Orkney Islands Councillors agreed at the full meeting of OIC held on 11th of March that Council Tax in Orkney will remain at 23/24 levels. The council tax freeze was enabled by an additional £1.1million coming from the Scottish Government.

It means Council Tax for a Band D property will remain at £1,369.21.

The OIC meeting, however, was more remarkable for its departure from convention and tradition since the election of the new Leader, Councillor Heather Woodbridge.

Most of the discussion took place around the tradition of councillors, at any full meeting of the council, standing when speaking. Councillors divided in the vote 11 in favour of removing this requirement, to 9 wishing it to still continue.

Councillor Tullock and others who spoke for retaining the tradition of standing whilst speaking pointed out that in both the Scottish Parliament and the UK one, members stand when speaking in the Main Chamber in debates. Councillor Tullock felt very strongly that it was a matter of respect to do so, not just for other members, but for members of the public who they represent.

OIC Leader, Heather Woodbridge, was firmly against holding to this tradition and said it was a question of inclusion, enabling all councillors to feel they can contribute whether or not they can stand. Although, anyone who has watched debates in either of the Parliaments will know that allowances are made for those who are unable to physically stand when speaking. The Scottish Parliament, in particular, is well known for its inclusive strategies and even the building is well laid out to allow access to all.

Those in favour of departing from tradition said that the way the microphones are set up within the chamber creates more problems for those who stand to be heard clearly. Anyone who has listened to OIC committee meetings, where councillors remain seated, will be aware that several councillors are not clearly spoken. Perhaps enhanced training in the use of microphones is required.

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Fiona Grahame