Not the time for a hike in Councillor Pay

Why I Oppose the Councillors’ Pay Rise – A Highland Perspective

As a Highland Councillor, I simply cannot support the recent decision to increase Councillors' pay. At a time when families across our region are grappling with rising living costs, stretched public services, and cuts to vital local budgets, the increase in elected member pay sends the wrong message.

The Highlands face unique challenges—rural poverty, housing shortages, and crumbling infrastructure. Every penny we spend must be justified to those we serve.

The Scottish Government has dilly-dallied and delayed on reform to Local Government and their inability to deal with Councillors' remuneration has simply created an impossible position where Councillors are stretched with casework, committee obligations, local commitments, yet the role is supposed to be part-time.

Although I understand that Councillors' pay is a major factor in stopping high-calibre candidates choosing to serve in our Councils... accepting a pay rise now feels out of touch with the realities our constituents face daily.

Leadership means setting an example. This isn’t the time for pay hikes—it’s a time for priorities.