Community councillors play ‘vital role’ in local democracy
Nominations are open again for people wishing to join a community council.
NOMINATIONS are now open in the by-elections for Shetland’s vacant community council seats.
A total of 43 seats remain unfilled across the isles following last year’s main election and people now have another chance to apply to participate in local democracy and decision-making.
Nomination forms have to be submitted to Shetland Islands Council’s returning officer by 4pm on 7 February.
Dunrossness Community Council has the most seats to fill – six – while Delting and Gulberwick, Quarff & Cunningsburgh have five.
Only Skerries, Fetlar and Sandsting and Aithsting have their full complement.
Shetland Islands Council convener Malcolm Bell said: “Community councillors play a vital role in local democracy in that they represent and can champion their local areas.
“Community councils work best when all seats are filled and the area is fully represented. Sitting on a community council is also an excellent opportunity for those who might be considering standing for Shetland Islands Council at the next election.
“I urge anyone who is interested in the future of their locality to consider putting their name forward for these by-elections.”
Nomination forms can be found on the Shetland Islands Council website.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.