MATHER TO VISIT MID ARGYLL POOL

Jim Mather Argyll & Bute MSP, will be in Mid Argyll on
constituency business on Friday and has arranged to meet with
representatives of the Mid Argyll Community Enterprise Ltd (MACEL) at
the Pool at Lochgilphead to discuss the present threat to the facility's
future and to examine ways of taking matters forward. Jim will also be
visiting Kilmory to meet with senior council officials and will also be
attending an initial meeting with stakeholders in Estate Management in
Inveraray.

Jim Mather said:

"I am acutely aware of the problems currently faced by the Mid
Argyll Pool and I have been pressing for a long-term robust solution to
its finances.

This is a vital facility for local people and its present
situation is a matter for serious concern.

That is why I want to see all the organisations that benefit
from the existence of the pool come together in common cause and play
their part in maintaining this key local asset.

Local people, the Lochgilphead Medical Practice and the Mid
Argyll Community Hospital & Integrated Care Centre have made compelling
cases for the retention of the pool. And their stance reinforces my
feeling that the search for support and assistance has to be widespread
and involve everyone who could and should help.

The immediate crisis in funding is the short term priority;
however the bigger issue is making sure that the pool has a safe and
secure long-term future. "