Politician chosen for top role with Labour

A Neilston councillor has joined the top team of Scottish Labour under new leader Anas Sarwar.

That’s despite Paul O’Kane not currently serving at the Scottish Parliament.

Councillor O’Kane will speak for the national party on education and science.

He is fighting for the Renfrewshire South seat in May’s election and is also on the West Scotland Labour list.

Councillor O’Kane said: “I am deeply honoured to have been asked by Anas to join his team focussing on further education, higher education and Science.

“Over the course of the forthcoming election campaign, I look forward to engaging with students, staff, institutions and communities as we put forward our vision for education recovery.

“Anas has made clear that bringing the country together and focusing on rebuilding from Covid- 19 will be Scottish Labour’s priority not returning to old divisions.”

His skills as education convenor at East Renfrewshire Council were what attracted the new Scottish Labour leader to him.

He said everyone involved in education at the moment is living in challenging times and has promised to listen to students, staff and institutions.

Councillor O’Kane added: “As we recover from Covid-19 we need a plan to support our schools, colleges and universities and crucially learners who have lost out on face to face teaching due to the pandemic.

“We n e e d further investment to ensure that no student is adversely impacted as a result of these difficult times.

“Ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn whether at college, university or in their communities will be key.”