Alistair Buchan to Retire as OIC Chief Executive

That the Parliament notes the announcement by Alistair Buchan, chief executive of Orkney Islands Council, on his decision to retire later in 2019; recognises the significant contribution that Alistair has made to local government, not just in Orkney and the other island groups, but more generally over many years of dedicated service; understands that, with over 22 years at the helm of the council, Alistair is the longest serving chief executive of any of Scotland’s local authorities, and that he was also the youngest person in Scotland to hold the office of council chief executive on his appointment at the age of 33 in 1997; understands that Alistair began his local government career in Comhairle nan Eilean Siar in 1988; believes that being appointed a CBE in the 2014 Birthday Honours List was further and well-deserved recognition of Alistair’s contribution to public service generally and local government in particular over a career spanning 31 years, and wishes Alistair, Lorraine and the rest of his family all the very best for the future.