SNP targets Shetland and Orkney in local elections

The SNP is to target the Northern Isles in the next local authority elections in an attempt to secure its first councillors on Shetland and Orkney.

It follows a decision to increase the number of candidates in other key areas, such as Aberdeen and Edinburgh.

SNP business convener Derek Mackay, who is also the local government minister, said he hoped for a breakthrough next May following an increase in the party’s national vote at the last Scottish Parliament election.

However, the Northern Isles returned the only two Liberal Democrat constituency MSPs last May, leaving the SNP in third place behind independent candidates.

Orkney and Shetland are unusual, compared with mainland authorities, in having only independent councillors.

Mr Mackay said: “In less than 100 days voters across Scotland have the opportunity to keep up the momentum, bring fresh faces to local government and continue to make Scotland better.”

Referring to the Northern Isles, he added: “The SNP has a presence there with local members and we want to extend to the councils.”

He said details of candidates had not been finalised but that not all wards will be targeted.

Shetland councillor Laura Baisley said she doubts whether political parties will make a breakthrough at the May elections.

The North Isles ward member said: “When people have declared a party allegiance it hasn’t really helped them.

“It seems to be more the people who have local knowledge, or community leaders, that get elected.”

The political future of the islands was highlighted by the Earl of Caithness last week.

He wants a clause added to Westminster legislation to allow Shetland and Orkney to remain part of the UK if Scotland votes for independence in the 2014 referendum.

Mr Mackay dismissed the intervention as a “red herring”.