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Rod Mackenzie has been appointed as convener of the Crofting Commission by Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing.

 

A life-long crofter, Mr Mackenzie is one of the six commissioners recently elected to the board by crofters from across the Highlands and islands.

 

The Scottish Government’s switch back to making a appointment comes after a period of chaos and infighting at the commission.

 

Commissioners themselves chose Colin Kennedy after previously demanding the right to elect the convenor from one of the board.

 

But the result kick-started a period of controversy and infighting with the crofters losing confidence in the role of the regulator.

 

Claims over abuse of power - following the sacking of three grazings committees - led to a probe into governance arrangements at the Crofting Commission.

Crofting Commission convenor appointed by Scottish Government

20 June 2017

Mr Kennedy walked out of an official meeting which had been ordered by Fergus Ewing to publicly apologise for the agency’s heavy handedness.

 

He refused to quit and lodged an official complaint against Mr Ewing.

 

Colin Kennedy was not relected as a commissioner earlier this year.

 

The new board also includes two commissioners recently appointed by ministers and one reappointment position who will also serve the crofting community in the coming years.

 

A new chief executive was also recruited.

 

Mr Ewing said the changes means crofting can look forward to a period of “stability and a positive focus on issues that will greatly improve the lives of those living in remote and rural areas.”