Galashiels to Host the 2027 Scottish Rural and Islands Parliament 

That the Parliament welcomes the announcement of Galashiels as the host of the next Scottish Rural and Islands Parliament (SRIP) in October 2027; understands that the SRIP takes place every two years in a different location; further understands that the SRIP is the UK's largest participative democratic assembly, bringing hundreds of rural and island people together with politicians to share learning and shape the policy agenda; looks forward to the opportunity for Galashiels to welcome delegates from all over Scotland and for the amazing people and organisations from Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale and across the Scottish Borders to host such a vibrant national event; recognises the important role of organisations in the Scottish Borders, including Scottish Borders Council, Borders Community Action, Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce, South of Scotland Enterprise, Youth Borders, the Southern Uplands Partnership and the Scottish Borders CLLD Local Action Group and Youth Local Action Group in co-delivering the 2027 SRIP with Scottish Rural Action and Scottish Rural Network; notes that the Scottish Rural and Islands Youth Parliament will also take place and welcomes this platform for youth voice and involvement; celebrates the positive impact of bringing together people and communities; notes what it sees as the importance of supporting rural and island communities more widely and awaits with interest the outcome of these discussions, and encourages all relevant stakeholders to engage with this event to the fullest extent possible.