and promotes the interests of crofting in Scotland
to secure the future of crofting.
Statement from the Crofting Commission 10 May
10/05/2016
The Board of the Crofting Commission has appointed a Constable to replace the Grazings Committee of Upper Coll, Isle of Lewis, which has been out of office since 14 April this year. The Commission, as the regulator, is required by the Crofting (Scotland) Act 1993 to follow up allegations made by shareholders in a township of financial irregularities and, until suitable explanations are provided, the Commission will continue with their investigations. This decision mirrors the action taken in other situations where Constables have been appointed to replace committees in similar situations.
Shareholders in both Upper Coll and Mangersta grazings have had letters informing them that Commissioners will meet with them on Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 May. At these meetings the current situation in each township will be explained and the Commission will work with shareholders to find the best way forward. The Commission would not wish to comment any further at this point on these live cases other than to say each case will be dealt with on its own individual circumstances and, if necessary, any findings will be passed to the appropriate authorities in due course.
The Commission would again encourage shareholders to work together to resolve any disputes they may have and would also say that shareholders and committees which adhere strictly to their own Grazings Regulations need not be concerned.
