Cailean MacUlarig

Do Ghuth ann an Croiteireachd

Colin Kennedy Your voice in Crofting

Five years ago a monumental moment in crofting happened… six crofters were elected to the Crofting Commission to see the internal workings of an organisation that had previously been led by government appointment. The change was dramatic for the first time people who worked the land were on the committee of peers. Who better to know how crofting should work than the crofters themselves? However, the way crofting worked for government was not the way it should work for us - fair and equitably across the country. It seems to me that those of us elected to serve were to be silent upon the commission - and not speak out about the things that we saw inside that organisation that were simply unfair. We had six crofters who knew what had to be delivered to make the system work best. Of course we saw issues such as one area being allowed to do one thing, while other areas were not allowed to do the very same thing. A set of laws that were simply not adhered to universally across the country. A set of laws that needed to be vigorously tested. While we all made some progress in the commission, I realised that we needed a governance review of the whole organisation . I had identified a list of all the wrong doing and took it to the government saying that we had to have a external review in August 2016. In response to my request a maelstrom blew up and what I got for it was attacks in the media, and abuse. However those who set out against me - calling for my resignation - did not have the rhino hide I seem to have. They couldn’t get rid of Colin Kennedy and here I am standing again. Should you wish to retain an open, transparent, accountable and active area commissioner with your interests foremost in his mind, who will continue to strive to ensure the rights of crofters are recognised and that Crofters are treated in an equitable manner then vote for me. It is time to look ahead, with the vote to leave the EU it is more important than ever that you have a representative who has vision and understanding of the issues facing crofters who will fight to the last and deliver for crofters going forward. My in-depth understanding of the current regime sets me apart from others and be assured Colin . Kennedy is the candidate to continue representing Argyll and Lochaber who will ensure your voice is heard above others within the heart of Crofting. As a real Highland crofter who continues to graft every day at the coal face of crofting while also representing your interests. Look out for the voting paper and return immediately , it only takes five minutes and in return for your vote you will receive another five years of dedicated service.