Regional MSP to stand down at next election

HIGHLANDS and Islands Green MSP John Finnie has confirmed that he will retire at the next Scottish Parliament election in 2021.

The Scottish Greens have begun selecting candidates for the election.

Finnie was first elected to represent the Highlands and Islands in 2011 before being re-elected five years later.

He was in Shetland recently to campaign with Green by-election candidate Debra Nicolson.

“It is an honour to serve the Highlands and Islands in the Scottish Parliament and I intend continuing to work hard until my last day in office,” Finnie said.

“I’ve been involved in representative politics since being elected a Highland councillor in 2007 and enjoyed helping people, but I feel the time is right to step aside and let others bring their energy and ideas to what is a demanding job.

“Throughout my time in parliament, I’ve put my home region of the Highlands and Islands and my constituents at the forefront of my work.

“Driven by my interest in social and environmental justice, I have been pleased to secure a number of concessions and legislative changes to improve the lives of people in the region.”