All change at top of SNP party’s branch
New convener elected
There has been a change of personnel at the head of the Stirling branch of the SNP.
New office bearers were appointed at their annual general meeting last Wednesday (September 13).
Former Stirling-East Councillor Gerry McLaughlan was unanimously elected as convener, following the decision of Andrew Szwebs to stand down from the role.
Other office bearers include: viceconvener, Lee Robb; secretary, Grant Thoms; treasurer, Councillor Alison Laurie; organiser, Mel Cowie; political education officer, Joy MacNaughton; equalities convener, Morag Fulton; membership secretary, Eilidh Reid, and minutes secretary, Councillor Susan McGill.
Mr Szwebs, recently confirmed as chairman of Mercat Cross and City centre Community Council, said: “After having served as convener of the branch for nearly three years, I felt it was time to give someone else a chance to take the local party forward.
“I’ve thought about it long and hard and feel that my talents are best served as chair of the community council which is what I’ll be putting all my energy into.
“The City Deal is the single most important thing to happen to Stirling since receiving city status in 2002 and we need dedicated, passionate local people involved to help deliver the best possible outcome for the Mercat Cross and City Centre area.”
Mr McLaughlan was elected to the council as representative for Stirling East in October, 2015 but lost his seat in the council elections in May.
He said: “It’s an honour to have my local branch elect me as convener and I look forward to working with all members in coming months to make sure that our voices are heard and that the SNP’s positive vision for Stirling and Scotland inspires local residents.
“There is a lot of work to be done as we have reached one of the most pivotal political points in our nation’s history and I look forward to getting out and winning support across all communities in Stirling city.”