Rod Mackenzie quits as convener of Crofting Commission amid thanks for 'positive contribution'
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A FIGURE well known across north farming circles has resigned with immediate effect from his role on a body responsible for regulating crofting.
Rod Mackenzie has stood down as the Crofting Commission’s convener and as commissioner for East Highlands.
Mr Mackenzie, known to many for his involvement with the Black Isle Show and as an auctioneer, informed cabinet secretary for rural affairs, Mairi Gougeon, of his decision. Mr Mackenzie, who had retained the support of his fellow commissioners, cited his reason as “ongoing issues which he was not personally comfortable with”.
The Crofting Commission is a non-departmental public body which operates independently of the government but for which Scottish Ministers are ultimately responsible.
Its principal function is regulating, re-organising and promoting the interests of crofting.
Mairi Mackenzie, vice-convener, said: “The board thanks Rod for all that he has done in his role, he has been an excellent convener. As an active crofter, his vast knowledge and understanding of crofting, along with his leadership qualities has helped lead a very cohesive board.
“In response to Rod’s resignation, the board acknowledges the issues and are developing an action plan with a strict timeline to address them. The board knows Rod will continue to support crofters in his professional career as an auctioneer with Dingwall Mart.”
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Mr Mackenzie said: “My hope is that the commission continues working on becoming more approachable and forward thinking in order to support Scotland’s crofters. Like any regulator, the commission has its critics, however, it’s a vital organisation for upholding the crofters’ role in managing large swathes of Scotland’s land for food production and biodiversity, as well as being at the heart of our rural and remote communities.”
Chairman of NFU Scotland’s Crofting, Highlands & Islands committee, Barney MacAskill, paid tribute to his service. He said: “We always found him approachable in his role and thank him for the way in which he was always willing to listen to members’ concerns and engage with our committee.
“He made a very positive contribution to crofting in his time as convener, championing its role in food production, sensitive land management and the rural economy in many of Scotland’s fragile rural areas.
“NFU Scotland will be looking to the Scottish Government to arrange for the appointment of a new convener quickly, and we look forward to working with the new appointee on behalf of the union’s growing crofting membership.”
