Gail Ross MSP appointed Deputy Convener of Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee

18th June 2016

Humbled and honoured was how Caithness, Sutherland and Ross SNP MSP Gail Ross summed up her feelings after been appointed as Deputy Convener of the new Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee in the Scottish Parliament.

The Committee covers a wide range of issues which affect people in rural areas, including agriculture, broadband, transport, food and drink.

Ms Ross said - "The Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee is one that deals with many issues of great importance to my constituents and the people in the Highlands and Islands in general. I was delighted to be nominated to sit on that committee, but to be the Deputy Convener was a great honour and privilege.

"This is a responsibility that I will cherish. The committee deals with a range of touchstone issues for many of my constituents. I look forward to the impact that this new committee will have in helping to asses these issues and what can be done to help.

"One of the prime issues is connectivity. It is a major issue in rural areas especially in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross-shire. Broadband is a key priority for the majority and I am proud that the SNP Government has committed to 100% roll out of broadband in this Parliament. As a member of the Committee then I welcome the opportunity to scrutinise how fast this roll out is happening. The poor mobile coverage in many areas of my constituency and rural areas is something I would like to see the committee address also."

See the first meeting of the committee