A motion recognising the contribution of electricians and electrical contractors has been lodged in the Scottish Parliament ahead of International Electricians’ Day on 10 June.
The motion, submitted by SNP MSP Colin Beattie, highlights the role of electricians in supporting communities, businesses, public services, and Scotland’s transition to net zero.
It also acknowledges the work of SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade body, in promoting skills development and professional standards across the electrical industry.
International Electricians’ Day celebrates the work of an estimated 2.7 million electrotechnical professionals across Europe.
In the motion, Beattie states that Parliament “recognises International Electricians’ Day, which is marked annually on 10 June to highlight the contribution of electrical professionals.”
The motion further notes the role electricians play in “designing, installing, and maintaining electrical systems that keep homes powered, public services operational, hospitals functioning, and businesses productive.”
It also recognises electricians and electrical contractors for their contribution to Scotland’s economy and local communities.
Parliamentary motion highlights industry skills challenge
The motion acknowledges the importance of electricians in delivering projects linked to renewable energy, heat electrification, transport electrification, and wider infrastructure modernisation.
It also highlights concerns around skills shortages within the profession and the need to attract and retain apprentices and adult trainees.
According to the motion, there is a need for government, employers, and training providers to continue promoting careers in the electrical industry and supporting apprenticeship programmes.
Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “We are very grateful that Mr Beattie has highlighted this important day, which is being promoted by our friends at EuropeOn, the European voice of the electrical contracting industry, with the message ‘Skilled Hands, Resilient Europe’.
“It is very timely that the Scottish Parliament is helping to celebrate the men and women who not only keep the lights burning and wheels turning across the country, but are integral to the administration’s ongoing commitment to building a greener, fairer society.”
Support continues for electrical industry regulation campaign
Sharon also highlights the industry’s ongoing recruitment challenges, noting, “However, as the motion states, we must also be aware of the challenges the sector faces, including skills shortages and the need to attract and retain new apprentices and adult trainees, an issue on which SELECT has consistently campaigned.”
Beattie has previously supported SELECT’s campaign for the regulation of electricians, which seeks legal protection for the title of electrician to prevent unqualified individuals from carrying out work under the designation.
The motion has received support from 10 other MSPs since being lodged on 29 May. Recent signatories include newly elected MSPs David Barratt and Lloyd Melville, who have also added their names to SELECT’s Wall of Support initiative.
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