News / Wishart announced as Lib Dem candidate in by-election
THE SCOTTISH Liberal Democrats have announced Beatrice Wishart will be standing as their Scottish Parliamentary candidate for Shetland.
Wishart, depute convener of Shetland Islands Council and representative of the Lerwick South ward, is a trustee of Women’s Aid in Shetland and is an active WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) campaigner.
Over the last decade Wishart has run the office of MP for Orkney & Shetland Alistair Carmichael and supported the work of former Shetland MSP Tavish Scott.
Wishart said on Sunday: “I am thrilled to be standing as the Liberal Democrat candidate in Shetland. I’ve lived and worked in Shetland most of my life and I’m keenly aware of the issues that need to be addressed.
“Islanders want to see fair funding for our ferries, more NHS services provided at home in Shetland, swift improvements to broadband coverage and all nurseries being given the resources and support they need to increase the amount of childcare available in our communities.
“I will be a tireless champion for Shetland. It’s an honour to be given the opportunity to stand to represent my home.”
Former Shetland MSP Tavish Scott said he was delighted that Wishart would represent the Liberal Democrats in the forthcoming contest for the Shetland seat. “
“She is a Shetlander and an islander through and through,” he said.
“Beatrice has all the qualities needed to be a committed representative of Shetland people in the Scottish Parliament. She knows island issues, listens well, has a strong track record of getting things done for people. She will always put Shetland first. I hope that she will have the overwhelming support of Shetland in the coming contest.”
Liberal Democrat Leader Willie Rennie said: “I’m delighted to have Beatrice as our candidate for Shetland. She’s a devoted campaigner and an attentive councillor. I have no doubt she will bring the same energy to defending Shetland’s interests that Tavish has over the last twenty years.”
Chairwoman of the Liberal Democrats in Shetland, Brenda Wilcock said she was delighted to endorse Beatrice Wishart as the prospective candidate. Beatrice is a passionate Shetlander and is well equipped for the task ahead. She has a quiet determination which shouldn’t be underestimated.
“She also has a wealth of experience of Shetland and its needs, having lived, worked and raised a family here. She has held office in the Local Party for over 20 years, is a Councillor and has worked for Alistair Carmichael MP as office manager and case worker for the last 14 years.
“We look forward to assisting Beatrice in her forthcoming campaign and are confident that the Shetland voters will put their faith in Beatrice and return a Liberal Democrat MSP to Holyrood again.”
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