New deputy appointed in SNP shake-up

A NEW deputy leader of Highland Council’s opposition SNP group has been elected after an Inverness councillor stepped down from the role last week due to health reasons.

Councillor Ian Cockburn (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh) replaces Councillor Richard Laird (Inverness Central), who has also left the post of chairman of the audit and scrutiny committee.

Cllr Cockburn will relinquish his role as SNP whip, handing the reins to Councillor Karl Rosie (Thurso and Northwest Caithness).

SNP group leader Maxine Smith said: "Again, I pay tribute to Richard who served as deputy leader for five years or more and worked well with everyone. He just needs time to take stock."