Minister should be true to her word and not only condemn these comments but also take appropriate action to stamp out racism and xenophobia from within her own party. If prompt action isn’t taken then we can only conclude that it is perfectly normal to air these views whilst being an elected SNP councillor.
“In the week since these remarks were made Cllr Doogan has made no effort to clarify or retract these comments and I believe a full apology is the very least we should expect.
“I would hope that all local SNP elected politicians will distance themselves from Cllr Doogan’s language.”