An MSP has lodged a formal motion in the Scottish Parliament to mark International Electricians’ Day 2026 and recognise the profession’s huge contribution to not only the local economy but its environmental efforts.
The SNP’s Colin Beattie tabled the declaration ahead of the event tomorrow (June 10), which will celebrate Europe’s 2.7 million electrotechnical professionals, using the motion to recognise what he called their “essential” contribution to delivering Scotland’s transition to net zero.
He also used the opportunity to commend trade body SELECT for its ongoing support – and highlight the need to tackle the ongoing skills shortage in the industry.
In his motion on the Scottish Parliament website, the member for Midlothian North notes that the Parliament “recognises International Electricians’ Day, which is marked annually on 10 June to highlight the contribution of electrical professionals.
“The Parliament acknowledges the vital role that electricians play across Scotland in designing, installing and maintaining electrical systems that keep homes powered, public services operational, hospitals functioning and businesses productive and commends electricians and electrical contractors working across Scotland for their contribution to communities and the economy.
“It also recognises the contribution of SELECT, the trade association for the electrical contracting industry in Scotland, in supporting the profession, promoting skills development and maintaining high standards across the sector.”
The motion was supported by ten other MSPSs and also notes that the Parliament “recognises that electricians are essential to delivering Scotland’s transition to net zero, including through the rollout of renewable energy, electrification of heat and transport and the modernisation of buildings and infrastructure.
“It also notes with concern the ongoing skills shortages within the electrical profession and the need to attract and retain new apprentices and adult trainees and notes calls for the Scottish Government, employers and training providers to continue to promote careers in the electrical trades and support apprenticeships and skills development to meet future needs.”
Sharon Miller, the new MD at SELECT, expressed her organisation’s gratitude to Mr Beattie for highlighting such an important day, adding: “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.
“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.”
