Former Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Norman ‘Dokus’ Macdonald has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List.
Mr Macdonald, who also worked for the Comhairle as a Community Education Officer, has been recognised for his outstanding contributions to the community of Uig and the Western Isles as a whole.
Mr Macdonald was elected to the Comhairle in 1997 and served as Convener for 10 years, from 2012 to 2022. In his time with the Comhairle he also served as, Vice Chair of Environmental Services Committee, Chair of both Transportation Committee and Environment and Protective Services Committee, and Chair of the Board of Sgoiltean Ura LLP.
Mr Macdonald has held several local and national roles. These roles include: Director at Community Learning Scotland, Watch Manager at Highlands & Islands Fire & Rescue Service, Director at Western Isles Enterprise, Director at Urras Studio Alba, Chairman of Gaelic Language & Culture Forum, Director at European Bureau of Lesser Used Languages, Chairman of Community Retailing Network, Chairman of Uig Development Trust, Chairman of Uig Community Co-operative and Director of Scotland Excel.
Cllr Kenneth Macleod, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said:
“I would like to congratulate Norman on a truly deserved honour in recognition of his many years of service to Uig and the Western Isles as a whole. Throughout his personal life and professional career Norman has demonstrated an incredible commitment to community service which sets the standard for what an individual can do for the improvement of their community. For me personally Norman has set a great example for what the Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar should be and for that I thank him. I would also like to congratulate Malina Macleod from Lochportain, North Uist, on the receipt of an MBE in recognition of a dedicated career in nursing and social care. Congratulations to you both.”