Candidates named for election

There are three vacancies on the Board this year as Stephen MacAulay and John MacMillan were required to stand down as part of the rolling process that ensures all the Directors stand down over a period of three years.

Hector MacLeod also resigned as a Director earlier this year.

The Articles of Association require that the elected Directors must be elected by full members in a secret ballot and the company are continuing with the election process to meet this requirement.

Completed ballot papers need to be received by Electoral Reform Services no later than Wednesday June 8th 2016 for counting.

Confirmation of the election will be announced immediately following the completion of the count and presented to the Membership at the AGM in June 2016.

Further information on the process for filling the remaining vacancy will be sent out to members in due course.

Angus MacMillan, Chairman of Sealladh na Beinne Mòire said: “It is unfortunate that we have only two candidates for the three vacancies.

“This is the first time we have not had a contest for the important role of Director of the community company.

“The SnBM Board will have to review how we can encourage more people to come forward to participate in this work, and identify how best we can fill the remaining vacancy.”

The first nominee is Stephen John MacAulay, who said: “ I have thoroughly enjoyed the past 6 years. During that time, I have had the opportunity to be part of many ambitious projects that have come to fruition. In particular, Lochcarnan Windfarm, Lochboisdale Harbour and the establishment of the SnBM Community Fund.

“If re-elected I will continue to work hard with existing/new directors and staff to continue the good work done over the past years on behalf of the local community.”

The second nominee is Sebastian Paterson, who said: “I am standing for election to the Board of Sealladh na Beinne Mòire to offer assistance in shaping and achieving the company’s democratic social and economic vision to realise the community’s right to buy sustainable land development ambitions.

“Whilst not native to South Uist I have had a home here since 1980 and as a crofter and General Manager of Co-Chomunn an Iochdair recognise the importance of ensuring that traditional Island occupations are appropriately represented and supported, in conjunction and in balance with innovative enterprises.”