Friday, October 9, 2015

Nicola Sturgeon pays respects to Hamilton medical receptionist Ann McQuire killed in Tunisia

The First Minister paid her respects to those killed in the terrorist incident as she signed a book of condolence before observing a national minute’s silence to remember the victims.

Ms Sturgeon was leading the tributes to Ann and Jim McQuire, who were killed in the terror attack last month.
Mrs McQuire was a part-time medical receptionist at Cadzow Medical Centre in Hamilton.
The First Minister paid her respects to those killed in the terrorist incident as she signed a book of condolence before observing a national minute’s silence to remember the victims.
Ann (64) and her husband Jim (67) had flown to Tunisia from Glasgow on Sunday, June 21, on a late deal.
The devoted couple from Cumbernauld were among the Britons killed by a gunman in the resort of Sousse.
They were both shot on the beach. Ann died on the spot and Jim passed away in hospital shortly afterwards.
Ms Sturgeon joined local representatives at the headquarters of North Lanarkshire Council to observe the silence and pay her own tribute to James and Ann and all of the other victims who were tragically killed while on holiday.
The First Minister said: “Today is a day to remember all of the victims of this senseless and cowardly terrorist attack and my thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences are with their families and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“I hope that the families of James and Ann McQuire, from Cumbernauld, and Billy and Lisa Graham, from Bankfoot, can take some comfort from the fact that right across Scotland people have come together to condemn these mindless acts and pay respects to their loved ones during today’s minute’s silence – just as I hope all the bereaved families will take comfort from the expression of solidarity right across the UK.
“We will continue to offer all the support we possibly can to those affected and I hope now that the privacy of the families will be respected in order that they can mourn their loss in peace.”
A book of condolence was placed at North Lanarkshire Council headquarters in Windmillhill Street, Motherwell to allow members of the public to write tributes.
The message from the First Minister said: “With deepest condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in the atrocity in Tunisia. Scotland stands with you in love and solidarity.”
Provost Jim Robertson said: “Flags on council buildings have flown at half-mast as a mark of respect since the scale of the tragedy and the impact on the area became clear.