NFU Scotland Orkney and Shetland Regional Policy Advisors

That the Parliament congratulates Kerry Omand and Lorna Scott on their appointment by NFU Scotland as regional policy advisors for Orkney and Shetland respectively; understands that, until now, both Orkney and Shetland were covered by the regional manager, Ian Wilson, under the remit of the Highlands but will now have their own dedicated advisors; recognises that the aim of the new appointment is to increase the work with the local branches and improve communications and stakeholder engagement, as well as having people on the ground who know and understand the issues facing islanders and who may have experienced these themselves; believes that Kerry and Lorna are ideal candidates for the roles, having been brought up on farms in Orkney and Shetland and developed a real understanding of the specific challenges facing island farmers and crofters, and wishes both Kerry and Lorna all the best in taking forward their new roles.