By Nujma Bond

(L-R) Head of the Scottish Government in Canada John Devine, British High Commissioner Robert Tinline

The British High Commissioner to Canada and the Head of the Scottish Government in Canada hosted a lovely St. Andrew’s Day event this fall to celebrate the traditions and ties that forever bind England, Scotland, and this country. Members of the SSO had a delightful time mingling with guests and celebrating in late November.

The Scottish flag was on full display, and tasty traditional treats were beautifully presented upon entering the stately venue. Special guests included Scottish community representatives and friends, some dressed in tartan and all of whom looked on and cheered with a celebratory drink in hand as a talented piper heralded the arrival of the hosts and principal representatives, the Head of the Scottish Government in Canada, Mr. John Devine, and the British High Commissioner, Mr. Robert Tinline.

Tinline has been British High Commissioner to Canada since February 2025. He greeted the crowd by welcoming everyone and started with a fine British sense of humour when he quipped about what he called the high point in recent Scottish history: “Scotland qualified for the football world cup!” he said, to a roar of laughter and a round of clapping. “It was a real moment…” he added.

“The ties between Scotland and Canada are really diverse, strong, and obviously go back over many, many years and decades,” Tinline remarked in all seriousness. “It’s a pleasure to be able to celebrate them with all of you!”

John Devine also shared welcoming words about the friendship the two countries share. “One of the strongest bonds between Scotland and Canada is between our parliaments and assemblies,” he said, noting his gratefulness in seeing some of Canada’s parliamentarians present at the evening event.

He also thanked SSO Chair Donald Macdonald, “for all that you do to keep warm and thriving the links between Scotland and Canada.” Devine pointed to key events over the past year, including the first ever Scottish government visit to Manitoba; joining with Air Canada as the airline announced its new direct flight from Montreal to Edinburgh; and, welcoming the increase in Scotch whisky exports to Canada. There were also meetings with financial institutions with significant investments in Scotland, and visits to small businesses in Nova Scotia that are using Gaelic as part of their business practices.

Lastly, Devine went on to share some of his own humorous reflections over his nearly four years in his role as Head of Government. “I’ve learned important things about living in Canada…” he said. Among others: “You should order your assorted Timbits without ‘plain’!” he joked, the crowd laughing as he shared a couple more observations. Devine expressed his enjoyment in visiting many paces across the country and meeting many generous and hospitable Canadians.

After the heartfelt remarks by both gentlemen, the camaraderie and sampling of food and drink continued into the evening - an enjoyable time was had by all!

This was Devine’s last St. Andrew’s celebration as the Head of the Scottish Government in Canada, with his role coming to a close later in 2026. It was Tinline’s first time celebrating this significant Scottish occasion in Ottawa. As British High Commissioner to Canada, he also oversees consulates in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary.

Celebrating St. Andrew’s Day with British government leaders in Ottawa