Crofting consultation event to take place in Kirkwall

A public meeting is to be held in Kirkwall by the Scottish Government this month, following the launch of a consultation which asks for views on the future of crofting.

At the end of last month, Rural Affairs Secretary Fergus Ewing, launched a public consultation, which is seeking opinions on the priorities for future crofting law,

The government has said the aim of the consultation is to ensure crofting law is fit for the 21st century.

A series of public meetings are being held across Scotland to help with any issues or questions on responding to the consultation. A meeting will take place in the Kirkwall Town Hall, on September 26, beginning at 7pm, with a presentation to start at 7.30pm.

Mr Ewing commented: “Crofting delivers valuable local benefits and a successful crofting sector helps our rural communities to thrive. It is therefore vital the law that governs it is fit for purpose.

“Initial discussions have shown while there is plenty of agreement that the current law needs to change, there are many views on what should replace it.

“I would strongly encourage anyone with an interest in the future of crofting –  whether they be crofters, landowners, those living in a crofting communities or in other parts of Scotland – to take part in this consultation and help us improve future legislation.”

The consultation document is available by clicking here.  It runs for 12 weeks and will end on November 20.