Initial findings of Scottish research into the implementation of controversial European rules on the Electronic Identification (EID) of sheep have served to highlight the flaws in such an unpopular piece of legislation, according to NFU Scotland.
The pilot looks at implementation of Regulation 21/2004, due to come into force at the end of this year, which will make it obligatory for all Scottish sheep keepers to electronically tag most sheep born after 31 December 2009 and keep a record of animals’ individual identities every time they move.
Phase one of the pilot, funded by the Scottish Government and co-ordinated by the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS) found that the technology currently available to sheep producers delivers 96 percent accuracy. At the end of phase one, the 209 farmers involved in the trial remained concerned over the cost and practicalities of complying with the regulation and concluded that for those working with large numbers of animals the proposals are impracticable.
Farmer involvement with the pilot will become increasingly important as it moves into phase two, which will look at crucial areas such as the introduction of electronic scanning into markets and abattoirs and the importance of a national central database to log sheep movements.
NFU Scotland President, Jim McLaren said:
“The Scottish pilot looking at implementing this poor piece of European legislation at farm level is hugely important in the information it will provide even though the evidence to date has largely served to highlight the flaws that we already knew were inherent in such a system.
“To a lay person, a 96 percent accuracy rate may appear to be acceptable but it is the four percent failure rate that calls the whole European requirement into question.
“Given that those farmers involved in the trial are committed to making EID work, it is highly unlikely that such a level of accuracy would be repeated when rolled out across all of Scotland’s seven million sheep. In Scotland, sheep traditionally move from farm to farm, from farm to market and from farm to abattoir. If there is a high level of inaccuracy, then it quickly unwinds the credibility of introducing such a system in the first place.
“When you add in that the hundreds of farmers currently participating in the pilot continue to harbour concerns about practicality and cost, particularly for the larger flock sizes seen in Scotland, then there are some massive challenges to rolling out this regulation from the start of next year.
“In terms of implementation, phase two of the pilot is hugely important because it will shed light on the role of markets and abattoirs in movement recording, as well as looking at the role of a central database in Scotland.
“Compliance with the regulation will saddle sheep farmers with additional costs in terms of tags, equipment and labour and we continue to work with Scottish Government and other stakeholders to minimise the worst of what is a bad piece of legislation.”
Friday, 9 October 2009
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Week: 42
Date: Saturday, 17 October – Friday, 23 October 2009
Title: Spòrs - Aberdeen v Hearts
Join the House of Sport team for the SPL 90, sports action, news and interviews.
Transmitted: Saturday 17th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Blas 2009 Music Festival
Highlights from the 'East Meets West' concert from the Blas 2009 festival featuring Karen Matheson, Michael Marra and James Graham.
Transmitted: Saturday 17th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh: Clans
What role do Clans play today? As modern day Chiefs and their Clans gather in Edinburgh, Trusadh explores the romanticism and myths alongside the modern day appeal to those overseas regarding Scottish Clans.
Transmitted: Monday 19th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Ceol Country: Country Music Caithness
Great country music from the Northern Nashville festival in Caithness. Includes performances from Michelle Wright, Robert Mizzell and Eamon McCann.
Transmitted: Tuesday 20th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Rapal TV: Indie Music Wake The President
Featuring some of the best new music in Scotland. Tonight in the studio, the jangly indie guitar sound of Glasgow band Wake the President with their witty sharp lyrical observation of day to day life.
We'll also take a look at Cornwall, and the revival of a language, with new contemporary songs in their own language. And we'll have a brand new video some fantastic folk-pop from Zoey van Goey!
Transmitted: Wednesday 21st October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Grinn/Makeover
Grinn helps a young couple from Skye transform their wardrobe and step out in style.
Transmitted: Friday 23rd October 2009
Time: 21:00
Date: Saturday, 17 October – Friday, 23 October 2009
Title: Spòrs - Aberdeen v Hearts
Join the House of Sport team for the SPL 90, sports action, news and interviews.
Transmitted: Saturday 17th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Blas 2009 Music Festival
Highlights from the 'East Meets West' concert from the Blas 2009 festival featuring Karen Matheson, Michael Marra and James Graham.
Transmitted: Saturday 17th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh: Clans
What role do Clans play today? As modern day Chiefs and their Clans gather in Edinburgh, Trusadh explores the romanticism and myths alongside the modern day appeal to those overseas regarding Scottish Clans.
Transmitted: Monday 19th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Ceol Country: Country Music Caithness
Great country music from the Northern Nashville festival in Caithness. Includes performances from Michelle Wright, Robert Mizzell and Eamon McCann.
Transmitted: Tuesday 20th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Rapal TV: Indie Music Wake The President
Featuring some of the best new music in Scotland. Tonight in the studio, the jangly indie guitar sound of Glasgow band Wake the President with their witty sharp lyrical observation of day to day life.
We'll also take a look at Cornwall, and the revival of a language, with new contemporary songs in their own language. And we'll have a brand new video some fantastic folk-pop from Zoey van Goey!
Transmitted: Wednesday 21st October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Grinn/Makeover
Grinn helps a young couple from Skye transform their wardrobe and step out in style.
Transmitted: Friday 23rd October 2009
Time: 21:00
Digital investment key to Highlands and Islands growth
A comprehensive report commissioned by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is outlining the importance of world class telecoms to the economic future of the region.
As Glasgow and Edinburgh gear up for super-fast broadband provision, the agency is looking at the goals that need to be set to encourage private and public investment in the Highlands and Islands.
The report identifies a staged development of provision in the region. There is already a high level of availability and HIE’s priorities are to help broadband users achieve improved speeds - in line with the ‘Digital Britain’ commitments, as well as supporting the roll out of mobile 3G and the infrastructure needed for next generation broadband.
“Technology is so important to our economy that it underpins almost everything HIE is trying to achieve. There has been considerable public sector funding put into overcoming the challenges of connecting services, businesses and individuals in the Highlands and Islands. The role of the internet and mobile technology is increasingly pivotal in everything from education, to supporting health care services, to opening up new markets to business, and nowhere are the benefits felt more keenly than in remote and rural areas,” said Alex Paterson, HIE director of regional competitiveness.
He added: “Local people are embracing these opportunities and the report shows that broadband take-up is higher here than for Scotland or the UK. The area has already had to think innovatively to tackle the issues surrounding connectivity and our next step, given the additional costs in rural areas, is to provide strong business and social arguments as to why we should be a priority for next generation access (NGA).”
NGA involves replacing some or all of the current copper phone line and fibre optic cables to offer significantly higher broadband speeds - typically in excess of 40Mbit/s. NGA is considered to deliver significant economic and social benefits.
The report examines the infrastructure which will be required and the cost to deliver it across the region. The figures estimate it will cost around £81m to deploy ‘fibre to the cabinet’ (FTTC) right across the Highlands and Islands, and £480m to deliver fibre connectivity directly to the region's households and businesses.
It estimates that roll-out of NGA could be commercially viable for around 40% of Highlands and Islands premises because costs will be in line with those anticipated for other UK roll-outs. However, this leaves a funding gap which HIE wishes to see closed.
Mr Paterson commented: "Telecoms connectivity is a cornerstone of the digital economy, and provides opportunities to accelerate innovation and raise productivity. HIE is committed to ensuring that the region attracts funding and consequently infrastructure for Next Generation Access broadband coverage; it will be key to our ambition to be one of the most competitive regions in the world."
As Glasgow and Edinburgh gear up for super-fast broadband provision, the agency is looking at the goals that need to be set to encourage private and public investment in the Highlands and Islands.
The report identifies a staged development of provision in the region. There is already a high level of availability and HIE’s priorities are to help broadband users achieve improved speeds - in line with the ‘Digital Britain’ commitments, as well as supporting the roll out of mobile 3G and the infrastructure needed for next generation broadband.
“Technology is so important to our economy that it underpins almost everything HIE is trying to achieve. There has been considerable public sector funding put into overcoming the challenges of connecting services, businesses and individuals in the Highlands and Islands. The role of the internet and mobile technology is increasingly pivotal in everything from education, to supporting health care services, to opening up new markets to business, and nowhere are the benefits felt more keenly than in remote and rural areas,” said Alex Paterson, HIE director of regional competitiveness.
He added: “Local people are embracing these opportunities and the report shows that broadband take-up is higher here than for Scotland or the UK. The area has already had to think innovatively to tackle the issues surrounding connectivity and our next step, given the additional costs in rural areas, is to provide strong business and social arguments as to why we should be a priority for next generation access (NGA).”
NGA involves replacing some or all of the current copper phone line and fibre optic cables to offer significantly higher broadband speeds - typically in excess of 40Mbit/s. NGA is considered to deliver significant economic and social benefits.
The report examines the infrastructure which will be required and the cost to deliver it across the region. The figures estimate it will cost around £81m to deploy ‘fibre to the cabinet’ (FTTC) right across the Highlands and Islands, and £480m to deliver fibre connectivity directly to the region's households and businesses.
It estimates that roll-out of NGA could be commercially viable for around 40% of Highlands and Islands premises because costs will be in line with those anticipated for other UK roll-outs. However, this leaves a funding gap which HIE wishes to see closed.
Mr Paterson commented: "Telecoms connectivity is a cornerstone of the digital economy, and provides opportunities to accelerate innovation and raise productivity. HIE is committed to ensuring that the region attracts funding and consequently infrastructure for Next Generation Access broadband coverage; it will be key to our ambition to be one of the most competitive regions in the world."
Jamie McGrigor MSP on Rural Housing
Text of speech in Scottish Parliament
Presiding Officer,
I am pleased to be winding up for the Scottish Conservatives in what has been for the most part a useful and constructive debate. Like others I pay tribute to the members, clerks and support staff of the Rural Affairs & Environment Committee for their hard work in preparing this thorough report. The Committee was correct to identify rural housing as a priority subject after the 2007 election. Rural housing is an especially massive issue for my region of the Highlands & Islands as, put simply, accessing an affordable home is still far too difficult for too many families in my region. This has major implications for attracting and retaining the key workers and young families we need and for the sustainability of our communities, particularly in the most remote rural and island localities. I am happy to welcome the broad thrust of the Committee’s report, namely that many more houses need to be built in rural Scotland, in both small towns and villages and in the countryside too, as correct. And to achieve that we must see the “cultural change” away from a presumption against development in the countryside which the Committee rightly identifies. It seems that there is also a presumption by Community Councils to be contra instead of pro at the outset regarding planning applications for building- surely it should be the other way round?
We have long put forward the view that planning guidelines in rural areas can be too restrictive and in our 2007 manifesto specifically identified the requirement to service the accommodation needs of retiring farmers which remains an important issue.
As my party’s Spokesman on Housing and Communities, for the last two years I have consistently argued that more priority should be given to the Rural Empty Property Grant (REPG) scheme. I note that the Committee said in its report that the take up of this scheme has been “deeply disappointing” and that the Government needs to learn the lessons from this as it implements the very welcome Rural Homes for Rent scheme and I agree with this. I am aware that the Government is still conducting a review into the Rural Empty Property Grant scheme- along with the Rural Home Owner’s Grant scheme- and I look forward to the results of this review. The scheme has real potential which has sadly not been achieved in large enough numbers. All of us who represent rural constituencies know only too well how many empty, unused or dilapidated farm cottages and steadings there are which can be renovated to provide good quality and affordable homes for rent in our rural communities. I myself recently visited a very impressive steading renovation at Cladich in Argyll which took advantage of the REPG to create five cottages for affordable letting to local people. I am keen to see the scheme publicised more effectively and made as attractive as possible to potential private individuals, farmers, estates and housing trusts. Concerns have also been raised with me about the length of time an application takes and I trust the Government will be considering this and other operational factors in its review of the scheme. At the end of the day landowners and farmers need to be given adequate incentives to bring properties back into a state of repair for renting to locals rather than selling them off. The report is rightly positive about the role that the private sector, including landowners, can play in providing affordable homes and we would urge Ministers to engage fully with the private rented sector in rural areas, and build up relationships which are currently under-utilised. Some good work has been done and we must build on this and expand the examples of best practice.
The provision of land for housing in rural areas has been raised by a number of members today and understandably features to a large extent in the Committee’s report. I agree strongly with the suggestion that the responsibility to free up land for housing should not lie solely with private landowners but with the public sector as well. This point was well made by the chairman of my local Housing Association, Alastair MacGregor of Argyll Community Housing Association who said in his evidence to the Committee that “if central government, the Ministry of Defence, local government and agencies such as the Forestry Commission were brought into the picture and were able to release land from their land banks, that along with our current resources, would assist us dramatically.” I am aware that the Forestry Commission has made some good progress in this direction under the National Forest Land Scheme and the Scottish Conservatives would like to see this extended to all our other public agencies. We take the view that there should be no difference between the public and private sectors in this regard and the public sector should receive the same encouragement as the private sector for considering the appropriateness of land for the development of affordable housing.
Time prevents me from covering some of the other key issues in the report but I was pleased to see the Committee emphasise that the Scottish Government should investigate the widespread concerns that the assumptions behind proposed changes to housing association grant take insufficient note of the extra burdens faced by rural social rented housing providers. In many cases rural housing associations have to develop small projects that do not benefit from the economies of scale that urban housing associations can accrue. I know that many of my constituents would also welcome SEPA serving more effectively as a “facilitator of rural development” rather than a block to sensible rural development as many people have unfortunately found them to be in the past.
Today’s debate has been welcome and we look to Ministers to respond positively and quickly to many of the practical recommendations contained in the report. All of us in this chamber share the same aim: of seeing our rural areas have an adequate supply of good quality, affordable, well insulated and energy efficient homes that can help sustain vibrant and productive rural communities.
Presiding Officer,
I am pleased to be winding up for the Scottish Conservatives in what has been for the most part a useful and constructive debate. Like others I pay tribute to the members, clerks and support staff of the Rural Affairs & Environment Committee for their hard work in preparing this thorough report. The Committee was correct to identify rural housing as a priority subject after the 2007 election. Rural housing is an especially massive issue for my region of the Highlands & Islands as, put simply, accessing an affordable home is still far too difficult for too many families in my region. This has major implications for attracting and retaining the key workers and young families we need and for the sustainability of our communities, particularly in the most remote rural and island localities. I am happy to welcome the broad thrust of the Committee’s report, namely that many more houses need to be built in rural Scotland, in both small towns and villages and in the countryside too, as correct. And to achieve that we must see the “cultural change” away from a presumption against development in the countryside which the Committee rightly identifies. It seems that there is also a presumption by Community Councils to be contra instead of pro at the outset regarding planning applications for building- surely it should be the other way round?
We have long put forward the view that planning guidelines in rural areas can be too restrictive and in our 2007 manifesto specifically identified the requirement to service the accommodation needs of retiring farmers which remains an important issue.
As my party’s Spokesman on Housing and Communities, for the last two years I have consistently argued that more priority should be given to the Rural Empty Property Grant (REPG) scheme. I note that the Committee said in its report that the take up of this scheme has been “deeply disappointing” and that the Government needs to learn the lessons from this as it implements the very welcome Rural Homes for Rent scheme and I agree with this. I am aware that the Government is still conducting a review into the Rural Empty Property Grant scheme- along with the Rural Home Owner’s Grant scheme- and I look forward to the results of this review. The scheme has real potential which has sadly not been achieved in large enough numbers. All of us who represent rural constituencies know only too well how many empty, unused or dilapidated farm cottages and steadings there are which can be renovated to provide good quality and affordable homes for rent in our rural communities. I myself recently visited a very impressive steading renovation at Cladich in Argyll which took advantage of the REPG to create five cottages for affordable letting to local people. I am keen to see the scheme publicised more effectively and made as attractive as possible to potential private individuals, farmers, estates and housing trusts. Concerns have also been raised with me about the length of time an application takes and I trust the Government will be considering this and other operational factors in its review of the scheme. At the end of the day landowners and farmers need to be given adequate incentives to bring properties back into a state of repair for renting to locals rather than selling them off. The report is rightly positive about the role that the private sector, including landowners, can play in providing affordable homes and we would urge Ministers to engage fully with the private rented sector in rural areas, and build up relationships which are currently under-utilised. Some good work has been done and we must build on this and expand the examples of best practice.
The provision of land for housing in rural areas has been raised by a number of members today and understandably features to a large extent in the Committee’s report. I agree strongly with the suggestion that the responsibility to free up land for housing should not lie solely with private landowners but with the public sector as well. This point was well made by the chairman of my local Housing Association, Alastair MacGregor of Argyll Community Housing Association who said in his evidence to the Committee that “if central government, the Ministry of Defence, local government and agencies such as the Forestry Commission were brought into the picture and were able to release land from their land banks, that along with our current resources, would assist us dramatically.” I am aware that the Forestry Commission has made some good progress in this direction under the National Forest Land Scheme and the Scottish Conservatives would like to see this extended to all our other public agencies. We take the view that there should be no difference between the public and private sectors in this regard and the public sector should receive the same encouragement as the private sector for considering the appropriateness of land for the development of affordable housing.
Time prevents me from covering some of the other key issues in the report but I was pleased to see the Committee emphasise that the Scottish Government should investigate the widespread concerns that the assumptions behind proposed changes to housing association grant take insufficient note of the extra burdens faced by rural social rented housing providers. In many cases rural housing associations have to develop small projects that do not benefit from the economies of scale that urban housing associations can accrue. I know that many of my constituents would also welcome SEPA serving more effectively as a “facilitator of rural development” rather than a block to sensible rural development as many people have unfortunately found them to be in the past.
Today’s debate has been welcome and we look to Ministers to respond positively and quickly to many of the practical recommendations contained in the report. All of us in this chamber share the same aim: of seeing our rural areas have an adequate supply of good quality, affordable, well insulated and energy efficient homes that can help sustain vibrant and productive rural communities.
Cùrsaichean aig Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle
Tha Ionad Chaluim Chille Ìle air leth toilichte a bhith a’ libhrigeadh An Cùrsa Comais a-rithist. ‘S e cùrsa Àrd-Ìre a th’ ann a tha co-ionnan ris a’ chiad bhliadhna de Cheum, tha e a’ ruith pairt-ùine thar dà bhliadhna le sianar oileanaich. Tha an cùrsa ag amas air do chuid Gàidhlig a leasachadh.
Thòisich a’ chiad sreath de phrògram “A’ Fosgladh Dorsan”, prògram ùr do phàrantan gun Ghàidhlig a tha airson clann a thogail le cuid Gàidhlig san dachaigh. Tha sianar pàrantan le clann a tha a’ dol tro foghlam tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig a’ freastal a’ chùrsa ach tha e cuideachd freagarrach do theaghlaichean nach eil a’ cuir an clann tro foghlam na Gàidhlig. ‘S e cùrsa neo-fhoirmeil a th’ann agus bidh sinn a’ coinneachadh uair san t-seachdain son naoi seachdainean.
ICCI is delighted to be delivering An Cùrsa Comais once again. It is a Certificate of Higher Education course which qualifies as the first year of a degree, it is running part-time over two years with six students. The aim of the course is to improve Gaelic language skills.
The first run of “A’ Fosgladh Dorsan” (Opening Doors), a new programme devised by ICCI and Pobal an Chaistil in Ballycastle for non-Gaelic speaking parents of children in GME, began recently. Six parents of GME children are attending the course but it is also suitable for families who do not attend GME but wish to have a Gaelic input in the home.
It is an informal course that meets once a week for nine weks.
Night classes will be starting at the end of October, please see separate advert for details.
Thòisich a’ chiad sreath de phrògram “A’ Fosgladh Dorsan”, prògram ùr do phàrantan gun Ghàidhlig a tha airson clann a thogail le cuid Gàidhlig san dachaigh. Tha sianar pàrantan le clann a tha a’ dol tro foghlam tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig a’ freastal a’ chùrsa ach tha e cuideachd freagarrach do theaghlaichean nach eil a’ cuir an clann tro foghlam na Gàidhlig. ‘S e cùrsa neo-fhoirmeil a th’ann agus bidh sinn a’ coinneachadh uair san t-seachdain son naoi seachdainean.
ICCI is delighted to be delivering An Cùrsa Comais once again. It is a Certificate of Higher Education course which qualifies as the first year of a degree, it is running part-time over two years with six students. The aim of the course is to improve Gaelic language skills.
The first run of “A’ Fosgladh Dorsan” (Opening Doors), a new programme devised by ICCI and Pobal an Chaistil in Ballycastle for non-Gaelic speaking parents of children in GME, began recently. Six parents of GME children are attending the course but it is also suitable for families who do not attend GME but wish to have a Gaelic input in the home.
It is an informal course that meets once a week for nine weks.
Night classes will be starting at the end of October, please see separate advert for details.
Culture Minister enjoys the creative exchange of Air Iomlaid
Gaelic medium schoolchildren from Edinburgh’s Tollcross Primary School and
Bun-sgoil Shlèite on the Isle of Skye were joined by Culture Minister, Michael
Russell in the heart of the capital for an innovative art project.
The event was part of the Air Iomlaid (On Exchange) initiative, enabling the
pupils to develop their skills in looking at, and responding to, their local
outdoor environments using Gaelic language and visual art. The education
project, led by The Fruitmarket Gallery and artist Julie Brook with a team of
professional artists, has brought the schools together at outdoor locations In
Skye and Edinburgh where they intensively draw and paint their respective
environments.
Earlier in the month the children captured Skye's rural mountain landscape and
last week's visit allowed them to draw and paint Edinburgh's city scape on
Calton Hill, in Princes Street Gardens and on Waverley Bridge.
Culture Minister Michael Russell said of the project:
"The visual arts can play a role in developing individuals and communities and
this project is a fantastic example of just that. I was lucky enough to meet
with the children and see first hand the high quality landscape drawings they
were producing thanks to this strong and positive learning experience.
Linking Gaelic communities throughout Scotland can only boost our drive to
create a new generation of Gaelic speakers, providing more opportunities to
use
Gaelic in daily life, and making new friends at the same time.
Gaelic and its culture are inextricably linked to the landscape so it is great
to see young Gaelic speakers not only learning about their culture and
language,
but also developing new skills thanks to being involved in cultural activity."
The natural history element of the project is being supported by Scottish
Natural Heritage and the organisation’s Gaelic communications officer Shona
Sloan guided the party through the natural history of the area. A highlight of
the visit was the group’s exploration of Calton Hill and Princes Street
Gardens.
Shona Sloan said:
"Despite being in the very centre of a big city heart the kids discovered lots
of colourful wildlife. There is so much natural history to see in Princes
Street
Gardens including some wonderful seasonal features such as the changing
colours
of autumn foliage, the berries and the birdlife. The visit also showed the
youngsters how rich and descriptive the Gaelic language is in its expression
of
nature and wildlife. Especially here in the heart of a busy city like
Edinburgh
where one of the most celebrated natural features - Calton Hill - is a name
derived directly from ‘Calltain’, the Gaelic word for hazel."
This project will culminate in an exhibition in April next year. The
exhibition, which after its run at The Fruitmarket Gallery will travel to
Sabhal
Mòr Ostaig, Scotland’s Gaelic-speaking further education college on the Isle
of Skye, will show the children’s sketch books and working drawings as well
as
large scale artworks in which the landscapes of Skye and Edinburgh are
interpreted from the perspective of both resident and visiting children.
The Fruitmarket Gallery’s Director Fiona Bradley said:
"We are delighted to be helping to develop the art and language skills of
these
young people. The forthcoming exhibition promises to be a real treat - the
fruits of a dynamic exchange of ideas and creativity.
A visual manifestation of a creative exchange, the exhibition is a celebration
of the two school communities, 250 miles apart yet linked by art, technology,
language and ideas."
Bun-sgoil Shlèite on the Isle of Skye were joined by Culture Minister, Michael
Russell in the heart of the capital for an innovative art project.
The event was part of the Air Iomlaid (On Exchange) initiative, enabling the
pupils to develop their skills in looking at, and responding to, their local
outdoor environments using Gaelic language and visual art. The education
project, led by The Fruitmarket Gallery and artist Julie Brook with a team of
professional artists, has brought the schools together at outdoor locations In
Skye and Edinburgh where they intensively draw and paint their respective
environments.
Earlier in the month the children captured Skye's rural mountain landscape and
last week's visit allowed them to draw and paint Edinburgh's city scape on
Calton Hill, in Princes Street Gardens and on Waverley Bridge.
Culture Minister Michael Russell said of the project:
"The visual arts can play a role in developing individuals and communities and
this project is a fantastic example of just that. I was lucky enough to meet
with the children and see first hand the high quality landscape drawings they
were producing thanks to this strong and positive learning experience.
Linking Gaelic communities throughout Scotland can only boost our drive to
create a new generation of Gaelic speakers, providing more opportunities to
use
Gaelic in daily life, and making new friends at the same time.
Gaelic and its culture are inextricably linked to the landscape so it is great
to see young Gaelic speakers not only learning about their culture and
language,
but also developing new skills thanks to being involved in cultural activity."
The natural history element of the project is being supported by Scottish
Natural Heritage and the organisation’s Gaelic communications officer Shona
Sloan guided the party through the natural history of the area. A highlight of
the visit was the group’s exploration of Calton Hill and Princes Street
Gardens.
Shona Sloan said:
"Despite being in the very centre of a big city heart the kids discovered lots
of colourful wildlife. There is so much natural history to see in Princes
Street
Gardens including some wonderful seasonal features such as the changing
colours
of autumn foliage, the berries and the birdlife. The visit also showed the
youngsters how rich and descriptive the Gaelic language is in its expression
of
nature and wildlife. Especially here in the heart of a busy city like
Edinburgh
where one of the most celebrated natural features - Calton Hill - is a name
derived directly from ‘Calltain’, the Gaelic word for hazel."
This project will culminate in an exhibition in April next year. The
exhibition, which after its run at The Fruitmarket Gallery will travel to
Sabhal
Mòr Ostaig, Scotland’s Gaelic-speaking further education college on the Isle
of Skye, will show the children’s sketch books and working drawings as well
as
large scale artworks in which the landscapes of Skye and Edinburgh are
interpreted from the perspective of both resident and visiting children.
The Fruitmarket Gallery’s Director Fiona Bradley said:
"We are delighted to be helping to develop the art and language skills of
these
young people. The forthcoming exhibition promises to be a real treat - the
fruits of a dynamic exchange of ideas and creativity.
A visual manifestation of a creative exchange, the exhibition is a celebration
of the two school communities, 250 miles apart yet linked by art, technology,
language and ideas."
ARGYLL AND BUTE SUCCESSFULLY LOBBIES FOR FAIRER ENERGY TRANSMISSION CHARGES
A senior Argyll and Bute councillor has returned delighted from a conference in Sweden, having persuaded a major European body to support his calls for a fairer renewables transmission charging system.
Councillor Len Scoullar, Argyll and Bute’s Islands and European Affairs spokesperson, won support from the General Assembly of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) in his battle to ensure the Highlands and Islands are not disadvantaged by high power transmission charges.
For several years, the UK energy market regulator, Ofgem, has been accused of maintaining a system which unfairly penalises anyone seeking to generate and export wind, wave and tidal power in the Highlands and Islands.
The current rules force generators in remote areas far from population centres to pay more to transmit their power than gas, coal or nuclear plants near cities have to pay to transmit the power they generate.
However, Councillor Scoullar has now ensured that the full weight of the CPMR is behind his campaign to secure a change in the charging system.
“Argyll and Bute, along with the rest of the Highlands and Islands, has the best resources for the generation of renewable power in the United Kingdom,” Councillor Scoullar said.
“However, up until now, anyone wanting to transmit clean, green, renewable energy from this area has been penalised, despite the locations being dictated by our geography, weather and tidal conditions.
“The fact that renewable generators in this area are facing the highest charges in the UK potentially has a significant impact on the development of renewables projects in the Highlands and Islands. Power generators are obviously going to be reluctant to provide sub-sea interlinks, for instance, if they are not economically viable because of the unfairly high cost of using them.”
The European Commission’s renewables directive explicitly states that transmission charges should not discriminate against electricity from renewable energy sources – and in particular sources produced in peripheral regions such as islands, and in regions of low population density.
Councillor Scoullar said: “The current system in the United Kingdom is patently violating this directive, the potential consequences of which are a loss of inward investment and employment in some of Scotland’s most peripheral regions.
“Argyll and Bute is fast becoming the powerhouse not just of Scotland but of the UK in terms of renewable energy, and I am delighted to have secured the support of the CPMR in the battle to address this unacceptable situation.
“This Council has lobbied on this issue for more than two years including, of course, making strong representations to Ofgem.
“The powers that be are going to have to recognise – hopefully sooner rather than later – that this is an unjust situation which cannot be allowed to continue.”
Councillor Len Scoullar, Argyll and Bute’s Islands and European Affairs spokesperson, won support from the General Assembly of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) in his battle to ensure the Highlands and Islands are not disadvantaged by high power transmission charges.
For several years, the UK energy market regulator, Ofgem, has been accused of maintaining a system which unfairly penalises anyone seeking to generate and export wind, wave and tidal power in the Highlands and Islands.
The current rules force generators in remote areas far from population centres to pay more to transmit their power than gas, coal or nuclear plants near cities have to pay to transmit the power they generate.
However, Councillor Scoullar has now ensured that the full weight of the CPMR is behind his campaign to secure a change in the charging system.
“Argyll and Bute, along with the rest of the Highlands and Islands, has the best resources for the generation of renewable power in the United Kingdom,” Councillor Scoullar said.
“However, up until now, anyone wanting to transmit clean, green, renewable energy from this area has been penalised, despite the locations being dictated by our geography, weather and tidal conditions.
“The fact that renewable generators in this area are facing the highest charges in the UK potentially has a significant impact on the development of renewables projects in the Highlands and Islands. Power generators are obviously going to be reluctant to provide sub-sea interlinks, for instance, if they are not economically viable because of the unfairly high cost of using them.”
The European Commission’s renewables directive explicitly states that transmission charges should not discriminate against electricity from renewable energy sources – and in particular sources produced in peripheral regions such as islands, and in regions of low population density.
Councillor Scoullar said: “The current system in the United Kingdom is patently violating this directive, the potential consequences of which are a loss of inward investment and employment in some of Scotland’s most peripheral regions.
“Argyll and Bute is fast becoming the powerhouse not just of Scotland but of the UK in terms of renewable energy, and I am delighted to have secured the support of the CPMR in the battle to address this unacceptable situation.
“This Council has lobbied on this issue for more than two years including, of course, making strong representations to Ofgem.
“The powers that be are going to have to recognise – hopefully sooner rather than later – that this is an unjust situation which cannot be allowed to continue.”
ARGYLL AND BUTE LAUNCHES PRE-SCHOOL GAELIC DVD
Argyll and Bute Council is about to launch a new Gaelic DVD for pre-school learners.
‘Cabag’, which features a puppet and presenters engaging in Gaelic songs, games, rhymes and stories, was funded by Bòrd na Gàidhlig through Argyll and Bute’s Gaelic Language Act Implementation Fund.
One thousand copies of the free DVD will be distributed, and will be sent not just to Gaelic medium pre-school facilities in Argyll and Bute, but across Scotland.
The DVDs will be accompanied by little glove puppets of Cabag which children can have at home.
Councillor Isobel Strong, Argyll and Bute’s Education and Lifelong Learning spokesperson, said it was just the latest step in the Council’s commitment to Gaelic medium education.
“I’m delighted that we have produced this fun, engaging resource for the youngsters in our Gaelic medium pre-school facilities,” she added.
“Argyll and Bute has offered Gaelic medium education to young people for more than 20 years, and we have significantly expanded our provision within that time.
“Our pre-school facilities are a vital element in the success of our Gaelic education programme, as exposure to the language at a very early age makes it much easier for children to achieve fluency and competency in both Gaelic and English by the end of primary school.
“I am sure that this DVD will be a fantastic addition to the resources available, not just for pre school children in Argyll and Bute, but across Scotland.”
On Monday (October 12), the Council has organised a 30 minute puppet show featuring Cabag at Atlantis Leisure in Oban at 1pm.
The two presenters on the DVD are Linda MacLeod and Derek MacIntosh, and Mairi Morrison is the puppeteer and voice of Cabag.
The DVD was compiled by Benderloch-based Mor Media and Sealladh TV, based in Skye.
‘Cabag’, which features a puppet and presenters engaging in Gaelic songs, games, rhymes and stories, was funded by Bòrd na Gàidhlig through Argyll and Bute’s Gaelic Language Act Implementation Fund.
One thousand copies of the free DVD will be distributed, and will be sent not just to Gaelic medium pre-school facilities in Argyll and Bute, but across Scotland.
The DVDs will be accompanied by little glove puppets of Cabag which children can have at home.
Councillor Isobel Strong, Argyll and Bute’s Education and Lifelong Learning spokesperson, said it was just the latest step in the Council’s commitment to Gaelic medium education.
“I’m delighted that we have produced this fun, engaging resource for the youngsters in our Gaelic medium pre-school facilities,” she added.
“Argyll and Bute has offered Gaelic medium education to young people for more than 20 years, and we have significantly expanded our provision within that time.
“Our pre-school facilities are a vital element in the success of our Gaelic education programme, as exposure to the language at a very early age makes it much easier for children to achieve fluency and competency in both Gaelic and English by the end of primary school.
“I am sure that this DVD will be a fantastic addition to the resources available, not just for pre school children in Argyll and Bute, but across Scotland.”
On Monday (October 12), the Council has organised a 30 minute puppet show featuring Cabag at Atlantis Leisure in Oban at 1pm.
The two presenters on the DVD are Linda MacLeod and Derek MacIntosh, and Mairi Morrison is the puppeteer and voice of Cabag.
The DVD was compiled by Benderloch-based Mor Media and Sealladh TV, based in Skye.
LICENSED PREMISES FAIL TOBACCO TEST
During August 2009, Argyll and Bute's Trading Standards service conducted a survey using a volunteer 16 year old test purchaser to buy cigarettes from vending machines.
The legal age for buying tobacco is 18.
The survey was carried out in response to the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Bill now progressing through the Scottish Parliament, which proposes the banning of cigarette vending machines.
During the survey, 24 licensed premises were visited across Argyll and Bute. Despite the increase from 16 to 18 years of age for the sale of cigarettes in 2007 the results were alarming, with sales of cigarettes being made at 23 of the 24 premises.
Councillor Daniel Kelly, Chair of Argyll and Bute Council’s Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee, said: “It is important that retailers act upon this survey. It is against the law to sell cigarettes to people under 18 years of age, and licensees have the same responsibility as other retailers when it comes to refusing sales and obeying the law.
“It is vital to ensure that access to tobacco products is restricted and that staff are fully trained to challenge young people for proof of age.
“We recognise that this is not always straightforward, and to help retailers we have followed up the test purchasing exercise with advice visits to support businesses comply with the law.
“The onus is on them to place vending machines where staff can see them, and to train their staff to be on the lookout for youngsters trying to use them. Traders who persistently break the law will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal."
All of the premises revisited have demonstrated a desire to comply with legal requirements placed upon them in relation to the selling of tobacco and tobacco products.
Whilst accepting that vending machines cannot be monitored 100% of the time, the premises have promised to take measures to avoid making prohibited sales in the future including:
· Removal of the machine from the premises.
· Repositioning of the machines.
· Increasing staff awareness.
· Converting the machines to remote control operation.
Of particular interest is the innovation of converting vending machines into remote control units. This ensures that the person attempting to purchase cigarettes has to speak to a member of staff who can then assess their age before authorising the sale.
In addition to the proposed measures, each of the premises will be given formal notification of their obligations not to sell tobacco or tobacco papers to people under the age of 18. Furthermore, the premises have been notified that another survey will be conducted in the near future.
The legal age for buying tobacco is 18.
The survey was carried out in response to the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Bill now progressing through the Scottish Parliament, which proposes the banning of cigarette vending machines.
During the survey, 24 licensed premises were visited across Argyll and Bute. Despite the increase from 16 to 18 years of age for the sale of cigarettes in 2007 the results were alarming, with sales of cigarettes being made at 23 of the 24 premises.
Councillor Daniel Kelly, Chair of Argyll and Bute Council’s Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee, said: “It is important that retailers act upon this survey. It is against the law to sell cigarettes to people under 18 years of age, and licensees have the same responsibility as other retailers when it comes to refusing sales and obeying the law.
“It is vital to ensure that access to tobacco products is restricted and that staff are fully trained to challenge young people for proof of age.
“We recognise that this is not always straightforward, and to help retailers we have followed up the test purchasing exercise with advice visits to support businesses comply with the law.
“The onus is on them to place vending machines where staff can see them, and to train their staff to be on the lookout for youngsters trying to use them. Traders who persistently break the law will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal."
All of the premises revisited have demonstrated a desire to comply with legal requirements placed upon them in relation to the selling of tobacco and tobacco products.
Whilst accepting that vending machines cannot be monitored 100% of the time, the premises have promised to take measures to avoid making prohibited sales in the future including:
· Removal of the machine from the premises.
· Repositioning of the machines.
· Increasing staff awareness.
· Converting the machines to remote control operation.
Of particular interest is the innovation of converting vending machines into remote control units. This ensures that the person attempting to purchase cigarettes has to speak to a member of staff who can then assess their age before authorising the sale.
In addition to the proposed measures, each of the premises will be given formal notification of their obligations not to sell tobacco or tobacco papers to people under the age of 18. Furthermore, the premises have been notified that another survey will be conducted in the near future.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Week: 43
Date: Saturday, 24 October – Friday, 30 October 2009
Title: Blas 2009 Music Festival
A selection of songs and tunes from Blas 09's 'Family Ties' concert, featuring Seonaidh & Calum Alex MacMillan, Duncan and Iain MacGillivray, Dagger & Neil Gordon, and Gerry & Donal O' Connor.
Transmitted: Saturday 24th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh/Compelling Stories: Marag
The campaign to protect the Stornoway Black Pudding from imitation. Chefs, butchers, and food enthusiasts speak out for the Marag Dhubh to be given special protection status by the EU.
Transmitted: Monday 26th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Ian Brady
Compelling drama documentary telling the story of notorious 'moors murderer' Ian Brady.
Transmitted: Wednesday 28th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Scotland V Georgia: Women’s World Cup Qualifier
Full coverage of the Women's World Cup Qualifier - Scotland V Georgia.
Transmitted: Thursday 29th October 2009
Time: 19:25
Title: Coltas an t-Satain / History of the Devil
A history of how the devil is perceived through the ages.
Transmitted: Saturday 31st October 2009
Time: 00:30
Date: Saturday, 24 October – Friday, 30 October 2009
Title: Blas 2009 Music Festival
A selection of songs and tunes from Blas 09's 'Family Ties' concert, featuring Seonaidh & Calum Alex MacMillan, Duncan and Iain MacGillivray, Dagger & Neil Gordon, and Gerry & Donal O' Connor.
Transmitted: Saturday 24th October 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh/Compelling Stories: Marag
The campaign to protect the Stornoway Black Pudding from imitation. Chefs, butchers, and food enthusiasts speak out for the Marag Dhubh to be given special protection status by the EU.
Transmitted: Monday 26th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Ian Brady
Compelling drama documentary telling the story of notorious 'moors murderer' Ian Brady.
Transmitted: Wednesday 28th October 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Scotland V Georgia: Women’s World Cup Qualifier
Full coverage of the Women's World Cup Qualifier - Scotland V Georgia.
Transmitted: Thursday 29th October 2009
Time: 19:25
Title: Coltas an t-Satain / History of the Devil
A history of how the devil is perceived through the ages.
Transmitted: Saturday 31st October 2009
Time: 00:30
Thursday, 8 October 2009
BBC ALBA EXPLORES WHAT IT’S LIKE BEING PART OF A 21ST CENTURY CLAN
21st Century Clans - Monday 19 October at 9pm on BBC ALBA
It was hailed as the world’s largest international clan get-together when it was held in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh in July as part of the Year of Homecoming.
‘The Gathering’ threw the spotlight firmly onto the Scottish clan system, which was left in tatters after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Now a new BBC ALBA documentary addresses what it means to be part of a clan today. Are clans in 2009 just part of a shortbread tin image of Scotland with little relevance to most people or are they a deeper part of our culture?
21st Century Clans sees presenter Cara Fraser and BBC music show ‘Rapal’ presenter Niall Iain MacDonald travel to The Gathering and throughout Scotland on a quest to find out what attracts people to become part of a clan.
For Lord Godfrey MacDonald, High Chief of Clan Donald, unifying events like The Gathering are imperative to clanship. He says: “That is what it means today, people getting in touch with their roots. There is no other group of people around the world that has a clan system. It is absolutely unique.”
It’s not only in Scotland and countries of traditional Scots emigration where there is interest in clans. For German hotelier Albrecht Kurbjuhn, who formed the Clan MacLeod Society of Germany, lacking family ties to Scotland wasn’t an obstacle.
A holiday in Scotland gave Albrecht the idea of joining a clan. He says: “I wanted to latch onto a part of Scottish mysticism and legend which fascinates many people in Germany.” He chose Clan MacLeod because the clan’s colours and symbols closely resembled the flag of Mecklenburg, his region of Germany.
“The constitution of Clan MacLeod states that members may be friends of the MacLeods. As Chief John MacLeod of MacLeod said when we visited Dunvegan Castle in 2000: ‘We have traditionally been open not only for blood relatives but for people who want to identify with our clan.’”
Visitor to The Gathering Brigadier John Macfarlane, from Argyll, agrees that clans need not be just for those who share a surname: “That’s always been the way in the Highlands. Some were real MacDonalds but others were splinter groups. They might not have had a clan or maybe they just did something for the clan chief. Does it matter? If someone’s happy to be a MacDonald, then that’s fine.”
Tom Hye, European convener of Clan Hay and creator of the Clan Hay Pipe Band in Belgium, says for him the reason for joining a clan is simple, the clan system opens doors. He smiles: “It’s a large family but with one difference, worldwide you have friends. Most families don’t have that.”
21st Century Clans was produced by Mactv and directed by David Martin. The documentary will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Monday 19 October at 9pm.
It was hailed as the world’s largest international clan get-together when it was held in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh in July as part of the Year of Homecoming.
‘The Gathering’ threw the spotlight firmly onto the Scottish clan system, which was left in tatters after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Now a new BBC ALBA documentary addresses what it means to be part of a clan today. Are clans in 2009 just part of a shortbread tin image of Scotland with little relevance to most people or are they a deeper part of our culture?
21st Century Clans sees presenter Cara Fraser and BBC music show ‘Rapal’ presenter Niall Iain MacDonald travel to The Gathering and throughout Scotland on a quest to find out what attracts people to become part of a clan.
For Lord Godfrey MacDonald, High Chief of Clan Donald, unifying events like The Gathering are imperative to clanship. He says: “That is what it means today, people getting in touch with their roots. There is no other group of people around the world that has a clan system. It is absolutely unique.”
It’s not only in Scotland and countries of traditional Scots emigration where there is interest in clans. For German hotelier Albrecht Kurbjuhn, who formed the Clan MacLeod Society of Germany, lacking family ties to Scotland wasn’t an obstacle.
A holiday in Scotland gave Albrecht the idea of joining a clan. He says: “I wanted to latch onto a part of Scottish mysticism and legend which fascinates many people in Germany.” He chose Clan MacLeod because the clan’s colours and symbols closely resembled the flag of Mecklenburg, his region of Germany.
“The constitution of Clan MacLeod states that members may be friends of the MacLeods. As Chief John MacLeod of MacLeod said when we visited Dunvegan Castle in 2000: ‘We have traditionally been open not only for blood relatives but for people who want to identify with our clan.’”
Visitor to The Gathering Brigadier John Macfarlane, from Argyll, agrees that clans need not be just for those who share a surname: “That’s always been the way in the Highlands. Some were real MacDonalds but others were splinter groups. They might not have had a clan or maybe they just did something for the clan chief. Does it matter? If someone’s happy to be a MacDonald, then that’s fine.”
Tom Hye, European convener of Clan Hay and creator of the Clan Hay Pipe Band in Belgium, says for him the reason for joining a clan is simple, the clan system opens doors. He smiles: “It’s a large family but with one difference, worldwide you have friends. Most families don’t have that.”
21st Century Clans was produced by Mactv and directed by David Martin. The documentary will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Monday 19 October at 9pm.
Tuesday, 6 October 2009
Hands up for Trad
Hands up for Trad and their panel of industry judges are once again on the lookout for the very best in traditional music for this year’s MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, a highlight of the Homecoming Scotland finale celebrations. The 2009 Awards Ceremony and Gala Concert will be held at DG One in Dumfries on Saturday 28th November as part of a big weekend celebration of Scots traditional music in Dumfries.
The nominations process for the 2009 Awards opens runs until 16th October. For further information and to see the sixteen categories open for your nomination visit www.handsupfortrad.co.uk/tradmusicawards.
Categories include Album of the year, Live Act of the Year, best venue, and two new awards Trad Music in the Media (sponsored by Hegri Music) and Music Tutor of the Year (sponsored by Scottish Arts Council’s Youth Music Initiative). Nominations will be shortlisted by the panel made up of our partners from record labels to event organisers and other industry representatives. From November 2nd, the vote goes back to the public who have the final say on who will sweep up at this year’s award ceremony.
Artists confirmed to perform at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards and Gala Concert include The Treacherous Orchestra, Skippinish, Ross Ainslie and Jarlath Henderson, Barbara Dickson, The Scottish Power Pipe Band and Deaf Shepherd. Tickets can be purchased for the awards and for the MG ALBA festival club, (open Saturday til 3am) The weekend’s full line up of celebrations include Take The Floor with Robbie Shepherd on Friday 27th November and Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame Legends concert with tributes to The Corries, Hamish Imlach, Gordon Duncan, Martyn Bennett, Calum Kennedy and many more. There will also be a programme of outdoor concerts from top traditional music bands in Dumfries town centre as well as workshop sessions on Saturday and Sunday.
Simon Thoumire, Director of Hands up For Trad said “This is a great opportunity for the public to get involved and nominate their favourite acts, venues, and organisations of 2009”
Donald Campbell, Chief Executive MG ALBA said ‘The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards are recognised as the premier awards for Traditional Music in Scotland and MG ALBA is delighted to again be involved in supporting the awards this year. We hope that as many people as possible will participate in the nominations process. After the success of the event at the Fruitmarket in Glasgow last year we look forward to seeing the awards take place in Dumfries helping to celebrate Scotland’s Year of Homecoming.’
Marie Christie, Homecoming Scotland Project Director, said: “We are delighted the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards is part of the national Homecoming celebrations. Dumfries played a key role in the launch of the Homecoming year and Scottish traditional music has provided the soundtrack for many of this year’s Homecoming celebrations. The Homecoming Finale Celebrations take place across Scotland from 26th – 30th November and Dumfries is again set to play a key role with this fantastic showcase and celebration of the very best of traditional Scottish music”.
Make your nominations at www.handsupfortrad.co.uk/tradmusicawards/ where you can find details on all the categories and criteria for each award
Tickets for all events are available from DG One box office | 01387 243 550
And from www.ticketweb.co.uk
The nominations process for the 2009 Awards opens runs until 16th October. For further information and to see the sixteen categories open for your nomination visit www.handsupfortrad.co.uk/tradmusicawards.
Categories include Album of the year, Live Act of the Year, best venue, and two new awards Trad Music in the Media (sponsored by Hegri Music) and Music Tutor of the Year (sponsored by Scottish Arts Council’s Youth Music Initiative). Nominations will be shortlisted by the panel made up of our partners from record labels to event organisers and other industry representatives. From November 2nd, the vote goes back to the public who have the final say on who will sweep up at this year’s award ceremony.
Artists confirmed to perform at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards and Gala Concert include The Treacherous Orchestra, Skippinish, Ross Ainslie and Jarlath Henderson, Barbara Dickson, The Scottish Power Pipe Band and Deaf Shepherd. Tickets can be purchased for the awards and for the MG ALBA festival club, (open Saturday til 3am) The weekend’s full line up of celebrations include Take The Floor with Robbie Shepherd on Friday 27th November and Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame Legends concert with tributes to The Corries, Hamish Imlach, Gordon Duncan, Martyn Bennett, Calum Kennedy and many more. There will also be a programme of outdoor concerts from top traditional music bands in Dumfries town centre as well as workshop sessions on Saturday and Sunday.
Simon Thoumire, Director of Hands up For Trad said “This is a great opportunity for the public to get involved and nominate their favourite acts, venues, and organisations of 2009”
Donald Campbell, Chief Executive MG ALBA said ‘The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards are recognised as the premier awards for Traditional Music in Scotland and MG ALBA is delighted to again be involved in supporting the awards this year. We hope that as many people as possible will participate in the nominations process. After the success of the event at the Fruitmarket in Glasgow last year we look forward to seeing the awards take place in Dumfries helping to celebrate Scotland’s Year of Homecoming.’
Marie Christie, Homecoming Scotland Project Director, said: “We are delighted the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards is part of the national Homecoming celebrations. Dumfries played a key role in the launch of the Homecoming year and Scottish traditional music has provided the soundtrack for many of this year’s Homecoming celebrations. The Homecoming Finale Celebrations take place across Scotland from 26th – 30th November and Dumfries is again set to play a key role with this fantastic showcase and celebration of the very best of traditional Scottish music”.
Make your nominations at www.handsupfortrad.co.uk/tradmusicawards/ where you can find details on all the categories and criteria for each award
Tickets for all events are available from DG One box office | 01387 243 550
And from www.ticketweb.co.uk
Ardbeg Malt Awarded Best Scotch Whisky of Year
--- Author of Whisky Bible 2010 describes Ardbeg Supernova as a “major beast” ---
--- Interviews available with Jim Murray, Bill Lumsden and Glenmorangie Company Ardbeg expert Hamish Torrie. Press pics of Ardbeg distillery and product pics available via email. Call Hailey Ross on 07770 886906 ---
Ardbeg Supernova – a single malt whisky from the Ardbeg Distillery on the remote Island of Islay – has been named Best Scotch Whisky of the Year, the third year running an Ardbeg single malt has been awarded such a prestigious accolade.
This follows the success of the Distillery’s flagship expression Ardbeg Ten Years Old, and Ardbeg Uigeadail, which were named World Whisky of the Year in 2008 and 2009, respectively.
The award for Ardbeg Supernova comes with the publication of the seventh annual edition of whisky authority and writer Jim Murray’s, “Whisky Bible”. A favourite with whisky aficionados, barmen and connoisseurs around the world Jim Murray has nosed and tasted nearly 1,000 new whiskies over the past year. The Jim Murray “Whisky Bible 2010” contains more than 3,850 whisky tasting notes in all. Ardbeg Supernova received 97 points out of 100. Murray described the dram as being “moody, atmospheric” and a “major beast”.
Bottled at 58.9 per cent, Ardbeg Supernova is a single malt Scotch whisky with a staggering peating level well in excess of 100 parts per million, making it the peatiest Ardbeg ever.
Hamish Torrie, Ardbeg Brand Director says: “With Ardbeg Supernova you have nothing less than a “galactic explosion” of flavours, with salt and pepper, roasted coffee, chilli and chocolate all contributing. Jim’s accolade of identifying Supernova as the best Scotch Whisky delights all of us who work on Ardbeg.
“It is a tribute to the consistency, dedication and skill of the team at the Distillery, and our Whisky Creation Team, led by Dr Bill Lumsden and Rachel Barrie.”
He continued: “Ardbeg Supernova was a limited edition in 2009. It probably means we’ll have to consider releasing some more in 2010.”
--- Interviews available with Jim Murray, Bill Lumsden and Glenmorangie Company Ardbeg expert Hamish Torrie. Press pics of Ardbeg distillery and product pics available via email. Call Hailey Ross on 07770 886906 ---
Ardbeg Supernova – a single malt whisky from the Ardbeg Distillery on the remote Island of Islay – has been named Best Scotch Whisky of the Year, the third year running an Ardbeg single malt has been awarded such a prestigious accolade.
This follows the success of the Distillery’s flagship expression Ardbeg Ten Years Old, and Ardbeg Uigeadail, which were named World Whisky of the Year in 2008 and 2009, respectively.
The award for Ardbeg Supernova comes with the publication of the seventh annual edition of whisky authority and writer Jim Murray’s, “Whisky Bible”. A favourite with whisky aficionados, barmen and connoisseurs around the world Jim Murray has nosed and tasted nearly 1,000 new whiskies over the past year. The Jim Murray “Whisky Bible 2010” contains more than 3,850 whisky tasting notes in all. Ardbeg Supernova received 97 points out of 100. Murray described the dram as being “moody, atmospheric” and a “major beast”.
Bottled at 58.9 per cent, Ardbeg Supernova is a single malt Scotch whisky with a staggering peating level well in excess of 100 parts per million, making it the peatiest Ardbeg ever.
Hamish Torrie, Ardbeg Brand Director says: “With Ardbeg Supernova you have nothing less than a “galactic explosion” of flavours, with salt and pepper, roasted coffee, chilli and chocolate all contributing. Jim’s accolade of identifying Supernova as the best Scotch Whisky delights all of us who work on Ardbeg.
“It is a tribute to the consistency, dedication and skill of the team at the Distillery, and our Whisky Creation Team, led by Dr Bill Lumsden and Rachel Barrie.”
He continued: “Ardbeg Supernova was a limited edition in 2009. It probably means we’ll have to consider releasing some more in 2010.”
Monday, 5 October 2009
BBC ALBA TUNES IN FOR LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC
UK country music fans will be able to tune in for live performances from acclaimed national and international country music artists in a new television series, Ceòl Country to be broadcast this month on BBC ALBA.
Ceòl Country is a six-part series produced by mneTV to showcase the best music from this year’s Caithness Country Music and Creetown Country Music festivals, and will hit our screens from Tuesday 20 October.
Both festivals have a dedicated support thanks to the range of worldwide country music stars that come to perform and now for the first time, BBC ALBA will show the finest acts in a premier country music series.
The opening show comes from the sixth annual Northern Nashville Country Music Festival in Caithness, the highlight of which is a live set from Canadian star Michelle Wright. Born and raised in Ontario before relocating to Nashville, Tennessee, Wright has enjoyed more than 25 hit singles in Canada including No. 1's ‘Take It LikeAMan’ & ‘One Time Around’ and has achieved in excess of two million album sales.
Also joining Michelle is award-winning artist Robert Mizzell, fresh from promoting his recent DVD 'The Louisiana Man', and eclectic Northern Irish songwriter Eamon McCann, who is affectionately known as ‘Ireland's Voice of Country’ and has steadily moved from a popular national musician to enjoy international acclaim.
In the week that 2010 festival tickets have gone on sale, The Northern Nashville Country Music Club have also announced their exciting line-up which includes headline acts from the States, Rick Trevino, Leona Williams and Amber Digby.
Christine Gray, Chairperson of the Northern Nashville Country Music Club said: “Our festival at Caithness has grown more popular year by year so we are delighted that the support of BBC ALBA allows us to reach a whole new audience. This year’s festival has had the best line-up to date and we are happy that BBC ALBA viewers will be able to share the delights of world-class country music with us”.
Alan Esslemont, head of content for BBC ALBA, said: “We are delighted to be working together with mneTV and the festival organisers to showcase country music through coverage of this exciting festival. BBC ALBA has shown a firm commitment to providing events-based music coverage through a range of diverse and popular programmes and Ceòl Country gives a taste of live country music events available across Scotland.”
Among the range of artists that will feature on upcoming BBC ALBA shows include international artists Mike Bella, Heather Myles and Fiddler Adam, and UK acts including Buchanan, Lazy Dog and Root’n Toot’n, as well as popular Highland bands The Jacks and Slange Ava.
Ceòl Country will commence on Tuesday 20 October at 9pm with weekly hour long programmes being broadcast every Tuesday over the next six weeks, with repeats the following Sunday evening at 9pm.
Ceòl Country is a six-part series produced by mneTV to showcase the best music from this year’s Caithness Country Music and Creetown Country Music festivals, and will hit our screens from Tuesday 20 October.
Both festivals have a dedicated support thanks to the range of worldwide country music stars that come to perform and now for the first time, BBC ALBA will show the finest acts in a premier country music series.
The opening show comes from the sixth annual Northern Nashville Country Music Festival in Caithness, the highlight of which is a live set from Canadian star Michelle Wright. Born and raised in Ontario before relocating to Nashville, Tennessee, Wright has enjoyed more than 25 hit singles in Canada including No. 1's ‘Take It LikeAMan’ & ‘One Time Around’ and has achieved in excess of two million album sales.
Also joining Michelle is award-winning artist Robert Mizzell, fresh from promoting his recent DVD 'The Louisiana Man', and eclectic Northern Irish songwriter Eamon McCann, who is affectionately known as ‘Ireland's Voice of Country’ and has steadily moved from a popular national musician to enjoy international acclaim.
In the week that 2010 festival tickets have gone on sale, The Northern Nashville Country Music Club have also announced their exciting line-up which includes headline acts from the States, Rick Trevino, Leona Williams and Amber Digby.
Christine Gray, Chairperson of the Northern Nashville Country Music Club said: “Our festival at Caithness has grown more popular year by year so we are delighted that the support of BBC ALBA allows us to reach a whole new audience. This year’s festival has had the best line-up to date and we are happy that BBC ALBA viewers will be able to share the delights of world-class country music with us”.
Alan Esslemont, head of content for BBC ALBA, said: “We are delighted to be working together with mneTV and the festival organisers to showcase country music through coverage of this exciting festival. BBC ALBA has shown a firm commitment to providing events-based music coverage through a range of diverse and popular programmes and Ceòl Country gives a taste of live country music events available across Scotland.”
Among the range of artists that will feature on upcoming BBC ALBA shows include international artists Mike Bella, Heather Myles and Fiddler Adam, and UK acts including Buchanan, Lazy Dog and Root’n Toot’n, as well as popular Highland bands The Jacks and Slange Ava.
Ceòl Country will commence on Tuesday 20 October at 9pm with weekly hour long programmes being broadcast every Tuesday over the next six weeks, with repeats the following Sunday evening at 9pm.
HIDDEN TREASURES OF SCOTLAND’S SEAS TO BE EXPLORED
Some of the secrets and mysteries surrounding Scotland’s rich marine heritage could soon be revealed.
The Scottish Marine Bill aims to improve the protection of Scotland’s treasured marine heritage and our understanding and enjoyment of it.
It’s hoped technological advances and opportunities for closer cooperation on survey and data collection will help locate undiscovered marine heritage sites such as historic shipwrecks.
And under the Bill, a new Historic Marine Protected Area provision will allow a broader range of historic assets to be protected in a proportionate manner. Levels of protection will be targeted according to the needs of each asset.
Speaking at Holyrood’s Marine Bill Conference in Edinburgh today, Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said:
“The Scottish Marine Bill offers the exciting opportunity to make even more of our historic and cultural heritage – which we ignore at our peril.
“The popularity of shipwreck diving in Orkney and the Sound of Mull means Scotland can already lay claim to the title of ‘shipwreck diving capital of Europe’.
“Diving generates millions of pounds for our economy. And thanks to these new measures there is scope to open up a whole new world of hidden treasures for divers.
“We are delivering a Bill that will make the most of Scotland’s unique coastal and marine environment without spoiling our most prized treasures.”
Philip Robertson, Historic Scotland’s marine archaeology expert, said:
“There are thousands of shipwrecks around the coast of Scotland. We also have archaeological sites in areas such as Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles that we think are now underwater due to relative sea-level rise after the last Ice Age. We still have a lot to learn but the signs are that our marine heritage is immensely rich and varied, reflecting Scotland’s historic relationship with the sea.
“The Scottish Marine Bill will help encourage responsible access to our underwater heritage and the introduction of Marine Conservation Orders will allow us to better protect those sites that need greater attention. For years we have worked closely with the diving community to monitor and protect wrecks and this Bill will make it easier for those diving to get access on a ‘look but don’t touch’ basis.
“And for those of us who do not dive, new survey and visualisation technology is offering us all a fascinating glimpse of what lies beneath the waves.”
The Scottish Marine Bill aims to improve the protection of Scotland’s treasured marine heritage and our understanding and enjoyment of it.
It’s hoped technological advances and opportunities for closer cooperation on survey and data collection will help locate undiscovered marine heritage sites such as historic shipwrecks.
And under the Bill, a new Historic Marine Protected Area provision will allow a broader range of historic assets to be protected in a proportionate manner. Levels of protection will be targeted according to the needs of each asset.
Speaking at Holyrood’s Marine Bill Conference in Edinburgh today, Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said:
“The Scottish Marine Bill offers the exciting opportunity to make even more of our historic and cultural heritage – which we ignore at our peril.
“The popularity of shipwreck diving in Orkney and the Sound of Mull means Scotland can already lay claim to the title of ‘shipwreck diving capital of Europe’.
“Diving generates millions of pounds for our economy. And thanks to these new measures there is scope to open up a whole new world of hidden treasures for divers.
“We are delivering a Bill that will make the most of Scotland’s unique coastal and marine environment without spoiling our most prized treasures.”
Philip Robertson, Historic Scotland’s marine archaeology expert, said:
“There are thousands of shipwrecks around the coast of Scotland. We also have archaeological sites in areas such as Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles that we think are now underwater due to relative sea-level rise after the last Ice Age. We still have a lot to learn but the signs are that our marine heritage is immensely rich and varied, reflecting Scotland’s historic relationship with the sea.
“The Scottish Marine Bill will help encourage responsible access to our underwater heritage and the introduction of Marine Conservation Orders will allow us to better protect those sites that need greater attention. For years we have worked closely with the diving community to monitor and protect wrecks and this Bill will make it easier for those diving to get access on a ‘look but don’t touch’ basis.
“And for those of us who do not dive, new survey and visualisation technology is offering us all a fascinating glimpse of what lies beneath the waves.”
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