Kate Braithwaite is delighted to be part of a new group which will help shape a prosperous future for rural Scotland.
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Richard Lochhead chaired the inaugural meeting of the Rural Development Council in Dunkeld on the 2nd of June.
The council includes a number of individuals who will bring a broad range of expertise on rural matters to the table with the aim of developing policy and advising the Scottish Government on how rural communities can contribute to Scotland's sustainable economic growth.
Mr Lochhead said:
"I am delighted to see that we now have a forum where the rural voice can be heard at the heart of Government.
"I want to see the Rural Development Council play a central role in shaping a long-term national strategy for rural Scotland and empowering communities to feel better about themselves and their future.
"Its members draw on a wide range of experience from various walks of life, including the farming sector, environment interests, housing, tourism and the economy.
"Today represents the first chance for such a diverse group of voices to get together and take the first steps in shaping a prosperous rural Scotland.
"As Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs I will take a keen interest in the ideas and advice which the group will generate, with a view to ensuring rural Scotland is fit for both the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century."
The Rural Development Council is a forum which will bring a broad range of expertise on rural matters to bear on strategic discussions which will shape the development of rural policy and practice in Scotland. It will consider how best rural Scotland can contribute to the creation of a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth. The Council will assist Ministers in identifying any obstacles to achieving this goal; consider possible solutions; and offer advice to Scottish Ministers, including identifying priorities for action. The Council will also consider and advise on priority issues remitted to it by Scottish Ministers. Meetings will be held every three to four months with additional meetings held by specialist topic groups.
For full details of the membership see here:
