Cabinet Reshuffle - Homelessness Task Force momentum must be maintained

The cabinet reshuffle by new First Minister Jack McConnell sees a new Social Justice Minister, Iain Gray, to replace Jackie Baillie.

SCSH Director, Robert Aldridge, comments:

"This change of Minister comes at a crucial time, as the Homelessness Task Force is near to completing its final report. We are fortunate that Iain Gray will take on the responsibility for this aspect of the work, given his track record both in the voluntary sector and campaigning for social justice.

He added:

"We expect the Task Force report to contain some far reaching proposals which could make a significant difference to homelessness in Scotland. I hope that Iain Gray will continue the momentum for substantial change begun with the Housing Scotland Act earlier this year.

Jackie Baillie has chaired the Task Force since its inception helping to shape its recommendations. Her personal commitment to it and the assurance from the Executive that the Housing Act was only the first step were extremely important.

Iain Gray will now take on the challenging role of finalising the report’s recommendations and championing them through cabinet. This next step is crucial if we are to tackle homelessness effectively."

Notes

1. Scottish Council for Single Homeless (SCSH) is the national membership body for organisations and individuals tackling homelessness.
2. Robert Aldridge is a member of the Homelessness Task Force led by the Scottish Executive.