Bowmore Single Malt whisky from the beautiful Scottish island of Islay will be revealing a new limited edition expression – unlike any other Bowmore Single Malt - Bowmore Tempest on the 14th September.
The long anticipated Bowmore Tempest is a small batch release of only 2,000 cases from Islay’s oldest distillery (established in 1779). As the name suggests, the taste of Bowmore Tempest really captures the rugged and stormy sea qualities that have been associated with its weather beaten Bowmore distillery.
For ten years these first fill Bourbon casks have lain in vaults just inches from the battering waves of Loch Indaal – the result is a whisky bright summer gold in colour. The nose is engulfed by earthy smoke and a sea salt brine. A little water brings out notes of crème brulée with orange blossom and butter cream.
At first on the palate there is a surprising little burst of citrus, some lemons and orange, then comes the distinct peaty character of Islay, with a taste of the neighbouring sea. The citrus returns at the end adding balance and complexity to the mouthfeel and the finish is long, lingering yet clean.
Just as Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort developed his original Beaufort scale to describe wind effects on sailing vessels, the Bowmore Beaufort scale graph plots the complexity of Bowmore Tempest, which has been balanced by nature.
Kirsteen Beeston, Bowmore Marketing Manager said: “We are so proud to reveal Bowmore Tempest. It’s a balanced yet complex dram that really captures the spirit of the distillery on Islay and the craftsmanship that has been applied to make this beautiful tasting single malt.”
Bottles of this special single malt will be priced at £39.99* from all leading whisky specialists and selected retailers.
For further information on Bowmore Single Malt Whisky please visit www.bowmore.co.uk
Friday, 4 September 2009
ALGAL TOXIN LEVELS REDUCE IN ARGYLL AND BUTE LOCHS
All sea lochs which have been affected by raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins in the past few months are now open.
Loch Striven reopened on Tuesday (September 1), West Loch Tarbert on Wednesday (Septemebr 2) and Loch Scridain on Mull reopened yesterday (September 3).
Monitoring work undertaken by Argyll and Bute’s Environmental Health service has identified that levels of these toxins have now reduced in all areas.
The Council continues to carry out weekly monitoring at all sites, as algal blooms are a natural occurrence which are liable to recur.
For further information, please contact the Protective Services team on 01631 567920.
Loch Striven reopened on Tuesday (September 1), West Loch Tarbert on Wednesday (Septemebr 2) and Loch Scridain on Mull reopened yesterday (September 3).
Monitoring work undertaken by Argyll and Bute’s Environmental Health service has identified that levels of these toxins have now reduced in all areas.
The Council continues to carry out weekly monitoring at all sites, as algal blooms are a natural occurrence which are liable to recur.
For further information, please contact the Protective Services team on 01631 567920.
Diageo launches first ever complete collection of single-cask malt whiskies
Diageo has announced the launch of its first single-cask collection of
single malt Scotch whiskies.
This is the first time that Scotland's biggest estate of single malt
distilleries has issued a comprehensive series of single-cask bottlings.
Labelled The Managers' Choice, the rare limited-edition series is aimed at
collectors and connoisseurs who will enjoy owning and exploring an unusual
expression of their favourite single malt or even a whole anthology of
highly individual single malts, chosen to represent each of 27
distilleries’ distinctive but authentic whisky signature.
The releases are being staged in batches over the next year. September 2009
sees the first release of six malts:
Cardhu™ distilled 1997 - 252 bottles
Glen Elgin™ distilled 1998 - 534 bottles
Linkwood™ distilled 1996 - 480 bottles
Mortlach™ distilled 1997 - 240 bottles
Oban™ distilled 2000 - 534 bottles
Teaninich™ distilled 1996 - 246 bottles
Full press release available here for download along with pack shots and
images capturing aspects of the selection process. Full press release also
has price details along with quote from spokesman Nick Morgan.
Each distillery is represented in The Managers’ Choice by a bottling of
its single malt whisky drawn from one single cask, selected after a careful
examination of distillery stocks. The cask was nosed, tasted, discussed and
finally chosen as the most distinctive expression of that distillery’s
single malts by a judging panel of acknowledged experts, including leading
maturation experts and the distillery managers themselves.
The single cask challenge
Diageo whisky specialist Craig Wallace
explained the challenge of selecting a single cask for a bottling that will
be made available to a discerning and knowledgeable consumer audience:
“When you’re selecting casks for a bigger bottling, you can work with a
wider variation of maturity, distillery character and wood influence
because you can even it out and aim for consistency. But when you are
bottling a single cask, you can't do that: you have to get the balance
totally right when selecting the cask. And it's highly unlikely, whatever
single cask you choose this time, that you'd ever be able to replicate that
precise flavour profile the next time you look for one. So finding a single
cask with just the right balance is actually very challenging.”
Full details, including tasting notes, are displayed on the Classic Malts
Selection website. The new website content (available from 4 September)
includes the story of The Managers’ Choice and the selection process, a
“Meet the Managers” page where they talk about The Managers Choice
collection & questions related to the world of whisky, whisky tasting notes
& audio, Q&A with a Sensory Expert, and details of where to buy the
whiskies.
Whisky enthusiasts registered as Friends of the Classic Malts™ have been
given advance notice of the launch.
single malt Scotch whiskies.
This is the first time that Scotland's biggest estate of single malt
distilleries has issued a comprehensive series of single-cask bottlings.
Labelled The Managers' Choice, the rare limited-edition series is aimed at
collectors and connoisseurs who will enjoy owning and exploring an unusual
expression of their favourite single malt or even a whole anthology of
highly individual single malts, chosen to represent each of 27
distilleries’ distinctive but authentic whisky signature.
The releases are being staged in batches over the next year. September 2009
sees the first release of six malts:
Cardhu™ distilled 1997 - 252 bottles
Glen Elgin™ distilled 1998 - 534 bottles
Linkwood™ distilled 1996 - 480 bottles
Mortlach™ distilled 1997 - 240 bottles
Oban™ distilled 2000 - 534 bottles
Teaninich™ distilled 1996 - 246 bottles
Full press release available here for download along with pack shots and
images capturing aspects of the selection process. Full press release also
has price details along with quote from spokesman Nick Morgan.
Each distillery is represented in The Managers’ Choice by a bottling of
its single malt whisky drawn from one single cask, selected after a careful
examination of distillery stocks. The cask was nosed, tasted, discussed and
finally chosen as the most distinctive expression of that distillery’s
single malts by a judging panel of acknowledged experts, including leading
maturation experts and the distillery managers themselves.
The single cask challenge
Diageo whisky specialist Craig Wallace
explained the challenge of selecting a single cask for a bottling that will
be made available to a discerning and knowledgeable consumer audience:
“When you’re selecting casks for a bigger bottling, you can work with a
wider variation of maturity, distillery character and wood influence
because you can even it out and aim for consistency. But when you are
bottling a single cask, you can't do that: you have to get the balance
totally right when selecting the cask. And it's highly unlikely, whatever
single cask you choose this time, that you'd ever be able to replicate that
precise flavour profile the next time you look for one. So finding a single
cask with just the right balance is actually very challenging.”
Full details, including tasting notes, are displayed on the Classic Malts
Selection website. The new website content (available from 4 September)
includes the story of The Managers’ Choice and the selection process, a
“Meet the Managers” page where they talk about The Managers Choice
collection & questions related to the world of whisky, whisky tasting notes
& audio, Q&A with a Sensory Expert, and details of where to buy the
whiskies.
Whisky enthusiasts registered as Friends of the Classic Malts™ have been
given advance notice of the launch.
Bòrd na Gàidhlig a’ cur fàilte air an tuilleadh taic bhon Riaghaltas airson foghlam Gàidhlig
Bidh barrachd cothroman ann do phàrantan an cuid chloinne a chur gu sgoiltean Gàidhlig, le goireasan nas fheàrr, tro thaic airgid a tha an Riaghaltas a’ cur gu sgoiltean Gàidhlig bho Stòras Calpa nan Sgoiltean Gàidhlig.
Chuir Bòrd na Gàidhlig fàilte air an naidheachd a chaidh fhoillseachadh nas tràithe an diugh le Ministear na Gàidhlig Mìcheil Russell gu bheil Comhairle Baile Ghlaschu air £500,000 fhaighinn ach an leasaichear Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu, far a bheil àireamh chloinne air a bhith a’ sìor dhol an àird anns na bliadhnaichean as tràithe. Thèid an t-airgead a chosg air clasaichean ùrachadh.
Thuirt Cathraiche a’ Bhùird, Art MacCarmaig: “ Tha Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu air bhith air leth soirbheachail agus tha Comhairle Baile Ghlaschu agus a’ bhuidheann taice Comann nam Pàrant Glaschu rim moladh airson na rinneadh chun na h-ìre seo. Tha an àireamh chloinne anns an sgoil nis a’ dearbhadh gum faodaiste an dàrna sgoil a chur air adhart anns a’ bhaile. Tha e fìor chudromach gu bheil comhairlean eile mothachail air na th’ air a bhith a’ tachairt an seo, gun aithnich iad far a bheil iarrtasan a’ nochdadh agus gun gluais iad son sin a choileanadh. Bu chòir a bhith mothachail cuideachd air na rinneadh le na pàrantan fhèin ann an Glaschu, agus tha sin air a bhith fìor chudromach an seo. Bu chòir do phàrantan eile air feadh na dùthcha misneach a ghabhail bhon adhartas seo agus a bhith cinnteach asta fhèin a’ dol air adhart gu bhith an coluadar le ùghdarrasan ionadail ma tha iad airson leasachaidhean ann am foghlam Gàidhlig a chur air adhart anns na sgìrean agus coimhearsnachdan dham boin iad.
Tha Bòrd na Gàidhlig gu math cinnteach gu bheil feum air barrachd sgoiltean Gàidhlig ma tha sinn a’ dol a chruthachadh ginealach ùr de luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig. Tha sinn air an aon ràmh ri Ministear na Gàidhlig mun sin. Tha sgoiltean Gàidhlig a’ tairgse chothroman nas èifeachdaiche a bhith a’ cur ri dòighean ionnsachaidh agus briathrachas a thogail agus a’ tabhann barrachd chothroman cleachdaidh. Bu mhath le Bòrd na Gàidhlig gum biodh barrachd ùghdarrasan ionadail air feadh Alba mothachail air an iarrtas a th’ ann airson sgoiltean Gàidhlig leis an amas a bhith againn uile a bhith a’ toirt barrachd chothroman do dhaoine a bhith nam pàirt dhen leasachadh.”
Tha am Ministear cuideachd air ainmeachadh gum bi Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheil is Bhòid a’ faighinn taic airgid £150,000 airson foghlam Gàidhlig a thoirt air adhart anns an sgìre aca fhèin. Thèid an t-airgead seo a chosg air togalach aig bun sgoil Bhogha Mòr ann an Ìle far a bheil barrachd iarrtais air nochdadh measg chloinne anns na bliadhnaichean as tràithe.
Thuirt Mghr MacCarmaig: “Tha am Bòrd a’ cur fàilte chridheil air an naidheachd seo cuideachd a bheir an cothrom do Chomhairle Earra-Ghàidheil is Bhòid cur ri na tha a’ tachairt ann am Bogha Mòr. Bidh sinn an dòchas gun cuir seo ris a ghluasad agus gun tig barrachd iarrtasan ’na lùib. Tha fàs anns an t-struth chloinne air leth cudromach ma tha sinn a’ dol a bhuinnig ginealach ùr de dh’òigridh a tha fileanta ann an Gàidhlig.
Tha sinn an dòchas gu bheil an dòigh anns a bheil an Riaghaltas a’ stiùireadh airgead calpa gu bhith a’ leasachadh sgoiltean Gàidhlig ’na mhisneach do phàrantan agus gum bi iad deònach gluasad air adhart le iarrtasan gu ùghdarrasan ionadail air feadh na dùthcha airson leasachaidheann ann an Gàidhlig, agus sgoiltean Gàidhlig gu sònraichte, anns na coimhearsnachdan aca fhèin. ’S e fior dheagh naidheachd a tha seo do Ghlaschu, Ìle agus saoghal na Gàidhlig.”
Chuir Bòrd na Gàidhlig fàilte air an naidheachd a chaidh fhoillseachadh nas tràithe an diugh le Ministear na Gàidhlig Mìcheil Russell gu bheil Comhairle Baile Ghlaschu air £500,000 fhaighinn ach an leasaichear Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu, far a bheil àireamh chloinne air a bhith a’ sìor dhol an àird anns na bliadhnaichean as tràithe. Thèid an t-airgead a chosg air clasaichean ùrachadh.
Thuirt Cathraiche a’ Bhùird, Art MacCarmaig: “ Tha Sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu air bhith air leth soirbheachail agus tha Comhairle Baile Ghlaschu agus a’ bhuidheann taice Comann nam Pàrant Glaschu rim moladh airson na rinneadh chun na h-ìre seo. Tha an àireamh chloinne anns an sgoil nis a’ dearbhadh gum faodaiste an dàrna sgoil a chur air adhart anns a’ bhaile. Tha e fìor chudromach gu bheil comhairlean eile mothachail air na th’ air a bhith a’ tachairt an seo, gun aithnich iad far a bheil iarrtasan a’ nochdadh agus gun gluais iad son sin a choileanadh. Bu chòir a bhith mothachail cuideachd air na rinneadh le na pàrantan fhèin ann an Glaschu, agus tha sin air a bhith fìor chudromach an seo. Bu chòir do phàrantan eile air feadh na dùthcha misneach a ghabhail bhon adhartas seo agus a bhith cinnteach asta fhèin a’ dol air adhart gu bhith an coluadar le ùghdarrasan ionadail ma tha iad airson leasachaidhean ann am foghlam Gàidhlig a chur air adhart anns na sgìrean agus coimhearsnachdan dham boin iad.
Tha Bòrd na Gàidhlig gu math cinnteach gu bheil feum air barrachd sgoiltean Gàidhlig ma tha sinn a’ dol a chruthachadh ginealach ùr de luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig. Tha sinn air an aon ràmh ri Ministear na Gàidhlig mun sin. Tha sgoiltean Gàidhlig a’ tairgse chothroman nas èifeachdaiche a bhith a’ cur ri dòighean ionnsachaidh agus briathrachas a thogail agus a’ tabhann barrachd chothroman cleachdaidh. Bu mhath le Bòrd na Gàidhlig gum biodh barrachd ùghdarrasan ionadail air feadh Alba mothachail air an iarrtas a th’ ann airson sgoiltean Gàidhlig leis an amas a bhith againn uile a bhith a’ toirt barrachd chothroman do dhaoine a bhith nam pàirt dhen leasachadh.”
Tha am Ministear cuideachd air ainmeachadh gum bi Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheil is Bhòid a’ faighinn taic airgid £150,000 airson foghlam Gàidhlig a thoirt air adhart anns an sgìre aca fhèin. Thèid an t-airgead seo a chosg air togalach aig bun sgoil Bhogha Mòr ann an Ìle far a bheil barrachd iarrtais air nochdadh measg chloinne anns na bliadhnaichean as tràithe.
Thuirt Mghr MacCarmaig: “Tha am Bòrd a’ cur fàilte chridheil air an naidheachd seo cuideachd a bheir an cothrom do Chomhairle Earra-Ghàidheil is Bhòid cur ri na tha a’ tachairt ann am Bogha Mòr. Bidh sinn an dòchas gun cuir seo ris a ghluasad agus gun tig barrachd iarrtasan ’na lùib. Tha fàs anns an t-struth chloinne air leth cudromach ma tha sinn a’ dol a bhuinnig ginealach ùr de dh’òigridh a tha fileanta ann an Gàidhlig.
Tha sinn an dòchas gu bheil an dòigh anns a bheil an Riaghaltas a’ stiùireadh airgead calpa gu bhith a’ leasachadh sgoiltean Gàidhlig ’na mhisneach do phàrantan agus gum bi iad deònach gluasad air adhart le iarrtasan gu ùghdarrasan ionadail air feadh na dùthcha airson leasachaidheann ann an Gàidhlig, agus sgoiltean Gàidhlig gu sònraichte, anns na coimhearsnachdan aca fhèin. ’S e fior dheagh naidheachd a tha seo do Ghlaschu, Ìle agus saoghal na Gàidhlig.”
New Gaelic Medium Pre-school building for Bowmore Primary School
A new facility for early years Gaelic medium education is to be created at Bowmore Primary School.
The development comes as a result of an announcement by Minister for Gaelic, Michael Russell, that Argyll and Bute Council is to receive £150,000 to increase the provision of Gaelic-medium education.
The money will come from the Scottish Government’s Gaelic Schools Capital Fund.
It will be spent on a new modular building, which will be installed at Bowmore Primary to meet the increased demand for early years places. Argyll and Bute Council’s Spokesperson for Education and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Isobel Strong, said: “I am obviously delighted that this funding commitment has been made by the Scottish Government.
“Argyll is the historical heartland of Scots Gaelic. Ever since the implementation of our Gaelic Language Strategy, Argyll and Bute Council has reinforced its commitment to the revitalisation of the Gaelic language.
“As part of that strategy, we made a commitment to continuing to develop existing Gaelic pre-school provision where the demand exists, and today’s announcement allows us to do just that on Islay.
“I am sure that today’s news will be welcomed by the local community, and I very much look forward to visiting the new facility once it is up and running.”
Making the announcement, Michael Russell said: “Last month, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning and I committed to taking urgent and necessary action to create a new generation of Gaelic speakers.
“Argyll and Bute of course has strong Gaelic links and it is great to see demand growing from parents to provide their children with a Gaelic education. This increased investment will help Argyll and Bute meet that demand and contribute towards our efforts to build a strong and sustainable future for Gaelic.”
In addition to Bowmore, Argyll and Bute Council currently has pre-school Gaelic units at, Salen Primary (Mull), Oban Primary Campus, Sandbank Primary (Dunoon) and Tiree Primary.
Six primary schools in Argyll and Bute have Gaelic-medium units - Bowmore, Salen, St Columba's Primary in Oban, Tiree, Sandbank and Strath of Appin Primary south of Ballachulish. Four secondary schools in the area have Gaelic units – Islay, Oban, Tiree and Tobermory.
The First Minister announced the establishment of the Gaelic Schools Capital Fund at the Royal National Mòd last October.
The development comes as a result of an announcement by Minister for Gaelic, Michael Russell, that Argyll and Bute Council is to receive £150,000 to increase the provision of Gaelic-medium education.
The money will come from the Scottish Government’s Gaelic Schools Capital Fund.
It will be spent on a new modular building, which will be installed at Bowmore Primary to meet the increased demand for early years places. Argyll and Bute Council’s Spokesperson for Education and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Isobel Strong, said: “I am obviously delighted that this funding commitment has been made by the Scottish Government.
“Argyll is the historical heartland of Scots Gaelic. Ever since the implementation of our Gaelic Language Strategy, Argyll and Bute Council has reinforced its commitment to the revitalisation of the Gaelic language.
“As part of that strategy, we made a commitment to continuing to develop existing Gaelic pre-school provision where the demand exists, and today’s announcement allows us to do just that on Islay.
“I am sure that today’s news will be welcomed by the local community, and I very much look forward to visiting the new facility once it is up and running.”
Making the announcement, Michael Russell said: “Last month, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning and I committed to taking urgent and necessary action to create a new generation of Gaelic speakers.
“Argyll and Bute of course has strong Gaelic links and it is great to see demand growing from parents to provide their children with a Gaelic education. This increased investment will help Argyll and Bute meet that demand and contribute towards our efforts to build a strong and sustainable future for Gaelic.”
In addition to Bowmore, Argyll and Bute Council currently has pre-school Gaelic units at, Salen Primary (Mull), Oban Primary Campus, Sandbank Primary (Dunoon) and Tiree Primary.
Six primary schools in Argyll and Bute have Gaelic-medium units - Bowmore, Salen, St Columba's Primary in Oban, Tiree, Sandbank and Strath of Appin Primary south of Ballachulish. Four secondary schools in the area have Gaelic units – Islay, Oban, Tiree and Tobermory.
The First Minister announced the establishment of the Gaelic Schools Capital Fund at the Royal National Mòd last October.
Thursday, 3 September 2009
COUNCIL WELCOMES TARBERT'S BIG CATCH
Argyll and Bute Council has welcomed the news that Tarbert Loch Fyne has secured £984,500 from the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Regeneration Fund.
Councillor Dick Walsh, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council said, “I am absolutely delighted at the news about Tarbert and, on behalf of the council, who are joint applicants, I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate all those involved in preparing the bid. It is yet another huge boost for the local economy and for the economy of Argyll and Bute as a whole.”
Local Councillor Anne Horn said, “This is fantastic news for Tarbert. The decision to award this funding towards the regeneration of the town centre will be welcomed by all those who have worked so hard for a positive outcome.
I congratulate the Harbour Board for leading the application, and am delighted that it has been successful. Everyone associated with the town is now looking forward to seeing the work start and the waterfront area become the major attraction it should be.
This scheme is a great example of the Scottish Government empowering local communities to make their own decisions regarding a sustainable future, and I am thrilled that Tarbert has been recognised as a worthy recipient.”
Argyll and Bute Council is contributing £103k as match funding for the Tarbert bid.
Tarbert was one of 48 Scottish towns to receive a share of the £40 million which is the first tranche of the £60 million fund and is one of six bids from Argyll and Bute. The remaining £20 million is due to be allocated later this year.
Councillor Walsh added, “I am of course extremely disappointed that other areas of Argyll and Bute have not been successful at this stage. The competition was very stiff and of 133 bids, only 48 were successful. However, we have received constructive feedback on all the bids and will be working hard to make the best possible case when we submit bids for a share of the remaining £20 million.
Successful or not, we must bear in mind that any money which helps to kick start the local economy is to the benefit of everyone and not just the immediate locale.”
Councillor Dick Walsh, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council said, “I am absolutely delighted at the news about Tarbert and, on behalf of the council, who are joint applicants, I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate all those involved in preparing the bid. It is yet another huge boost for the local economy and for the economy of Argyll and Bute as a whole.”
Local Councillor Anne Horn said, “This is fantastic news for Tarbert. The decision to award this funding towards the regeneration of the town centre will be welcomed by all those who have worked so hard for a positive outcome.
I congratulate the Harbour Board for leading the application, and am delighted that it has been successful. Everyone associated with the town is now looking forward to seeing the work start and the waterfront area become the major attraction it should be.
This scheme is a great example of the Scottish Government empowering local communities to make their own decisions regarding a sustainable future, and I am thrilled that Tarbert has been recognised as a worthy recipient.”
Argyll and Bute Council is contributing £103k as match funding for the Tarbert bid.
Tarbert was one of 48 Scottish towns to receive a share of the £40 million which is the first tranche of the £60 million fund and is one of six bids from Argyll and Bute. The remaining £20 million is due to be allocated later this year.
Councillor Walsh added, “I am of course extremely disappointed that other areas of Argyll and Bute have not been successful at this stage. The competition was very stiff and of 133 bids, only 48 were successful. However, we have received constructive feedback on all the bids and will be working hard to make the best possible case when we submit bids for a share of the remaining £20 million.
Successful or not, we must bear in mind that any money which helps to kick start the local economy is to the benefit of everyone and not just the immediate locale.”
NEW EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY SCHEME FOR ARGYLL AND BUTE
A new document designed to ensure that Argyll and Bute Council promotes equality in terms of race, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation and religion was adopted by the authority.
The new Single Equality and Diversity Scheme aims to enable the Council to better address the needs of all members of the diverse communities it serves, by combining all previous equality actions into one plan.
A public consultation on the draft document was carried out earlier this year, with individuals as well as local organisations, voluntary groups and all other interested parties invited to give their views.
The Council also offered face-to-face meetings with community groups to discuss the draft Scheme, and copies of the document were sent out to Access Panels, Community Care Forums, our Community Planning Partners and the Council’s Employee Equality Forum.
The final document was drawn up with consideration to all comments received from stakeholders and partners, and was approved at a meeting of the Full Council today.
Argyll and Bute Council leader, Councillor Dick Walsh, said he was confident it would prove a vital tool in the bid to improve services for all.
“We want to celebrate Argyll and Bute’s diversity, and this Scheme provides the framework within which we can make sure that happens,” he added.
“We recognise that individuals are different, and we need to ensure that there is equality among our diverse communities.
“Achieving equality is a driver for improving services to all members of the community, and is integral to the Council’s overall performance.
“Equality is about people having equal life chances, equal dignity and worth and equal participation. We will continue to strive to achieve this in every area of Council business.”
The Single Equality and Diversity Scheme replaces several other documents, including the Race Equality and Diversity Scheme (published in November 2002 and revised in September 2004) and the Equal Opportunities Policy.
It will be a key resource in helping to prepare the Council for the new provisions in the Equality Bill, which is due to pass through Parliament later this year and become law in 2011.
Through its Action Plan, the scheme is also aligned with the Council’s Corporate Plan and with individual Service Plans.
The Council will use the new document as a basis for pursuing its objectives, among which are:
· celebrating diversity
· ensuring equality in the development and delivery of its services
· being an equal opportunities employer
· improving community engagement
Using the Council’s Equality Impact Assessment, all Council policies, strategies and procedures, both new and revised, will be assessed for their likely impact on different groups of people and individuals.
By assessing all new initiatives, the authority will be able to identify any likely cause of inequality at the planning stage and remove it.
The new Single Equality and Diversity Scheme aims to enable the Council to better address the needs of all members of the diverse communities it serves, by combining all previous equality actions into one plan.
A public consultation on the draft document was carried out earlier this year, with individuals as well as local organisations, voluntary groups and all other interested parties invited to give their views.
The Council also offered face-to-face meetings with community groups to discuss the draft Scheme, and copies of the document were sent out to Access Panels, Community Care Forums, our Community Planning Partners and the Council’s Employee Equality Forum.
The final document was drawn up with consideration to all comments received from stakeholders and partners, and was approved at a meeting of the Full Council today.
Argyll and Bute Council leader, Councillor Dick Walsh, said he was confident it would prove a vital tool in the bid to improve services for all.
“We want to celebrate Argyll and Bute’s diversity, and this Scheme provides the framework within which we can make sure that happens,” he added.
“We recognise that individuals are different, and we need to ensure that there is equality among our diverse communities.
“Achieving equality is a driver for improving services to all members of the community, and is integral to the Council’s overall performance.
“Equality is about people having equal life chances, equal dignity and worth and equal participation. We will continue to strive to achieve this in every area of Council business.”
The Single Equality and Diversity Scheme replaces several other documents, including the Race Equality and Diversity Scheme (published in November 2002 and revised in September 2004) and the Equal Opportunities Policy.
It will be a key resource in helping to prepare the Council for the new provisions in the Equality Bill, which is due to pass through Parliament later this year and become law in 2011.
Through its Action Plan, the scheme is also aligned with the Council’s Corporate Plan and with individual Service Plans.
The Council will use the new document as a basis for pursuing its objectives, among which are:
· celebrating diversity
· ensuring equality in the development and delivery of its services
· being an equal opportunities employer
· improving community engagement
Using the Council’s Equality Impact Assessment, all Council policies, strategies and procedures, both new and revised, will be assessed for their likely impact on different groups of people and individuals.
By assessing all new initiatives, the authority will be able to identify any likely cause of inequality at the planning stage and remove it.
Organic Developments for Islay Distiller
The first ever organic Islay single malt whisky has been released to coincide with the opening of a new island barley facility for farmers and Bruichladdich distillery.
Bruichladdich has released the world’s first organic Islay single malt whisky on the day the Hebridean island’s first grain facility opened - in time for this year’s barley harvest.
This is the ultimate “single”, single malt (single farm, harvest, variety and vintage) distilled from Chalice barley grown by William Rose at Culblair in summer of 2003.
This first organic bottling represents the direction Bruichladdich has been going since it was reopened in 2001. Unparalleled Scottish provenance, quality, variety and traceability.
Duncan McGillivray, manager of the privately-owned distillery, said: “it’s the way is used to be - ultimate authenticity - real people, real places, real character. That’s what we’re about”
All Bruichladdich whisky is naturally bottled at the distillery in the island’s only bottling hall at 46% alc/vol with Islay spring water – chill-filtration and colouring-free.
The Octofad facility (weighbridge, unloading area, drying house and storage) means each of the 15 Islay farm’s harvests can be kept separate until ready for malting later in the year.
“Being able to dry our barley “off the field” makes harvesting logistics less frantic, less risky and more efficient. With the current poor weather it is not a moment too soon”
“Environmentally too, by trucking one load of ‘green’ barley to the maltings at Bairds, and returning with one load of ‘malted’ barley means less of a footprint.”
“We’re very proud; it’s the culmination of a great team effort. People thought we were mad, perhaps we are, but the taste makes it all worth while; the proof is in the pudding.”
Bruichladdich has released the world’s first organic Islay single malt whisky on the day the Hebridean island’s first grain facility opened - in time for this year’s barley harvest.
This is the ultimate “single”, single malt (single farm, harvest, variety and vintage) distilled from Chalice barley grown by William Rose at Culblair in summer of 2003.
This first organic bottling represents the direction Bruichladdich has been going since it was reopened in 2001. Unparalleled Scottish provenance, quality, variety and traceability.
Duncan McGillivray, manager of the privately-owned distillery, said: “it’s the way is used to be - ultimate authenticity - real people, real places, real character. That’s what we’re about”
All Bruichladdich whisky is naturally bottled at the distillery in the island’s only bottling hall at 46% alc/vol with Islay spring water – chill-filtration and colouring-free.
The Octofad facility (weighbridge, unloading area, drying house and storage) means each of the 15 Islay farm’s harvests can be kept separate until ready for malting later in the year.
“Being able to dry our barley “off the field” makes harvesting logistics less frantic, less risky and more efficient. With the current poor weather it is not a moment too soon”
“Environmentally too, by trucking one load of ‘green’ barley to the maltings at Bairds, and returning with one load of ‘malted’ barley means less of a footprint.”
“We’re very proud; it’s the culmination of a great team effort. People thought we were mad, perhaps we are, but the taste makes it all worth while; the proof is in the pudding.”
Jamie McGrigor MSP on Digital TV Switchover
Jamie McGrigor MSP, Scottish Conservative MSP for the Highlands and Islands met today with a representative from Digital UK to discuss the nationwide transfer from analogue to digital television. John MacNeil, assistant national manager of STV North, visited the Scottish Parliament this morning to brief Jamie McGrigor on the upcoming switchover. The meeting focused on how the changes are going to affect McGrigor’s constituents who watch STV News North in the Highlands & Islands of Scotland and those in Argyll & Bute and parts of Lochaber who watch the West of Scotland STV news programmes.
Jamie commented that:
“This marks a revolution in television that will be benefiting even the most rural parts of my region by the end of 2011. Many people who have never had access to more than four or five channels in the past will now be able to get the full and extensive range that is offered by digital TV.
“Everyone in my region must be kept abreast of these developments so that they can prepare for them accordingly.”
McGrigor said that people need to understand the necessity of their televisions being converted to digital by the time that their region has made the switch. TVs that currently receive Freeview through a set top box will be least affected and may only need retuning on the existing set top box. Constituents can find out when the transmitter in their area is going to implement the changes by using the postcode checker at www.digital.co.uk or calling 08456 505050.
Jamie added:
“ Digital UK would like to emphasise that almost every television can be converted to digital so there should not be any need for people to buy new TVs.”
At the meeting today John MacNeil also gave details on the Switchover Help Scheme that can help certain, eligible people to adjust to this. McGrigor wished to stress that those who might qualify for the assistance, such as the elderly, disabled people or those living in care homes should look out for information about it in the post and respond as soon as possible if they want to opt in to the scheme.
“I was delighted to be able to talk about all of this with Mr MacNeil, and am very optimistic about the improvements that it will make to people’s lives in the Highlands and Islands. Any community that desires more information can contact me or visit the Digital UK website.”
Jamie commented that:
“This marks a revolution in television that will be benefiting even the most rural parts of my region by the end of 2011. Many people who have never had access to more than four or five channels in the past will now be able to get the full and extensive range that is offered by digital TV.
“Everyone in my region must be kept abreast of these developments so that they can prepare for them accordingly.”
McGrigor said that people need to understand the necessity of their televisions being converted to digital by the time that their region has made the switch. TVs that currently receive Freeview through a set top box will be least affected and may only need retuning on the existing set top box. Constituents can find out when the transmitter in their area is going to implement the changes by using the postcode checker at www.digital.co.uk or calling 08456 505050.
Jamie added:
“ Digital UK would like to emphasise that almost every television can be converted to digital so there should not be any need for people to buy new TVs.”
At the meeting today John MacNeil also gave details on the Switchover Help Scheme that can help certain, eligible people to adjust to this. McGrigor wished to stress that those who might qualify for the assistance, such as the elderly, disabled people or those living in care homes should look out for information about it in the post and respond as soon as possible if they want to opt in to the scheme.
“I was delighted to be able to talk about all of this with Mr MacNeil, and am very optimistic about the improvements that it will make to people’s lives in the Highlands and Islands. Any community that desires more information can contact me or visit the Digital UK website.”
Ardbeg Corryvreckan Launched – Inspired by Europe’s Largest Whirlpool
The iconic whisky distillery Ardbeg – which has won the coveted World Whisky of the Year title two years running – announces today (Tuesday 1 September) the launch of Ardbeg Corryvreckan, a whisky inspired by the famous Corryvreckan whirlpool.
Corryvreckan is Europe’s largest, and the world’s second largest whirlpool. It lies near Jura and Islay, Ardbeg’s island home.
Considered by the Royal Navy as one of the most dangerous stretches of water in the British Isles, the Corryvreckan whirlpool can be heard from a distance of 10 miles. The whirlpool’s raw, magnetic power exactly mirrors Ardbeg – the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay whiskies.
Dr Bill Lumsden, Head of Distilling and Whisky Creation, explained: “Like the whirlpool, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is heady, intense and powerful. Its ‘finish’ is long and deep, leaving the connoisseur with a lingering thought of a mysterious and daring journey.
“Experiments initiated in 1999, and continued ever since, have created parcels of Ardbeg stock slowly maturing in French oak casks on Islay. These are at the heart of Corryvreckan's perplexing character, teasing spicy and sumptuous sweet fruity notes from the maturing whisky.”
Ardbeg Brand Director, Hamish Torrie, added: “Ardbeg Corryvreckan has already had a tremendous welcome from our loyal followers, the Ardbeg Committee, in 2008, when we released 5,000 preview bottles. Their hugely positive reaction has encouraged us to add Ardbeg Corryvreckan to the regular Ardbeg range.”
Ardbeg Corryvreckan will be available from 21 September at a price of around £60 (pounds sterling) in shops and online at www.ardbeg.com. Bottled at a strength of 57.1% ABV and non chill-filtered, to impart full body and texture, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is the epitome of what Ardbeg stands for: “the untamed spirit of Islay”.
Corryvreckan is Europe’s largest, and the world’s second largest whirlpool. It lies near Jura and Islay, Ardbeg’s island home.
Considered by the Royal Navy as one of the most dangerous stretches of water in the British Isles, the Corryvreckan whirlpool can be heard from a distance of 10 miles. The whirlpool’s raw, magnetic power exactly mirrors Ardbeg – the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay whiskies.
Dr Bill Lumsden, Head of Distilling and Whisky Creation, explained: “Like the whirlpool, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is heady, intense and powerful. Its ‘finish’ is long and deep, leaving the connoisseur with a lingering thought of a mysterious and daring journey.
“Experiments initiated in 1999, and continued ever since, have created parcels of Ardbeg stock slowly maturing in French oak casks on Islay. These are at the heart of Corryvreckan's perplexing character, teasing spicy and sumptuous sweet fruity notes from the maturing whisky.”
Ardbeg Brand Director, Hamish Torrie, added: “Ardbeg Corryvreckan has already had a tremendous welcome from our loyal followers, the Ardbeg Committee, in 2008, when we released 5,000 preview bottles. Their hugely positive reaction has encouraged us to add Ardbeg Corryvreckan to the regular Ardbeg range.”
Ardbeg Corryvreckan will be available from 21 September at a price of around £60 (pounds sterling) in shops and online at www.ardbeg.com. Bottled at a strength of 57.1% ABV and non chill-filtered, to impart full body and texture, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is the epitome of what Ardbeg stands for: “the untamed spirit of Islay”.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
