and promotes the interests of crofting in Scotland
to secure the future of crofting.
Crofting Commission elect new Convener
24/06/2015
The Crofting Commission today announced the election of Colin Kennedy as its new Convener.
The secret ballot, overseen by the Crofting Commission’s Chief Executive, came following the delegation of the selection of the new Convener to Commissioners by Scotland’s Crofting Minister Aileen McLeod.
A vote was taken after the Commission’s Board meeting today. Colin will take up the post of Convener until March 31, 2017, covering the remaining tenure for the current Board.
Dr McLeod said:
“I would like to congratulate Colin Kennedy on being selected the new Convener of the Crofting Commission, the first time that this decision has been delegated to the Commissioners. I would also like to congratulate I G Macdonald on his appointment as Vice-Convener.
“When I met with the Crofting Commission last month I said that I wanted to work constructively and collaboratively with them - so I am very pleased to have been able to support their proposal on the selection of a new Convener. As this vacancy falls in-term, it makes sense to allow the Commissioners to elect their own Convener from within the existing team on this occasion.
“These appointments mark a fresh start for the Commission, and I look forward to continuing to work constructively with the new Convener and his colleagues in the months and weeks ahead.”
Mr Kennedy said “I would like to thank the Commissioners for voting me in to the role of Convener. I am looking forward to working with the Board and staff in delivering the express will of Parliament contained in crofting legislation and effectively regulating crofting.”
Chief Executive of the Commission Catriona Maclean commented “The Commissioners worked with the Scottish Government to find the best approach for appointing a new Convener for both the organisation and for crofting as a whole. I am looking forward to working with Colin in his new role and I am sure staff will give Colin every support in taking the Commission forward.”
Mr Kennedy was elected as Commissioner for the South West Highlands in 2012. Colin lives on the Isle of Coll and is an active crofter. His interests on the croft include keeping livestock, holiday cottages and renewables.
Dr McLeod has also permitted the Commission to continue with the remaining complement of eight Commissioners and the workload being shared amongst them.
Commissioners voted in Ian George MacDonald as Vice Convener.
