BBC Scotland News reporter Angus Cochrane announced the passing of Scottish government minister Christina McKelvie at the age of 57. McKelvie, who served as the drugs and alcohol policy minister, had taken a step back from her ministerial duties last summer after revealing her battle with secondary breast cancer. She tragically passed away at Glasgow Royal Infirmary on Thursday morning. McKelvie’s partner, SNP depute leader Keith Brown, described her as a cherished mother to two sons, a partner, and a grandmother who brought brightness and positivity to every room she entered with her infectious smile.
McKelvie had been representing Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse since her election as an MSP in May 2011, initially serving as a Central Scotland representative in 2007. Despite overcoming breast cancer in 2021, she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in June. The news of her passing led to a somber moment of silence within the Holyrood chamber, with flags being flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
Former First Minister John Swinney paid tribute to McKelvie’s outstanding ministerial qualities, emphasizing her generous, kind-hearted, loyal, and light-hearted nature. Swinney expressed his party’s profound sorrow at the loss, highlighting McKelvie’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. The Scottish Parliament came together to mourn the loss of a dear colleague, with Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone leading heartfelt tributes to McKelvie.
McKelvie’s contributions to various ministerial roles over the years were acknowledged, reflecting her commitment to equality, culture, and international development before transitioning to the drugs and alcohol portfolio. A proud native of Easterhouse in Glasgow, McKelvie’s political journey began after a successful career as a social worker in the city. Tributes from political leaders across the spectrum, including former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay, and Labour leader Anas Sarwar, highlighted McKelvie’s remarkable kindness, compassion, and dedication to public service. The loss of Christina McKelvie is deeply felt across political circles, leaving a void that will not easily be filled
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