Crofting Commission

The legislation is being set out that will ensure the upcoming Crofting Commission elections proceed smoothly in March 2017.

Draft regulations have been put before the Scottish Parliament, ahead of the planned poll to elect Commissioners to the Crofting Commission – the regulatory body for crofting.

The amended regulations cover:

• The process of appointing a new Commissioner, should a vacancy arise before 2022
• Who should be able to stand for election
• Absent and proxy votes
• The maximum amount and process for election expenses.

The regulations will make no changes to the six constituency boundaries.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity Fergus Ewing said:

“Crofting makes a vital contribution to the economy, environment and communities in Scotland’s rural areas. Next year will see the second ever elections to the Crofting Commission and it is crucial that our 16,000 crofters interests are well represented.

“This is an important time as we seek to ensure a strong and vibrant future for crofters, which is why it’s vital to have a Crofting Commission made up of people who represent and reflect the interests and diversity of Scotland’s crofting community.

“To achieve that, we need people with a commitment to ensuring a longer term future for crofting to stand for election. It’s also so important that all crofters make their voices heard by voting in March’s election.”

Crofting Commission Interim Chief Executive, Bill Barron said:

“We urge everyone eligible to vote to participate in the upcoming Crofting elections and play their part in helping to secure the future of crofting. The Crofting Commission, along with other organisations, will be holding a series of roadshows during October and November throughout the crofting counties to help crofters to find out more about the elections and the role of the Commission.”