While born in the California west, the Western Isles is home. It is here that I croft
and maintain active involvement in community-based projects, whether on Bernera or
with your local horticultural producers. Council governance belongs at the fore of
improving day-to-day lives of communities. I will convey the will and aspirations
of this ward's various communities.
But the Comhairle faces difficult budget decisions: investment in a sustainable model
to ensure our islands' long-term well-being should be a priority - whether in education
or transport, the energy sector or with crofting.
We should strive to be increasingly self-reliant and less dependent on vagaries outwith
our control. That can mean moving quicker to establish a hydrogen-powered fleet of
public transport. The Comhairle should help enable willing communities and villages
to establish their own electricity supplies, whether wind, wave, tidal, or hydro.
Productive crofts need active crofters; and crofters today -- as in history -- need
employment that permits flexible working hours. Opportunities for protected half-time
working arrangements should be pursued. The Comhairle, our largest employer, should
set the example. Let's address the 'work-crofting' balance.
These isles remain a remarkable place to live within safe, stable, often supportive
local communities. Amid largely immaculate, scenic countryside on the Atlantic fringe,
we have a rich tradition from which we can benefit -- adapting at the same time for
the challenges of the 21st century.
Barry Shelby, Independent
Sgir' Uige Agus Ceann a Tuath Nan Loch / Uig & North Lochs
