THE Highland Greens have said they are “extremely worried” about the “state of disinterest” in local democracy following the election of three councillors without opposition in the run-up to local elections.
The elections do not take place until May 5. However, in the Barraigh agus Bhatarsaigh and Sgìr Ùige agus Carlabhagh wards, only one candidate stood in each leading to their respective victories prior to voting taking place.
Similarly, in the three-seat North Isles ward, only two candidates stood leading to the same situation. Those elected will be in post until 2027. In addition, there are at least three wards where by-elections will be held due to a lack of candidates coming forward.
The Highland Greens party said they were pleased to announce the appointment of one of their standing candidates, Andrew Baldrey, who will be representing Caol & Mallaig. However, Anne Thomas, Black Isle Candidate and Highland Greens Communications Co-ordinator added that: “In a healthy, robust democratic system, many people should seek to represent and serve their community.
“The fact not enough people stood in Caol and Mallaig to trigger an election is a symptom of our democratic system’s fragility.”
Thomas stated that one reason for this is down to the undervaluation of the job of councillors, and the lack of power allocated to them to make changes for their local communities.
She added: “Unlike our MPs and MSPs, councillors don’t have funds to hire staff. They are doing the job alone and civil servants don’t have enough time to adequately help. Councillors are also under-protected, as most recently demonstrated by the attack on Green Councillor Pippa Hadley and her subsequent motion to Council strengthening protection measures.
“Finally, councillors are underpaid, meaning people who rely on a full income to support themselves or their families struggle to afford to stand. In those conditions, it’s no wonder people don’t come forward to serve.”
Scotland’s last council elections in 2017 had a voter turnout of 46.9%, in comparison to Scottish turnout for the UK’s 2017 general election which sat at 66.4%.
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