ROBERT Burns can help pull Scotland through tough economic times, the First Minister said yesterday.
The 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland's national Bard would create a "wonderful" tourism opportunity, said Alex Salmond.
"We need to ensure Scotland becomes a more successful country, mitigating the downturn and leading the recovery," he
said.
"As we enter the new year, a wonderful opportunity presents itself to turn a threatened tourism downturn into a visitor boom."
The Homecoming Scotland events surrounding the anniversary would be a "marvellous celebration of all things Scottish", Mr Salmond said in his New Year message.
This included Burns himself, golf, whisky, heritage, and Scotland's scientific achievements.
In an upbeat address he acknowledged the deepening economic gloom but insisted a spirit of optimism would help Scotland through.
"For many people, 2009 will be an enormous challenge, with the full impact of the economic downturn starting to bite," said Mr Salmond.
"At times like this, therefore, it is even more important that we pull together as a nation.
"The economic storm clouds are gathering. But I know that we will weather this storm – and emerge even stronger, and well placed to prosper."
He said the Scottish Government's economic recovery plan would help families and business by accelerating investment, and boosting spending on fighting fuel poverty.
This would mean almost £70 million for councils to freeze the council tax.
"We need to ensure Scotland becomes a more successful country, mitigating the downturn and leading the recovery," said the First Minister.
The Homecoming Scotland programme would include more than 300 events across the country and throughout the year, from the world's biggest clan gathering in Edinburgh to the Burns-inspired Celtic Connections programme in Glasgow.
Mr Salmond went on: "Homecoming is a chance for Scotland's international family, and all who feel an affinity for our nation, to come back and reconnect with our heritage while also learning what being a citizen in Scotland in the 21st century actually means.
"I believe there is a spirit of optimism abroad that will pull us through the hard times, that will see Scotland take her rightful place in the world, and right now will encourage people to return to Scotland for our Year of Homecoming."
