Gary Coull takes over SNP top job
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THE Moray SNP group has a new leader.
Keith-Cullen member Gary Coull has been unanimously chosen to succeed Councillor Pearl Paul as leader of the main opposition group on the 26-strong council.
Councillor Paul, who represents Speyside-Glenlivet, has been leader of the SNP group for 12 years but stood down due to health reasons.
She said: "There is a wealth of talent in our group and I know that the group will be in very good hands under Gary’s leadership.
"I have been very proud to lead a group of fantastic councillors, who have provided a challenge to the Moray Council’s Administration and, indeed, challenge within the group, which is hugely important in keeping us focussed and on the ball.
"While I am no longer group leader I am still a councillor for Speyside Glenlivet and while I may be speaking a little less than I would as spposition leader that doesn’t mean I’ll be any quieter on the issues affecting the folk in Speyside!"
Councillor Coull said: "I would like to thank the SNP group for placing their faith in me to lead them in the council. Our 11-strong group is an effective and constructive opposition and I intend to ensure that carries on.
"Pearl has been a brilliant leader of the SNP in Moray Council during the last 12 years and I want to thank her for the dedication. She has brought common sense to local politics and I am delighted that she will be continuing as councillor for Speyside/Glenlivet.
"I don’t underestimate the challenge ahead but I am confident the SNP has the talent and drive in Moray to keep representing the people of this area with common sense and effectiveness."