Can you explain your motivation for wanting to become an MSP?
I AM passionate about making sure that the next generation of Shetlanders benefit from the kind of opportunities I had when I was growing up here. I would like Shetland to tackle the climate emergency, eliminate fuel poverty, build a fairer society and prioritise wellbeing.
What was the first event or thing that got you into politics?
I HAVE been interested in politics for as long as I can remember, but it was a phone call from my friend Miriam Brett that persuaded me to put myself forward as a candidate for the Holyrood by-election last year. I decided it was time for me to be more active and do my bit to change the system. I studied in Norway and I’m very aware of how different things could be in Scotland, with the powers to manage our public resources in the public interest.
What’s your career experience beyond politics?
I AM a marine engineer and have spent 12 years working on wave and tidal power projects in Scotland and overseas, but in Shetland I’ve also worked on a wildlife tour boat, in restaurants and in the local fish factories.
Why should the people of your constituency vote for you in May?
SHETLAND needs change and renewal. As Brexit Britain slides in a regressive, right-wing direction, we have a choice to build a fairer, greener and more prosperous country – one more like our Nordic neighbours and less like the USA. I was born and raised here and would listen to and represent all Shetlanders regardless of politics.
If you’re elected, what do you hope to achieve?
MY most immediate priority would be to help our community heal and renew itself as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic. Shetland has huge potential and is full of community-minded folk who need to be supported to help the isles flourish. There’s work to do in every sector. I’d like to see more local control of fisheries and I am particularly keen to help Shetland get to net-zero carbon emissions and create good local jobs for young people and those transitioning from the oil and gas sector.
With the powers of independence, what’s the one thing about Scotland you would change?
WE need to restructure our economy to put people and the planet first.
Tell us something unusual about yourself?
I AM a keen surfer, which I guess is unusual here, given the sea temperature. I speak French and Spanish, thanks to an Erasmus year in France (an opportunity I want the next generation to have) and spent four years working in South America. I met my Chilean wife Andrea there. Our son is an unusual mix!
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