That the Parliament recognises and gives thanks to all Edinburgh black cab drivers who participated in the Poppy Cabs initiative, providing free transport for over 40 veterans to and from Remembrance Sunday services across Edinburgh and the Lothians; notes that the Edinburgh and Lothians East region is home to approximately 25,000 veterans, underlining the importance of ensuring that those who have served remain valued, supported and included in community life; commends the drivers’ generosity in volunteering their time and vehicles to help veterans attend these important commemorations; recognises the importance of this practical support in enabling veterans to remember fallen comrades, share their experiences and participate in acts of remembrance with dignity and respect; acknowledges the compassion, kindness and gratitude shown by participating drivers and organisers towards veterans and the wider Armed Forces community; welcomes the initiative’s fundraising through the sale of taxi poppy badges in support of veterans’ charities; recognises the contribution of taxi drivers providing similar voluntary support elsewhere in the UK; pays tribute to the courage, dedication and sacrifice of veterans, serving Armed Forces personnel and their families; considers that initiatives such as Poppy Cabs demonstrate the enduring bonds between communities and those who have served their country, and commends everyone involved for honouring the legacy of service and sacrifice through practical acts of care, ensuring that veterans know that their contribution is remembered and valued.
Supported by: Colin Beattie, Julie MacDougall, Mark Simpson, David Smith, Paul Sweeney