LIFE is going to be busy, but the newly elected SNP member for the Scottish Government’s Angus North and Mearns constituency will continue her role as an Aberdeenshire Councillor.
Ms Black told The Bellman she was delighted beyond words at her recent election success, which took her straight into a whirlwind of induction sessions and meetings as the new parliament convened for the first time on May 14, when newly elected Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) were sworn in at Holyrood.
Going forward, Ms Black has decided to remain as a ward member for Stonehaven and Lower Deeside. Had she resigned, a by-election would have been required with a new councillor having less than a year in the seat.
”There’s no doubt it is going to be challenging,” she said, ”but my party is keen for me to remain in place representing the people of Stonehaven and Lower Deeside, so they will support me in my dual role.”
Ms Black said much Council business was conducted online and meetings often attended remotely, so the transition would be as seamless as possible.
Unfortunately a dual-role does not mean a double salary – our new MSP will have her Holyrood salary reduced by the basic rate of a Councillor’s salary.