First Female Junior Jarl Elected for Shetland’s Junior Up Helly Aa

That the Parliament congratulates Erin Harries on being elected as junior jarl for the 2027 Junior Up Helly Aa Festival in Lerwick; understands that Erin will make history as the first female junior jarl in the junior fire festival’s 70 years; notes that girls were only allowed to take part in the festival for the first time in 2023; understands that 13-year-old Erin was elected as junior jarl by first and second year pupils at Anderson High School in Lerwick at the end of the summer holidays; notes that the junior jarl leads a Viking squad to visit schools, take part in a torchlight procession and burn a replica Viking long ship; further notes that Erin has said that her squad will include an equal number of girls and boys; recognises the enthusiasm shown by young people in Shetland for the festival and praises them on their passion for equal participation; believes that Erin will inspire young people across Shetland in her role as junior jarl, and wishes her and all involved a successful and enjoyable Junior Up Helly Aa in January 2027.