Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan is encouraging crofters in the Islands to stand for election to the Crofting Commission.

The Commission is responsible for helping to regulate and promote the interests of crofting, and Alasdair Allan said that this was an opportunity to bring fresh thinking directly from local crofting communities to the board.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“At present, there is no getting away from the reality of the Crofting Commission’s difficulties. Confidence in the Commission among many crofters has taken a hit of late.  That is very clear from speaking to the crofters I know.

“The upcoming elections are, I believe, a vital opportunity to ensure a new era at the Crofting Commission. With a newly elected Commission, hopefully a line can be drawn under the issues that have plagued it over the past year and everyone can now focus their energies on building a better future for crofting.

“It is vital that these issues are properly debated and that a positive working relationship between crofters and their regulatory body can be developed. For this reason, I would urge all island crofters to make their voices heard in March’s election.”

Crofters can get a nomination pack from the Comhairle’s returning officer. The deadline for returning nominations is Thursday 26 January and the deadline for returning ballot papers is Thursday 16 March. Results will be announced on 17 March.