AN MP has launched an internship to honour the memory of an SNP activist who tragically died aged just 34.
Amy Callaghan, the MP for East Dunbartonshire, has introduced the John Clark Internship which aims to make a career in politics more accessible to people from working-class backgrounds.
John Clark, from the Kirklandneuk area of Renfrew, died while on a dream holiday to Denver, Colorado.
The 34-year-old worked as a taxi driver before getting into politics and was the office manager for then-finance secretary Derek Mackay at the time of his death.
Clark served on the SNP’s ruling body, the National Executive Committee and was described as a “true giant of a man” by Nicola Sturgeon.
The internship aims to promote people from backgrounds like Clark’s to get into politics, said Callaghan.
She encouraged people who were returning to the world of work after an absence or those who were looking for their first step into politics to apply.
Callaghan said: “John Clark was a dedicated and hard-working guy who followed an unconventional route into politics. He was passionate about giving back to his community, helping those who need it most and creating a brighter future for Scotland.
“I hope this internship can give others the same break in politics that John received. The hours and tasks will be flexible, tailored to the needs and interests of the successful applicant. Over twelve weeks, the intern will get an insight into life in a busy political office, and they will pick up the necessary skills to take their next step in politics.
“John’s life can be an inspiration for others. He showed that politics is not, and should not, be reserved to a select few.”
You can find out more on the SNP's website.
