Kate Forbes MSP has welcomed the selection of Eilidh Munro as the SNP’s candidate for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch in the next Holyrood election.
Munro, a fluent Gaelic speaker and traditional musician, secured the nomination with 79% of the local party vote.
She brings a background in media and politics, having worked with MacTV and BBC Alba, as well as in the office of Alasdair Allan MSP at the Scottish Parliament.
She lives in the Highlands with her husband, who works in mental health nursing, and their two young children, both in Gaelic-medium education.
Following the SNP conference in Aberdeen, Kate Forbes offered strong support for her successor.
“Eilidh Munro is an excellent choice to retain the seat of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch for the SNP,” said Forbes.
“She already represents the best of the Highlands, as a young Gaelic speaker and traditional musician.
“As a mother with young children, she will be able to speak knowledgeably about the value of education and investing in the next generation.
“Eilidh has the work ethic, independent mind and strength of character to fight for the Highlands.
“I cannot think of a better person to carry on my legacy.
“She will be a strong voice for Highland communities.
“I’ll be working day and night to elect her next May.”
Eilidh Munro said she was honoured to be selected and praised the work of her predecessor.
“I’m delighted to have been selected as candidate by local party members and to have the backing of Kate Forbes MSP as we launch the campaign,” she said.
“Kate has been an incredibly hardworking representative for the Highlands over the past decade, and I hope to emulate that same tenacity, diligence and care she has shown in advocating fiercely on behalf of local communities and rural businesses.”
She said the campaign would focus on local priorities, including infrastructure, housing, and public services.
“As MSP, I will champion the priorities of communities across Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch throughout the policymaking process,” she added.
“We’ll deliver on key infrastructure projects, affordable housing, and public service improvements, for example, through the Scottish Government’s sponsorship of care worker visas to address staffing shortages, getting around the short-sighted policies of Westminster.”
She said she was excited to begin meeting voters across the constituency in the weeks ahead.
