Every corner of the globe has an expatriate Scot or Islander still holding great fondness for their mother country. Whether it be America, Australia or Canada, Scots were and still are held with great affection and welcomed into new communities.

Since the enlargement of the European Union, it has been Scotland's turn to welcome citizens from the new EU member states into our communities. Our hard working Eastern European friends are not only benefiting business and industry with their skills but enriching the diverse cultural tapestry of Scotland.

Rural Scotland has experienced a decline in population over many years but the introduction of skilled, enthusiastic workers will boost workforces, school roles and communities as a whole. A very welcome change.

The people of Scotland and the Western Isles are a hospitable and welcoming people who have a long tradition of welcoming immigrants and emigrants onto our shores. I welcome our Eastern European friends to the Western Isles and hope that soon they will share the love I have for this Gaelic heartland.

Angus MacNeil MP

Since the enlargement of the European Union, Scotland has been in the fortunate position of being able to welcome citizens and business from the many new member states of the EU. This is of benefit not only to the businesses of all countries within the new EU but also leads to a more diverse and unique society. I have noticed a simple illustration of this in my time representing the Western Isles in the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh - if anyone cares to take a stroll down Leith Walk in Edinburgh, they will almost certainly be rewarded through the many wonderful foods and cultures that are on offer.

There has been a long tradition of Eastern European people coming to live and work in Scotland during the summer months, but now they have the opportunity to come and live and work here permenantly.

Poles are well known for their hard work ethic, their willingness to integrate into Scottish society and their own unique attitude that they bring. All of these attributes make them a welcome addition to Scottish society.

With a declining population in many places in Scotland, the relative youth and high standard of education many Poles have received ensure that the Scottish workforce enlarges and gains new experience.

Scotland has always been a country of immigrants and emigrants, our hospitality is world renowned and any Eastern European who wishes to come here to work will be always be made welcome with a warm fire and a dram in their glass.

Alasdair Allan MSP