The new SNP shadow cabinet met for the first time this week to discuss their ambitious plans for North Ayrshire over the next five years.

Following the election result, which left both parties with 11 councillors, the SNP had proposed the formation of a progressive coalition within the council, but were rebuffed by Labour who went on to form a minority administration.

Group leader Marie Burns said: “We remain deeply disappointed that Labour locally chose to put their narrow party interests before those of the people of North Ayrshire.

"Although Labour claim to oppose the Tories and austerity, many of their Councillors were elected on the back of Tory transfers and, rather than enter a coalition with us, they were supported by Tory Councillors’ votes to cling onto minority administration.

“Our strong SNP group are focused on delivering for all of our communities across North Ayrshire and ensuring this Labour/Tory Alliance is held to account.

“I have said that where there is common ground we will work with colleagues across the Council to ensure the best outcome for the people of North Ayrshire. However, where the administration fails to deliver or to honour its pledges to local communities, we will stand up for fairness and equality.

"We will always provide a strong voice for those who are being left behind and for all the people in our communities. Our strong SNP group will robustly scrutinise this minority administration for as long as it remains in place and will continue to put forward our positive vision of a stronger future for North Ayrshire.

“The SNP Shadow Cabinet is, unlike Labour’s, gender balanced and has a wealth and breadth of experience.”

The SNP Shadow Cabinet members are: Marie Burns, Leader of the Opposition and shadow cabinet member for the economy. Marie held this portfolio in the previous SNP administration following the 2012 election. She supported the creation of Team North Ayrshire to support local businesses and the development of the Ayrshire Growth Deal.

Alan Hill, Depute Leader of the SNP is shadow cabinet member for Communities and also previously held this portfolio. Alan supported the development of our new Localities which will transfer decision-making closer to our communities.

Tony Gurney is shadow cabinet member for Place, having also previously held the portfolio. Tony oversaw a massive increase in council house building as well as new primary and secondary schools, including the new Garnock and Largs campuses. Tony also shifted council policy decisively towards renewables.

Shaun Macaulay is SNP Group Whip and shadow cabinet member for Education and Youth Employment. Whilst the SNP was running North Ayrshire the attainment gap was starting to close. Shaun will ensure that Labour continues to focus on improvements in the delivery of education in our communities.

Anthea Dickson is shadow cabinet member for Health & Social Care and has vast experience in this area having previously chaired the Integration Joint Board between the Council and the NHS. Anthea wants to see investment in this area to continue to progress the SNP’s integration agenda including early intervention and prevention and welfare reform that promotes self-management and dignity.

Christina Larson is SNP Group Secretary and shadow cabinet member for Finance. At a time of continued funding cuts as a result of the crippling Tory Austerity Agenda, the SNP recognise the importance of ensuring good quality local services. Christina will hold the Labour administration to account in all financial decisions and ensure that the council continues to develop SNP initiatives like our successful Participatory Budgeting Events.