Coalition up and running

Arelatively harmonious first meeting of the new Highland Council in Inverness yesterday saw the SNPIndependent coalition deal agreed.

Councillor Raymond Bremner won a vote against Liberal Democrat leader Alasdair Christie to take the reins as leader.

Under Mr Bremner’s tenure, the SNP, for the first time, took the most seats, with 22 to the Independents’ 21. There were four abstentions – all thought to be Greens.

Independent leader Bill Lobban was unanimously elected convener.

Mr Lobban immediately drew laughs as he invited Mr Bremner to “say a few words – with emphasis on the few”.

Famed for his long speeches, Mr Bremner was succinct. He pledged to work for all the people of the Highlands. That meant investing in jobs to reverse the “Highland clearances” and ensure the region gets a fair deal at a national level.

“Geographically we are the biggest council in the whole of the country,” said Mr Bremner. “We have a population of nearly quarter of a million.

“The council itself is one of the biggest employers in the area, with nearly 10,000 staff and employees. We are a council that should be recognised at both Scottish Government and UK Government levels for all that we are.”

Mr Bremner said he wants to build a Highland economy “fit for the future” and he would strive to secure a strong deal nationally.

However, he took a swipe at opposition claims that the council would pander to the Scottish Government.

“We need to be committed to ensuring that this council is best positioned in respect of our representation to government,” he said. “The political recognition of the Highland Council needs to be at a higher level.”

Mr Christie said the Liberal Democrats would provide support and scrutiny. The cost of living crisis was a priority.

“We need to be aware of the impact of isolation on the most vulnerable members of our communities,” he said.

Mr Christie led the budget process in the last political term and he challenged members to “stand by the capital programme”. He said the programme focuses on the future by providing resources to young people. He quipped: “There will be fundamental disagreements – and we will always be right.”

Yesterday marked the first meeting of the new council post-election and a landmark moment since the pandemic.

Convener Mr Lobban said: “With 34 new members, the winds of change are certainly blowing through this chamber and hopefully they will feel more like a breath of fresh air.”

Mr Lobban said the last political term was the most challenging since the Second World War and “there are more tough times ahead”.

“It is your collective responsibility to see the Highlands continue to thrive,” he said.

“I wish you well in your task.”

Raymond Bremner has been voted council leader.