Councillor C
A 71-year-old member of an ethnic minority representing a rural ward.
1. How long have you served as a Councillor?
I have served as a Councillor since May 1999.
2. What initially attracted you to Local Government?
I have been active in politics since the mid 80s and in some key non-political organisations at regional and local levels.
I was attracted to Local Government in 1999 since I believed that I was able to contribute to the society, particularly at the local level.
3. What has been your greatest achievement so far as a Councillor?
It is difficult to pinpoint a single item. However, I have derived a great satisfaction in assisting my constituents and local groups, particularly the community councils and the School Boards in my ward.
I have also contributed to policing in Grampian Area and at the Scottish level and to some extent at the UK level as my role as the Convener of the Grampian Joint Police Board.
I became an OBE for services to community relations in Scotland in 2005.
4. What do you feel is the biggest challenge for Councillors?
A Councillor faces a multitude of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is to steer the policies of the council within budget for the betterment of the citizens which meets the expectations of the general public.
5. In your role as a Councillor, what gives you the most satisfaction?
At the local level it is immensely satisfying to assist individuals and the local groups in meeting their aspirations for the better conditions and services.
These could be simple things like litter prevention, roads maintenance, improvement in play parks or parking areas in rural schools.
At the policy level it is very satisfying to adopt and implement policies for the improvement in council policies affecting all or most of the citizens.
6. What advice would you give to anyone wanting to stand as a Councillor?
Being a Councillor is a very demanding job which requires a great deal of commitment at all times including evening and occasional weekends.
However one derives a lot of satisfaction to make a difference in the lives of people at the local level and helping to steer the council policies to improve the life for all.