Published: Wednesday, 8th October, 2008 12:30
Wee County could partner Nova Scotia
By Nicola Findlay
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SNP group leader Councillor Donald Balsillie would like to see some link established between Nova Scotia and Clackmannanshire.
A PARTNERSHIP between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia in Canada could bring lasting benefits both culturally and economically.
SNP Councillor Donald Balsillie believes there are opportunities to forge links across the Atlantic, particularly using new technology such as the internet.
Clackmannanshire has historical links with Nova Scotia as its founder William Alexander, the first Earl of Stirling, was born in Menstrie Castle, and Mr Balsillie believes the Wee County should use this link to its full advantage.
He also feels that Clackmannanshire Council should work with Stirling Council, who have already established links with Nova Scotia.
He told the Advertiser, “The key thing that I would suggest is that we work in partnership with Stirling Council.
“Clackmannanshire was approached some time ago about a partnership with Nova Scotia but it was never followed up.
“I believe that we should be looking at this now as the founding father of Nova Scotia was William Alexander and we have very strong historical connections that would lend to a joint partnership with Stirling.”
Mr Balsillie went on, “One of the barriers in the past has been the long distances involved.
“However with new technologies there are clearly great opportunities for Clackmannanshire and Stirling to make best use of its cultural links and celebrate past history.”
There is also strong support in Nova Scotia among dignitaries and business people to create a partnership, which would bring mutual benefits developing closer economic, educational and cultural ties.
Ian Russell, who is originally from Alloa but moved to Nova Scotia five years ago, has been working closely with businesses in Nova Scotia and also dignitaries to try and establish a partnership.
He told the Advertiser, “There is no county more important to Nova Scotia in the UK than Clackmannanshire.
“The founder of Nova Scotia, William Alexander, was born in Menstrie Castle, and on 29 September 1621 the Charter of Nova Scotia was given the Royal Seal, conveying the area to the 1st Earl of Stirling.
“Clackmannanshire has to be the most logical place to partner with because the person who created Nova Scotia came from Menstrie – without him there would be no Nova Scotia.
“We have already had delegations from Stirling Council in Nova Scotia, including the Provost Fergus Wood, which proved hugely successful.
“However, nothing would give me greater pleasure than seeing Clackmannanshire get involved in a partnership with us.
“A partnership would be about working with each other in education, tourism and business. We want to bring business to Clackmannanshire and vice versa, and want to get the whole community involved.”
Ian has also been involved in discussions with the Queen’s representative in Nova Scotia, Lieutenant Governor Mayann Francis, who is keen to visit Clackmannanshire as part of a delegation and Ian is hopeful that a visit will take place next year.
Ian also believes that Homecoming 2009 would be an ideal opportunity to develop ties between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia further.
“We had a visit from Gordon Banks MP and he did a great job in his role as an ambassador for Clackmannanshire, but we need to take that next step,” added Ian.
“I really can’t praise Mr Banks enough as he sells Clackmannanshire better than anyone.
“Our Premier Rodney MacDonald was very impressed and is very supportive of a partnership between Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia, particularly during Homecomimg 2009.”
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