The SNP has announced the passing of Scottish government minister Christina McKelvie at the age of 57.
McKelvie, the minister responsible for drugs and alcohol policy, took a step back from her responsibilities last summer following her announcement regarding treatment for secondary breast cancer.
She passed away at Glasgow Royal Infirmary on Thursday morning.
Keith Brown, McKelvie’s partner and SNP depute leader, expressed that she was a cherished mother to two sons, a devoted partner, and a grandmother who “lit up every room she was in with her positivity and bright smile”.
McKelvie has served as the MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse since May 2011, having first been elected as a representative for Central Scotland in 2007.
She overcame breast cancer in 2021, yet received a diagnosis of secondary breast cancer in June.
First Minister John Swinney expressed his profound sorrow upon hearing the news, characterizing McKelvie as “one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever met in my life”.
The Scottish National Party has bid farewell to one of its most distinguished members, and I find myself mourning the departure of an exceptional minister from my government.
McKelvie served as the equalities minister from 2008 until 2023. She subsequently held the position of minister for culture, Europe, and international development before transitioning to the drugs and alcohol portfolio in 2024.
Hailing from Easterhouse in Glasgow, she began her career as a social worker in the city prior to her transition into the political arena. She was a dedicated member of the SNP for many years and actively involved with Unison as a trade unionist.
Nicola Sturgeon, the former first minister, characterized McKelvie as “kind, loyal, compassionate and full of life,” further remarking, “She had the biggest heart of anyone I have ever known.”
A moment of silence was observed in the Holyrood chamber, with the parliament’s flags being flown at half-mast.
Source: BBC
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