Irvine’s MSP will chair Holyrood’s human rights committee.

Ruth Maguire MSP has been appointed as the new Convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Equalities and Human Rights Committee – replacing Christina McKelvie MSP following her recent ministerial appointment to the Scottish Government.

As part of the committee’s current business, Ruth will oversee consideration of the Age of Criminal Responsibility (Scotland) Bill, and an inquiry into how the Scottish Parliament can further adopt the best possible approaches when considering human rights issues. In addition, the committee will also examine the implications for equalities and human rights in Scotland following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.

Speaking after the appointment, Ruth said: “It is an exciting time to take the lead on the Equality and Human Rights Committee, and I’d like to thank my predecessor Christina McKelvie and wish her well in her new role as Minister for Older People and Equalities. I very much look forward to the challenging and important work ahead.”