SCOTLAND’S political leaders are under fresh pressure to commit to a just and green recovery from Covid-19 ahead of May’s election. 

Campaigners representing 80 organisations — including churches, charities, trade unions and community groups — have written to parties stating any attempt to go “back to normal” after this epidemic is misguided, saying that most would argue that “normal” was never good enough. 

Instead, they say radical change putting people before profit is key to a comprehensive recovery that takes seriously the climate crisis and inequality. 

Caroline Rance of Friends of the Earth Scotland said: “We’re calling on all parties to commit to a fair and green recovery that creates thousands of decent green jobs to replace jobs lost due to the pandemic, reduce climate emissions and revitalise our communities. 

“That means investing in jobs-training programmes, public transport and renewable energy to lay the foundations for the better, greener future we want in Scotland while playing our part in tackling the climate crisis.”

The groups say the crisis that we face in the aftermath of the coronavirus must see investment in public services. And workers’ rights must be prioritised as funding is provided to support jobs and wealth redistributed to those most marginalised in society. 

Unison Scotland deputy convener Stephen Smellie said: “Covid has shown us just what jobs are essential to keep society running — but all too often they are low paid or insecure. 

“After Covid we have to build a more resilient society. That will mean protecting the services vital to the public and ensuring those who provide them are valued all the time — not just in a crisis.”