SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has been appointed by the First Minister as the new Minister for Climate Action.
The move comes as Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, Mairi McAllan MSP, prepares to go on maternity leave, and Gillian Martin MSP, the current climate action minister, steps in to temporarily cover the Cabinet Secretary’s role.
Commenting, Alasdair Allan said:
“I am honoured to have been asked to cover, for the time being, this vacancy in government.
“This has arisen as a result of the Cabinet Secretary being on maternity leave. I wish her well for the coming weeks and months, and for every happiness for the family as they welcome their new addition.
“The role of Minister for Climate Action is one I intend to take seriously, and I look forward to working with government colleagues to ensure that we continue making progress towards achieving Net Zero while making sure policies are proportionate and suitable for all parts of Scotland.
“Having juggled the role of being both a Minister and representing my constituents as their local MSP for seven years in the past, I am looking forward to doing so again. My constituents can, of course, continue to get in touch with my office as normal with any questions, concerns or issues with which I and my team can be of assistance.”
The Western Isles MSP’s appointment as minister is subject to approval by the Scottish Parliament on Thursday 27th June.