The 800th anniversary of Dumbarton as a Royal Burgh has been ignored by the Scottish Parliament, it has been claimed.
Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie made the comments, as she hit out at Holyrood for a lack of fanfare.
Having written to Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Angus Robertson, earlier in the year, she again pressed him on the issue during a Scottish Parliament question session last week.
Despite again asking what the Scottish Government would do to mark the special milestone, the Cabinet Secretary told how the Rock of Ages event held in the grounds of Dumbarton Castle in summer was themed on ‘Dumbarton 800’.
Cabinet Secretary for the constitution, external affairs and culture, Mr Robertson, said: “I hope that Jackie Baillie is pleased when I say that the Scottish Government recognises the significance of the 800th anniversary of Dumbarton becoming a royal burgh.
“Being able to connect with local history is important for the health and wellbeing of Scotland’s communities, as well as for our national identity.
“I am pleased that this year’s Rock of Ages event, themed for Dumbarton 800, was such a successful part of the official celebrations.
“Historic Environment Scotland, which worked on that project with the anniversary organisers, are happy to explore future events with West Dunbartonshire Council and the community.”
However the Labour member hit back, saying: “I take it from that response that there is nothing going on now. I have written to the cabinet secretary about this before. Dumbarton castle is closed and covered in scaffolding.
“The Rock of Ages event had its second day cancelled due to the weather.
“The 800-year celebration amounted to a tannoy announcement.
“This would be a hugely significant event for any town, but the Scottish Government does not appear to want to celebrate it.
“I am sure that the cabinet secretary does not wish to imply that there is any snub to the good people of Dumbarton, so let me give him another chance to say what he will do.”
Mr Robertson replied by saying that inspection work on Dumbarton Castle was now complete, with its reopening to be decided after a review this month.
The exchange between the Dumbarton MSP and Mr Robertson coincided with West Dunbartonshire Council announcing the latest in their celebratory events to mark the 800th anniversary.
Speaking afterwards, Jackie said: “I am proud that my Scottish Labour colleagues at West Dunbartonshire Council have arranged a programme of events to mark the 800th anniversary.
“I also look forward to hearing more from Historic Environment Scotland about the reopening of Dumbarton Castle next month.”
