Aberdeen has a new depute provost, after her successor quit amid sexual harassment allegations.
At yesterday’s full council meeting, independent councillor Jennifer Stewart was nominated for the role in a motion by her administration colleagues.
The opposition SNP group moved that there be nobody appointed “at this time” while the Liberal Democrats urged that their councillor Steve Delaney be given the ceremonial position.
However, Mrs Stewart was voted in.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The P&J newsletter
The post became vacant after Conservative Alan Donnelly was charged in connection with a sexual assault allegation.
He resigned as depute provost, but remains a councillor for Torry and Ferryhill.
Mrs Stewart, who represents Hazlehead, Queens Cross and Countesswells, said: “I’m delighted to be taking up this role in representing the city and working closely with the lord provost.
“I’m humbled to have been put in the position to take this position to sing the praises of Aberdeen and work to represent the city on the civic side.”
Meanwhile, Aberdeen Labour member Lesley Dunbar was put on the board of the Community Food Initiative North East (CFine) and Conservative Philip Bell will replace Mrs Stewart on the Disabilities Equity Partnership.
Mr Bell will also take Claire Imrie’s place on the Integrated Joint Board, while Councillor Avril Mackenzie will join the Aberdeen Performing Arts board.