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Motion · S6M-10066 · 1 Aug 2023

Freedom of the Western Isles Awarded by Comhairle

Lodged by Dr Alasdair Allan Standard Motion 22 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament congratulates Alexander "Sandy" Matheson CVO OBE on being granted the freedom of the Western Isles; notes that the ceremony took place on 31 July 2023 in Stornoway Town Hall; understands that the honour was granted by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to mark the community’s recognition of Sandy’s local service in many roles over the course of several decades, including serving as Comhairle Convenver from 1982 to 1990; notes that Sandy first held public office at the age of 25, when he was elected to Stornoway Town Council in the 1960s, and went on to serve in other key local organisations, including the Stornoway Trust and the Stornoway Pier and Harbour Commission; understands that Sandy has also served as Chair on the boards of NHS Western Isles, Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd and the Harris Tweed Authority, and was also one of the founders of the Hebridean Men’s Cancer Support Group; further understands that the freedom of the Western Isles is the highest honour that Comhairle can award, and that it has only been granted on six previous occasions since the Comhairle’s formation in 1975, and thanks Sandy for his years of public and community service, wishing him well for the future.

Supporters (22)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.