Speaking after the speech by Michael Russell MSP, Minister for Environment, on the Scottish Government’s response to the Shucksmith Inquiry into Crofting, Western Isles MSP, Alasdair Allan, commented:
“The Shucksmith proposals met with broad approval, though I am pleased that the Minister has listened to the representations which I and many others made about Professor Shucksmith's proposals on Burdens. Most crofters will agree that Burdens ran the risk of creating a two-tier housing market in crofting districts. The Government's proposals achieve, I hope, a better balance of interests.
"There was also welcome evidence that the government has heard the concerns that many crofters had about the proposal to abolish the Crofting Commission. The Commission will now continue, though with a greater proportion of elected crofters running it, and it will be advised on local needs by area committees.

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“The minister also announced that the Bull Hire scheme, which is used by 430 individuals in Scotland will cease in its current form after next year. I am obviously concerned to know what is to replace this scheme, as it is generally used in areas where commercial alternatives are not readily available. In the chamber today, I asked for assurances that the money presently invested in the Bull Hire scheme will stay within crofting, and that specifically it will be directed at helping crofters now facing the very considerable cost of wintering a bull;
“The minister has made clear that the Government would be seeking to assist both with the costs of wintering a bull and also potentially the costs of providing buildings for this. He also indicating that the bulls presently part of the scheme would be offered to communities at significantly discounted cost.
"Obviously those crofters in the islands who have used the bull hire scheme will want more information on how this will work and I intend to pursue this issue with the Government.
"I hope to meet with the Crofting Foundation to discuss this issue, and I will also be meeting with the Cross Party Group on crofting tonight about these issues and I will be seeking an urgent meeting with Mr. Russell regarding what the Government will do to help those affected by the end of the Bull Hire scheme. I am also happy to take up the concerns of any individual crofter."

Source: Hebrides News