Chamber debate: National Parks

Linda spoke in the debate on 4 November 2009.

“I look at the principles and objectives of our two national parks as written and followed in the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Those of the Cairngorms talk about conserving and enhancing biodiversity and landscapes, as well as sustainable deer management, which is very particular to that area. The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs national park recognises that it represents some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and reflects Scotland’s identity through the natural and cultural heritage that it promotes and protects. So we start from a good base of what national parks are about.

However…also behind the national park designations and their progress were issues such as the economic and social development of communities. Our national parks are about people, as well as wildlife and landscapes.”

To read the full text of Linda’s speech, go to http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/officialReports/meetingsParliament/or-09/sor1104-02.htm#Col20803