About

Political life

Ruth is a lifelong supporter of Scottish Independence holding the positions of Branch Organiser and Branch Women’s Officer within her local party prior to selection as a council candidate.

In 2012 Ruth was elected to North Ayrshire Council, representing the Irvine West Ward as a councillor. In addition to this role she was North Ayrshire Youth Champion, Chaired the Violence against women partnership and served as Cabinet Member for Finance within the SNP administration.

On 5th May 2016 Ruth was elected to represent the constituency of Cunninghame South within the Scottish Parliament. This includes the North Ayrshire based towns of Irvine, Kilwinning and Stevenston, in addition to the surrounding villages of Springside, Dreghorn, and Drybridge. Through her work as an MSP she was privileged to represent and advocate for residents, groups and businesses on a variety of issues, both at Holyrood and within the constituency.

During the last parliamentary term Ruth Convened the Equalities and Human Rights Committee, having previously served on the Local Government Committee, Social Security and Education and Skills Committees, and as a party whip for the SNP.  

Ruth was also Co-convener of the Cross-Party Group on Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Co-Convener of the Cross-Party Group on Kurdistan.

On May 6th 2021 The electorate of Cunninghame South re-elected the SNP’s Ruth to represent them as MSP in the Scottish Parliament. Ruth attended Holyrood on Thursday 13 May and was sworn in by taking the oath.

Personal Biography

Ruth was born in Inverness and went to Millburn Academy before studying for an HNC in Business Administration and Highland Studies at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. Ruth lives in Irvine, with her family.

You can keep up to date with Ruth’s activity at the links below: