This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Lifetime achievement awards
28/11/2003
Two of Scotland's finest contemporary writers received
lifetime achievement awards today from the Saltire
Society.
Culture Miniser Frank McAveety presented its first
Lifetime Achievement Award jointly to Edwin Morgan and
Robin Jenkins at the Saltire Society/Scottish Arts Council
Book of the Year Awards.
Mr McAveety said:
"I am delighted that the Saltire Society and the
Scottish Arts council have introduced this prestigious new
award in recognition of those who have made a significant
contribution to Scottish literature.
"Scotland has produced many skilled writers. Writers who
not only have national recognition but international
recognition. We are proud of our literary past. And we
should be proud of the writers of today - writers who,
through their skills, raise the prestige of Scotland's
literature at home and abroad."
Robin Jenkins was presented with a cheque for £5,000 and
Edwin Morgan was presented with a portrait commissioned
from Alastair Gray. Liz Lochhead accepted the portrait on
Mr Morgan's behalf.
The Saltire Society aims to raise awareness of Scottish
Literature, Arts and Science in Scotland and abroad.
Membership of the Society is open to all and several
large companies and bodies, including the Scottish
Executive, hold corporate membership.
The Saltire Society Literary Awards ceremony is an
annual event and the established Awards are:
- The National Library of Scotland / Saltire Society
Research Book of the Year Award
- The Royal Mail Group / Saltire Society First Book
of the Year Award
- The Saltire Society Book of the Year Award