Gillian Martin has returned to the Scottish Government cabinet with responsibility for climate action and rural affairs, as First Minister John Swinney unveiled his new-look ministerial team following the SNP’s re-election victory.
The Aberdeenshire East MSP, previously energy secretary, takes on the high-profile portfolio at a time of growing pressure on ministers over climate targets, agricultural reform and support for rural communities.
Her appointment was swiftly welcomed by SNP colleagues and farming organisations, who said the role would be central to shaping Scotland’s environmental and food policy over the coming years.
Seamus Logan described Ms Martin as a 'strong voice for the North-east' and praised her record in government.
He said: “Gillian was such a hard-working and diligent MSP and cabinet secretary for energy in the last parliament, strong both on delivery and as a voice for the North-east.
“I am sure she will bring the same energy and commitment to this new remit, as we continue the important transition to net zero and support rural communities during these challenging economic times.”
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The appointment comes amid increasing scrutiny of Scotland’s environmental strategy after ministers abandoned key emissions reduction targets earlier this year, while farmers continue to raise concerns over rising costs and uncertainty surrounding future rural support payments.
The Nature Friendly Farming Network Scotland said Ms Martin’s arrival offered an opportunity to accelerate the shift towards more sustainable farming practices.
NFFN Scotland manager Nim Kibbler urged the new government to provide 'clear, long-term guarantees' for farmers preparing to transition to nature-friendly agriculture.
“The full transition to nature-friendly farming that we need will take between five and 10 years, and farmers need long-term guarantees now so they can begin planning fundamental changes to their businesses,” he said.
“Without a clear, long-term roadmap and a baseline of reliable and predictable policy, the shift to nature-friendly and climate-resilient farming simply won’t happen.”
The organisation warned that climate change, alongside soaring fuel and fertiliser prices linked to instability in the Middle East, was placing increasing pressure on Scotland’s agricultural sector.
NFFN Scotland chair Denise Walton said Ms Martin had already demonstrated a 'genuine commitment' to protecting Scotland’s biodiversity and rural economy.
The group is now calling on ministers to prioritise investment in local supply chains, peatland restoration and long-term support for upland farming communities as part of Scotland’s transition to net zero.
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