Two of Orkney’s Councillors have been appointed to senior roles within CoSLA, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities.
James Stockan, Leader of Orkney Islands Council, will lead CoSLA’s Independent Group, while Steven Heddle has been appointed as CoSLA’s spokesperson on the environment and economy.
The Independent Group represents Scotland’s independent councillors at CoSLA, six of whom are the Leaders of their councils.
Councillor Stockan said: “I am very pleased that we have been appointed to these high level posts within the organisation which provides a voice for local government in Scotland.
“It means we can ensure that an islands perspective is always heard as part of the national decision making process.
“I firmly believe that this, along with the continuing work of the Our Islands Our Future Campaign, will be beneficial for Orkney Islands Council and the wider community we serve.”
Councillor Heddle said: “As CoSLA’s environment and economy spokesperson, I will be working to develop consensus between political groups and act as COSLA' s primary point of contact with Government on this particular remit.
“I am delighted to join James as part of the leadership of local government nationally. This demonstrates the continuing standing of the Islands Councils within local government, and we will work hard in the interests of all those we represent.”
