Jim McFarlane spoke in support of Motion 38, stressing that the housing crisis is no longer just a housing issue but a workforce issue affecting the delivery of public services.
He highlighted the growing difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff in remote and rural areas, where the lack of affordable housing is forcing skilled workers to turn down jobs or leave communities altogether.
Jim argued that investment in key worker and affordable housing is essential to protecting health, social care and other public services. He urged conference to support the motion and press both the Scottish and UK Governments to take coordinated action to ensure rural communities have the homes and workforce they need to thrive.