Alistair Buchan's Retirement as Chief Executive of Orkney Islands Council

That the Parliament acknowledges the retirement of Alistair Buchan as Chief Executive of Orkney Islands Council; notes that Alistair was appointed to the role in 1997 aged 33, making him the youngest head of an all-purpose council in Scotland, and that his 22 consecutive years in the position has made him the country's longest serving council head, and the second longest in the UK; acknowledges that, in 2014, Alistair was appointed a CBE in the Birthday Honours List in recognition of his outstanding service to the council; believes that he has made an enormous contribution during this years, including a brief spell in a similar role at Shetland Islands Council, demonstrating exemplary public service; recognises that he has been a fierce and passionate advocate for the islands and has made a significant difference to the lives of the people and communities that he has served; thanks Alistair for his hard work and dedication, and wishes him a long, enjoyable and well-earned retirement.