The determination of Scots who have welcomed refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine is laudable.
It was confirmed yesterday that almost 4000 Ukrainians have arrived north of the Border since Russia launched its attack on their country.
They have fled across Europe to escape Vladimir Putin’s troops without knowing when they can return.
Scotland has thrown open its doors in a show of solidarity.
Those who cut through the mountain of red-tape could easily have given up.
The fact that they did not is to their eternal credit.
The UK Government’s visa system for refugees has rightly been criticised as slow and complex.
Perhaps more refugees could have arrived in Scotland if the process of sponsorship had been made easier.
In the meantime, though, we must make those who have arrived as welcome as possible.
The war in Ukraine has lasted just over 100 days already but as each week passes without a peaceful resolution, the number of people killed and wounded increases.
More innocent souls are left without a home or are forced into exile.
The longer that this war lasts, the higher the price that the Ukrainians must pay.
Scotland has extended the hand of friendship by offering support for thousands of displaced Ukrainians.
Those who have become sponsors – and navigated a mountain of bureaucracy in the process – deserve our respect and thanks.
Put kids first
Our children have endured a nightmare two years due to the Covid nightmare.
They now face further disruption over the threat of strike action by teachers.
Alarm bells should be ringing across government over the pay dispute.
It is now more important than ever for ministers to get round the table and have good faith discussions with union leaders.
Teachers are right to fight for a fair pay rise and the Scottish Government needs to take them seriously.
It is our children who will suffer most if an agreement can’t be reached.
They have missed so much of the most important years of their lives since coronavirus hit in March 2020, so it is vital they don’t fall further behind.
