and promotes the interests of crofting in Scotland
to secure the future of crofting.
Counting the Contribution to Crofting
22/01/2015
The Crofting Commission is reminding crofters to complete and return their Crofting Census forms, if they have not already done so. The completion deadline for the Census was on Friday 16 January 2015 and the Commission will be sending out reminders in the coming weeks, to those still yet to return their Census forms, advising crofters of their legal obligations.
The Crofting Commission has undertaken an unprecedented data gathering exercise across the crofting community. Crofters are legally obliged to complete the census forms in full and return them to the Crofting Commission. The Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 requires crofters to complete the Crofting Census each year and if they fail to provide the information without reasonable cause, by the date shown, or knowingly provide false information they will be guilty of an offence under this Act.
The Crofting Census forms have been well received with many crofters seeing the benefit to providing the information and helping to establish a clear picture of the current state of crofting. The Commission have so far received over 12,000 completed forms.
The Census has provided crofters with the opportunity to gain a better understanding of their responsibilities in fulfilling their duties. With some crofters being encouraged to look at their current situation and consider the options available to them to utilise their land more effectively. The Census, and supporting Guidance Notes, highlight various possibilities available to crofters in complying with their duties.
The Commission has set up a dedicated helpline, 01463 663404, and the Census team are on hand to support crofters in completing their Census forms and to answer any questions they may have.
The annual Crofting Census will allow the Commission to gather an evidence base which will grow year on year, helping to develop the case for crofting. The Census allows crofters to contribute to shaping the future of their crofting community.
Crofting Minister Aileen McLeod said: “I welcome the action being taken by the Crofting Commission to encourage crofters across the country to return their Crofting Census forms and meet their legal obligations. The information collected from the Census will contribute towards the work of the Crofting Commission in effectively regulating crofting.”
“It is extremely important that we have an accurate understanding of the current profile and wellbeing of crofting. This will help ensure that the best policies are developed to deliver a bright future for generations to come and secure a prosperous and sustainable future for crofting – something we all want to see.”
Crofting Commission Convener, Susan Walker said “The Crofting Census will allow the Commission to gather an evidence base on the value of crofting and I would encourage crofters to complete the forms in full, answering all of the mandatory questions. The Census forms are quick and easy to complete and come with comprehensive guidance notes. If crofters require any support or guidance in completing their Census forms I would urge them to contact the Census team at the Commission or visit our website.”
