Jim Mather Argyll & Bute MSP, has described the creation of a
leaflet by Planning Aid for Scotland as very important in raising an
awareness that the organisation is there to give independent, impartial
advice and information to constituents on many aspects of the planning
system. Planning Aid for Scotland helps modernise the planning system
and gives guidance to those who wish to become involved in shaping their
own places and futures. The organisation now has a record number of 230
professional planning volunteers. Planning Aid for Scotland telephone
service is available free of charge to individuals and organisations
throughout Scotland.
Jim Mather said:
"I welcome the publication of this leaflet which provides
information on the advice Planning Aid for Scotland has to offer not
only helping individuals with planning difficulties but giving guidance
to creating meaningful community consultation.
Anyone currently considering lodging a planning application may
find it useful to talk to Planning Aid for Scotland to see what steps
can be taken to improve their planning application's chances of being
successful.
Planning Aid for Scotland can be contacted by telephoning 0131
220 9735. Alternatively their website is available at
www.planningaidScotland.org.uk."
Thursday 15 October 2009
MG ALBA STEPS UP SEARCH FOR ENTERTAINMENT TALENT
Following the success of FilmG winning short, Siubhlachan (The Traveller) on the international stage, MG ALBA are delighted to announce that a new Development Fund of £10k will be set up to allow the winners of the FilmG 2009 Entertainment and Best Director categories to try to emulate that success.
Since the FilmG 2008 awards ceremony Siubhlachan has screened at film festivals in Switzerland, South Korea and Canada. Director Ùisdean Murray has developed a 30 minute pilot episode for the Gaelic Channel, BBC ALBA.
Uisdean Murray with Carole Sheridan, Head of Talent at Scottish Screen and actor David Walker
5 weeks to go!
With the closing date on the 20 November, there are still five weeks left to make a 3-5 minute Gaelic short for the competition. FilmG is open to anyone aged 18 or over and has a separate category for 12-17 year olds. For full competition details and to view last year’s films for inspiration, visit the website www.filmg.co.uk
Entertainment
This year a special prize of £2,500 will be awarded for Best Entertainment short. This could be music, sport, a quiz show, chat show, a live performance or even a stand-up act. This category offers a great opportunity to win a cash prize and access to the £10K Development Fund. The prize winner could see their short film developed for screening locally, nationally and internationally.
Prizes
The cash prizes for FilmG include £3000 for best drama/comedy short and £3,000 for best factual short. There are also cash prizes for the best interpretation of the competition theme, Gaisgeach (hero, champion or warrior) as well as prizes for best performance, best presenter, best director and most creative production. A full list of prizes can be viewed on the FilmG website. Winners of the Best Director categories will also be offered access to the £10k Development Fund.
The FilmG team would like to hear from anyone who is interested in making a film or helping others make their films. If you would like further information on this please send an email to fios@filmg.co.uk.
Since the FilmG 2008 awards ceremony Siubhlachan has screened at film festivals in Switzerland, South Korea and Canada. Director Ùisdean Murray has developed a 30 minute pilot episode for the Gaelic Channel, BBC ALBA.
Uisdean Murray with Carole Sheridan, Head of Talent at Scottish Screen and actor David Walker
5 weeks to go!
With the closing date on the 20 November, there are still five weeks left to make a 3-5 minute Gaelic short for the competition. FilmG is open to anyone aged 18 or over and has a separate category for 12-17 year olds. For full competition details and to view last year’s films for inspiration, visit the website www.filmg.co.uk
Entertainment
This year a special prize of £2,500 will be awarded for Best Entertainment short. This could be music, sport, a quiz show, chat show, a live performance or even a stand-up act. This category offers a great opportunity to win a cash prize and access to the £10K Development Fund. The prize winner could see their short film developed for screening locally, nationally and internationally.
Prizes
The cash prizes for FilmG include £3000 for best drama/comedy short and £3,000 for best factual short. There are also cash prizes for the best interpretation of the competition theme, Gaisgeach (hero, champion or warrior) as well as prizes for best performance, best presenter, best director and most creative production. A full list of prizes can be viewed on the FilmG website. Winners of the Best Director categories will also be offered access to the £10k Development Fund.
The FilmG team would like to hear from anyone who is interested in making a film or helping others make their films. If you would like further information on this please send an email to fios@filmg.co.uk.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Week: 44
Date: Saturday, 31 October – Friday, 6 November 2009
Title: Spòrs - Hibs v Aberdeen
Join the House of Sport team for the SPL 90, sports action, news and interviews.
Transmitted: Saturday 31st October 2009
Time: 20:00
Title: Trusadh / A Ghealach/The Moon
Celebrating the International Year of Astronomy and 40 years since the first moon landing. A look at the moon's effect on our planet and how space exploration has developed our understanding of it.
Transmitted: Monday 2nd November 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Soillse/ International Documentary Living in a Minefield
Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. In many rural areas, virtually all the fields and forest are mined. After her husband was killed, An Vi and her eight daughters were left with no choice but to risk their lives cultivating a mine-infested plot of land. "I just dig very shallow and don't dare to hack," Vi explains. "If there are deep mines then maybe we won't reach them". This is their story.
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th November 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Air An Rathad
Join the Air an Rathad team as they test drive loads of fun and fabulous cars.
The 'Air an Rathad' team are in car heaven at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where they meet up with former F1 Champion Sir Jackie Stewart, and Motorcycle Mania star Jesse James. Louise test drives the new Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe; does she think it's worth £300,000?
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th November 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Murchadh MacPharlain: Bard Mhealboist
This award-winning documentary profiles Murdo MacFarlane, the Melbost Bard, the renowned Gaelic poet and songwriter from the island of Lewis, whose work was a catalyst for a whole new era of modern Gaelic music. Having composed poems and songs all his life, it was not until the advent of the tape recorder that Murdo, who could neither read nor write music, became known to a wider audience.
The programme contains TV and radio archive recordings of Murdo in interviews, and also of him performing his work.
Transmitted: Thursday 5th November
Time: 21:00
Date: Saturday, 31 October – Friday, 6 November 2009
Title: Spòrs - Hibs v Aberdeen
Join the House of Sport team for the SPL 90, sports action, news and interviews.
Transmitted: Saturday 31st October 2009
Time: 20:00
Title: Trusadh / A Ghealach/The Moon
Celebrating the International Year of Astronomy and 40 years since the first moon landing. A look at the moon's effect on our planet and how space exploration has developed our understanding of it.
Transmitted: Monday 2nd November 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Soillse/ International Documentary Living in a Minefield
Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. In many rural areas, virtually all the fields and forest are mined. After her husband was killed, An Vi and her eight daughters were left with no choice but to risk their lives cultivating a mine-infested plot of land. "I just dig very shallow and don't dare to hack," Vi explains. "If there are deep mines then maybe we won't reach them". This is their story.
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th November 2009
Time: 21:00
Title: Air An Rathad
Join the Air an Rathad team as they test drive loads of fun and fabulous cars.
The 'Air an Rathad' team are in car heaven at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where they meet up with former F1 Champion Sir Jackie Stewart, and Motorcycle Mania star Jesse James. Louise test drives the new Rolls Royce Phantom Coupe; does she think it's worth £300,000?
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th November 2009
Time: 22:00
Title: Murchadh MacPharlain: Bard Mhealboist
This award-winning documentary profiles Murdo MacFarlane, the Melbost Bard, the renowned Gaelic poet and songwriter from the island of Lewis, whose work was a catalyst for a whole new era of modern Gaelic music. Having composed poems and songs all his life, it was not until the advent of the tape recorder that Murdo, who could neither read nor write music, became known to a wider audience.
The programme contains TV and radio archive recordings of Murdo in interviews, and also of him performing his work.
Transmitted: Thursday 5th November
Time: 21:00
Wednesday 14 October 2009
FARPAISEAN CHON-CHAORACH - SCOTTISH SHEEPDOG TRIALLING ON BBC ALBA
Sheepdog trialling will soon be returning to our screens with BBC ALBA’s second series of ‘Farpaisean Chon-chaorach’/Sheepdog Trials.
The series kicks off in the New Year with the Scottish Inter District Nursery Finals, from Campbeltown, Argyll. Handlers will be hoping their young dogs will be the future International Supreme Champions, testing their abilities during the winter’s nursery trials.
The nursery trials are a very important part of the trialling year, giving handlers a chance to assess how well younger dogs under two and a half years, who have not received points in open competition, are responding to training and whether or not they will be able to handle the pressures of trialling.
For featured trialist and sheep farmer Bobby Henderson of Carcant Farm in Heriot, who ran in Campbeltown with his sheepdog Tag, it’s a good opportunity to assess a young dog without putting them under too much pressure and also keeps handlers on their toes.
Bobby said: “It’s an apprenticeship for the dog. It gets them ready for open trials and there’s not too much pressure. They’re not up against experienced dogs. It gives them a chance to get going, get started. Also it motivates you, as a handler to put more work in with a young dog and put more time in with them.”
Alec McCuish from Skipness, Argyll who was also running in Campbeltown with his dog Mirk, knows what kind of dog he needs at this stage. Alec said: “You want a dog with a good temperament, one that enjoys being with other dogs and other people, that’s crucial. It can be good at home but if it’s not when it’s away from home it will be no use for trialling. You want a good out-runner, one that can collect the sheep to start with, the rest you can work on.”
The Campbeltown course proved to be a good challenge for the young dogs who were the best runners from the districts competitions that took place previously across Scotland.
Bobby Henderson, who ran with Tag, said: “The outrun was a bit of a challenge for some dogs, but once the sheep were picked up it was a nice course. It wasn’t the best of days weather wise, it was windy but the course was good and the sheep were good which makes a difference.”
As well as meeting competitors and their young dogs, the first episode of the new series also sees presenter Donald MacSween getting the lowdown on Nursery Trialling with Alec McCuish on his farm in Skipness. Also in the programme, presenter Catriona MacPhee introduces us to farmer and shepherds crook maker Philip Roskell from Moffat.
From the wilds of Kintyre, Farpaisean Chon-chaorach will also bring us trials and tribulations from an idyllic Hebridean Circuit, an uphill scenic trial from Atholl & Weem and a big hill trial from the Inverlochlarig Hill Trial, near Balquhidder.
The series will also feature competitors at the Scottish National Sheepdog Trials in Dumfriesshire which saw 50 dogs and their handlers take part on each of the three days for one of the 15 places in the Scottish team, as well as following the Scottish team to the International Sheepdog Trials, in Cumbria.
Viewers will also get the chance to access Catriona and Donald’s skills at dog handling, tutored by expert dog whisperer Julie Hill. Their lessons will feature throughout the series taking us on a journey of sheepdog discovery.
The first programme of the new series of Farpaisean Chon-chaorach is on BBC ALBA on Tuesday 5th January at 9pm.
The series kicks off in the New Year with the Scottish Inter District Nursery Finals, from Campbeltown, Argyll. Handlers will be hoping their young dogs will be the future International Supreme Champions, testing their abilities during the winter’s nursery trials.
The nursery trials are a very important part of the trialling year, giving handlers a chance to assess how well younger dogs under two and a half years, who have not received points in open competition, are responding to training and whether or not they will be able to handle the pressures of trialling.
For featured trialist and sheep farmer Bobby Henderson of Carcant Farm in Heriot, who ran in Campbeltown with his sheepdog Tag, it’s a good opportunity to assess a young dog without putting them under too much pressure and also keeps handlers on their toes.
Bobby said: “It’s an apprenticeship for the dog. It gets them ready for open trials and there’s not too much pressure. They’re not up against experienced dogs. It gives them a chance to get going, get started. Also it motivates you, as a handler to put more work in with a young dog and put more time in with them.”
Alec McCuish from Skipness, Argyll who was also running in Campbeltown with his dog Mirk, knows what kind of dog he needs at this stage. Alec said: “You want a dog with a good temperament, one that enjoys being with other dogs and other people, that’s crucial. It can be good at home but if it’s not when it’s away from home it will be no use for trialling. You want a good out-runner, one that can collect the sheep to start with, the rest you can work on.”
The Campbeltown course proved to be a good challenge for the young dogs who were the best runners from the districts competitions that took place previously across Scotland.
Bobby Henderson, who ran with Tag, said: “The outrun was a bit of a challenge for some dogs, but once the sheep were picked up it was a nice course. It wasn’t the best of days weather wise, it was windy but the course was good and the sheep were good which makes a difference.”
As well as meeting competitors and their young dogs, the first episode of the new series also sees presenter Donald MacSween getting the lowdown on Nursery Trialling with Alec McCuish on his farm in Skipness. Also in the programme, presenter Catriona MacPhee introduces us to farmer and shepherds crook maker Philip Roskell from Moffat.
From the wilds of Kintyre, Farpaisean Chon-chaorach will also bring us trials and tribulations from an idyllic Hebridean Circuit, an uphill scenic trial from Atholl & Weem and a big hill trial from the Inverlochlarig Hill Trial, near Balquhidder.
The series will also feature competitors at the Scottish National Sheepdog Trials in Dumfriesshire which saw 50 dogs and their handlers take part on each of the three days for one of the 15 places in the Scottish team, as well as following the Scottish team to the International Sheepdog Trials, in Cumbria.
Viewers will also get the chance to access Catriona and Donald’s skills at dog handling, tutored by expert dog whisperer Julie Hill. Their lessons will feature throughout the series taking us on a journey of sheepdog discovery.
The first programme of the new series of Farpaisean Chon-chaorach is on BBC ALBA on Tuesday 5th January at 9pm.
MATHER ENCOURAGES STUDENTS TO COMPETE IN BUSINESS ESSAY OPPORTUNITY
Following the launch of the annual ifs Young Business Writer of the Year competition, Jim Mather, MSP for Argyll & Bute, has urged teenagers living in his constituency to enter a national writing competition to make known their views about bankers pay and bonuses.
This competition is open to all UK school and college students aged between 14 and 19 and enables teenagers to test their writing skills by writing a 1,000 word article with the headline, "Bankers rewards - asking for trouble?"
As well as the title "ifs Young Business Writer of the Year", the winner will also receive a £500 cash prize.
Jim Mather stated,
"This competition achieves two admirable goals - encouraging young people to think about business & finance and helping to foster an interest in writing. I have no hesitation in encouraging teenagers in Argyll & Bute to participate and I wish them every success with their entries."
Rod McKee, Head of Financial Capability at the ifs School of Finance, said;
"We are pleased that Jim Mather has highlighted some of the benefits of this popular competition and encouraged his constituents to submit entries. Issues relating to bankers rewards can be complex and contentious so it will be interesting to have the insights of young folk from Argyll & Bute."
Anyone aged between 14 and 19 who wishes to enter this competition simply has to e-mail their article (which must not exceed 1,000 words) to ybwy@ifslearning.ac.uk between now and the competition final closing date of Monday 25 January 2010.
For more information please visit www.financialcapability.co.uk
Contact : Jim.mather.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
This competition is open to all UK school and college students aged between 14 and 19 and enables teenagers to test their writing skills by writing a 1,000 word article with the headline, "Bankers rewards - asking for trouble?"
As well as the title "ifs Young Business Writer of the Year", the winner will also receive a £500 cash prize.
Jim Mather stated,
"This competition achieves two admirable goals - encouraging young people to think about business & finance and helping to foster an interest in writing. I have no hesitation in encouraging teenagers in Argyll & Bute to participate and I wish them every success with their entries."
Rod McKee, Head of Financial Capability at the ifs School of Finance, said;
"We are pleased that Jim Mather has highlighted some of the benefits of this popular competition and encouraged his constituents to submit entries. Issues relating to bankers rewards can be complex and contentious so it will be interesting to have the insights of young folk from Argyll & Bute."
Anyone aged between 14 and 19 who wishes to enter this competition simply has to e-mail their article (which must not exceed 1,000 words) to ybwy@ifslearning.ac.uk
For more information please visit www.financialcapability.co.uk
Contact : Jim.mather.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
Energy Centre Gears Up Sea Test Sites
A new safety system is providing invaluable information about shipping activity in the waters where wave and tidal energy devices are tested in Orkney.
EMEC, the European Marine Energy Centre, has set up two receiving stations that pick up transmissions from ships operating near its test sites and over a wide sea area.
The information is important for EMEC, as it prepares for an increase in testing activity, but is also available to the public over the internet.
The main aim is to ensure that marine energy machines can operate safely at the wave test site in Atlantic waters to the west of Stromness and at the tidal test site off Eday.
But the information gathered is also fed into international databases that allow the movement of shipping worldwide to be charted on two freely available websites.
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is used by vessels to provide a wide range of information, including their position, speed and course.
EMEC has established receiving stations at the Black Craig in the West Mainland and on Eday to pick up AIS transmissions from shipping operating in Orkney waters.
“As more and more devices are installed at the wave and tidal test sites, it’s crucial that we have a clear and constantly updated source of information about vessels working in and around those areas,” said EMEC managing director Neil Kermode.
“AIS is a well proven system used by shipping worldwide and has an important role to play in ensuring that marine energy technologies and passing vessels can all operate safely in our local waters.”
Before the installation of the receiving station on the Black Craig, the surrounding sea area was regarded as an AIS blackspot, with hills and cliffs in the area blocking transmissions from ships to other stations on Orkney Mainland.
Standing at 113 metres above sea level, with an uninterrupted view to the west of Orkney, the Black Craig station is now picking up signals from far and wide.
“We knew it was a superb location, but we’ve still been surprised by the station’s range,” said EMEC senior operations engineer Graham Bleakley.
“It’s even picking up transmissions from CalMac ferry Isle of Lewis as she crosses the Minch between Ullapool and Stornoway. And that’s more than 100 miles away from Orkney.”
It is mandatory for ships over 300 tonnes to carry AIS equipment, with an increasing number of smaller commercial and leisure vessels also opting to fit the equipment as well.
“When you go on to the AIS websites you get an immediate picture of the ships at sea in our local waters,” added Mr Bleakley.
“You can see their location, speed and heading, as well as a wealth of other information about them. It’s fascinating to watch and, with all that data so freely available, it plays a really important role in promoting marine safety.
“We’re also pleased that the Black Craig receiving station is making a major contribution to AIS coverage, in what was previously a poorly covered area.”
EMEC is also working with Stromness-based environmental consultants Aquatera on a detailed analysis of the AIS information.
This will build a comprehensive picture of the sea areas most used by shipping, information that will help steer the safe commercial deployment of marine energy devices in Orkney waters.
The AIS information is available on the www.marinetraffic.com and www.shipais.com websites.
EMEC, the European Marine Energy Centre, has set up two receiving stations that pick up transmissions from ships operating near its test sites and over a wide sea area.
The information is important for EMEC, as it prepares for an increase in testing activity, but is also available to the public over the internet.
The main aim is to ensure that marine energy machines can operate safely at the wave test site in Atlantic waters to the west of Stromness and at the tidal test site off Eday.
But the information gathered is also fed into international databases that allow the movement of shipping worldwide to be charted on two freely available websites.
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is used by vessels to provide a wide range of information, including their position, speed and course.
EMEC has established receiving stations at the Black Craig in the West Mainland and on Eday to pick up AIS transmissions from shipping operating in Orkney waters.
“As more and more devices are installed at the wave and tidal test sites, it’s crucial that we have a clear and constantly updated source of information about vessels working in and around those areas,” said EMEC managing director Neil Kermode.
“AIS is a well proven system used by shipping worldwide and has an important role to play in ensuring that marine energy technologies and passing vessels can all operate safely in our local waters.”
Before the installation of the receiving station on the Black Craig, the surrounding sea area was regarded as an AIS blackspot, with hills and cliffs in the area blocking transmissions from ships to other stations on Orkney Mainland.
Standing at 113 metres above sea level, with an uninterrupted view to the west of Orkney, the Black Craig station is now picking up signals from far and wide.
“We knew it was a superb location, but we’ve still been surprised by the station’s range,” said EMEC senior operations engineer Graham Bleakley.
“It’s even picking up transmissions from CalMac ferry Isle of Lewis as she crosses the Minch between Ullapool and Stornoway. And that’s more than 100 miles away from Orkney.”
It is mandatory for ships over 300 tonnes to carry AIS equipment, with an increasing number of smaller commercial and leisure vessels also opting to fit the equipment as well.
“When you go on to the AIS websites you get an immediate picture of the ships at sea in our local waters,” added Mr Bleakley.
“You can see their location, speed and heading, as well as a wealth of other information about them. It’s fascinating to watch and, with all that data so freely available, it plays a really important role in promoting marine safety.
“We’re also pleased that the Black Craig receiving station is making a major contribution to AIS coverage, in what was previously a poorly covered area.”
EMEC is also working with Stromness-based environmental consultants Aquatera on a detailed analysis of the AIS information.
This will build a comprehensive picture of the sea areas most used by shipping, information that will help steer the safe commercial deployment of marine energy devices in Orkney waters.
The AIS information is available on the www.marinetraffic.com and www.shipais.com websites.
SNH launches new Gaelic natural history packs
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has launched a new series of Gaelic educational
materials celebrating some of Scotland's most interesting species. The Mu
Dheadhinn packs feature worksheets, games and full colour posters for free
distribution to schools throughout Scotland. The packs provide teachers and
students with a ready made set of educational projects and activities exploring
natural history through the Gaelic language.
Mu Dheadhinn is aimed at Gaelic speakers and non-speakers alike. The posters
and worksheets tell the story of each species through images, fact boxes, poems,
art activities and drama. Pupils of Sgoil Gaidhlig Inbhir Nis, one of
Scotland’s two Gaelic medium schools were the first to try out the new
worksheets as they searched for Fungi in the woodland landscape around their
school grounds.
SNH’s Gaelic communications officer Shona Sloan, from South Uist and a native
Gaelic speaker led the youngsters on a seasonal hunt for Fungasan in the
Culduthel woods near the school. She said:
“The Mu Dheadhinn series has been developed to bring nature alive in the
classroom and to encourage children to observe and understand nature in the
outdoors. We have tried to put together an entertaining educational package
which will inspire the children’s imagination to explore the natural world
around them and learn about the life cycles of some of Scotland’s species such
as Water Voles, Red Squirrels, Great Crested Newts, Fungi, Freshwater Pearl
Mussels and Bumblebees.”
“Each pack is designed to bring students in close to the life and habitat of
the species using Gaelic language games and fun exercises. The worksheets also
highlight how much the traditional Gaelic names and terms add to our
understanding of the natural world through their colourful descriptions of
particular species.”
The complete Mu Dheidhinn series is also available for free download from
Scottish Natural Heritage’s website www.snh.org.uk
materials celebrating some of Scotland's most interesting species. The Mu
Dheadhinn packs feature worksheets, games and full colour posters for free
distribution to schools throughout Scotland. The packs provide teachers and
students with a ready made set of educational projects and activities exploring
natural history through the Gaelic language.
Mu Dheadhinn is aimed at Gaelic speakers and non-speakers alike. The posters
and worksheets tell the story of each species through images, fact boxes, poems,
art activities and drama. Pupils of Sgoil Gaidhlig Inbhir Nis, one of
Scotland’s two Gaelic medium schools were the first to try out the new
worksheets as they searched for Fungi in the woodland landscape around their
school grounds.
SNH’s Gaelic communications officer Shona Sloan, from South Uist and a native
Gaelic speaker led the youngsters on a seasonal hunt for Fungasan in the
Culduthel woods near the school. She said:
“The Mu Dheadhinn series has been developed to bring nature alive in the
classroom and to encourage children to observe and understand nature in the
outdoors. We have tried to put together an entertaining educational package
which will inspire the children’s imagination to explore the natural world
around them and learn about the life cycles of some of Scotland’s species such
as Water Voles, Red Squirrels, Great Crested Newts, Fungi, Freshwater Pearl
Mussels and Bumblebees.”
“Each pack is designed to bring students in close to the life and habitat of
the species using Gaelic language games and fun exercises. The worksheets also
highlight how much the traditional Gaelic names and terms add to our
understanding of the natural world through their colourful descriptions of
particular species.”
The complete Mu Dheidhinn series is also available for free download from
Scottish Natural Heritage’s website www.snh.org.uk
PUBLIC ASKED TO HELP NHS HIGHLAND DEVELOP NEW COMMUNICATIONS FRAMEWORK
Members of the public from across the NHS Highland area are being asked to complete a short survey and give their feedback on current communication methods and suggest changes that the Board can make for the better.
The results of this survey will feed in to a new Communications Framework and will hopefully make it easier for people to get information about our services, activities and future plans.
Garry Coutts, Chair of NHS Highland, said:
“We are currently reviewing our existing Communications Strategy and as part of this review we were keen to receive input from a wide range of groups and individuals including the public, staff, local councillors, Board members and senior managers.
“We have therefore developed a range of surveys targeted at each of the groups above and hope that through these we will receive feedback on our current communications methods as well as suggestions that we can use to better our communications in the future.
“Through this review we aim to put together a new Communications Framework that will be a short, easy to read document that will present NHS Highland’s strategic aims in relation to communications.
“In putting all this together it is essential that we get as much feedback as possible and encourage as many people as we can to participate. I would therefore be really keen for members of the public to become involved in this process and to take a few minutes to fill out the questionnaire either online or we can arrange for a copy to be posted out.
“Finally, I would like to thank the public in advance for their assistance in this matter and would also like to reassure them that all responses that we receive will be treated in the utmost confidence.”
The results of this survey will feed in to a new Communications Framework and will hopefully make it easier for people to get information about our services, activities and future plans.
Garry Coutts, Chair of NHS Highland, said:
“We are currently reviewing our existing Communications Strategy and as part of this review we were keen to receive input from a wide range of groups and individuals including the public, staff, local councillors, Board members and senior managers.
“We have therefore developed a range of surveys targeted at each of the groups above and hope that through these we will receive feedback on our current communications methods as well as suggestions that we can use to better our communications in the future.
“Through this review we aim to put together a new Communications Framework that will be a short, easy to read document that will present NHS Highland’s strategic aims in relation to communications.
“In putting all this together it is essential that we get as much feedback as possible and encourage as many people as we can to participate. I would therefore be really keen for members of the public to become involved in this process and to take a few minutes to fill out the questionnaire either online or we can arrange for a copy to be posted out.
“Finally, I would like to thank the public in advance for their assistance in this matter and would also like to reassure them that all responses that we receive will be treated in the utmost confidence.”
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig a’ buileachadh urram air dithis Shàr Ghàidheal
Chaidh an obair ionmholta a rinneadh le dithis Ghàidheil a thaobh na Gàidhlig a chomharrachadh le Sabhal Mòr Ostaig aig Ceumnachd na Colaiste. Chaidh duais Shàr Ghàidheal a bhuileachadh air an Dr Ceana Chaimbeul às a’Ghriop anns an Eilean Sgitheanach agus air Mgr. Murchadh MacLeòid à Griais ann an Leòdhas mar aithneachadh air na rinn an dithis aca às leth a’ chànain agus foghlam Gàidhlig an Alba.
Thug an Dr Caimbeul iomadh bliadhna a’ teagasg agus mar Cheannard ann an sgoiltean taobh Ghlaschu agus bha i gu mòr an sàs anns an iomairt airson sgoil Ghàidhlig a stèidheachadh anns a’ bhaile. Tha i fìor ainmeil mar sheinneadair Gàidhlig agus mar shàr eòlaiche ciùil agus i aig cridhe an ath-bheothachaidh a tha air tighinn air ceòl Gàidhlig bho chionn beagan bhliadhnaichean. Às dèidh a dreuchd mar neach-teagaisg sgoile a leigeil dhith, ghabh Ceana dreuchd mar òraidiche aig an RSAMD a’ teagasg air a’ chùrsa BA Ceòl Albannach agus tha i cuideachd air mòran a dhèanamh as leth a’ chànain is a’ chultair ann an sgìre Ghlaschu tro Chomann Sgitheanach Ghlaschu agus leis An Lòchran, comann ealain a’ bhaile.
‘S e sàr sgoilear a th’ ann am Mgr MacLeòid a choisinn duaisean oilthigh ann an Ceiltis is Laideann nuair a bha e na oileanach aig Oilthigh Obar Dheathain agus a fhuair sgoilearachd bho Cholaiste Immanuel aig Oilthigh Chambridge. Thug Murchadh e fhèin iomadh bliadhna a’ teagasg, an toiseach ann an Sgoil Bhàgh a’ Chaisteil ann am Barraigh agus an uair sin mar Cheannard air a’ Ghàidhlig ann an sgoiltean air feadh siorrachd Inbhir Nis. Ghluais e gu bhith na neach-sgrùdaidh sgoile (HMI) is bha e còrr is fichead bliadhna san dreuchd. Tha Murchadh cuideachd an dèidh a bhith gu mòr an sàs ann an gnothaichean co-cheangailte ris a’ Ghàidhlig mu thimcheall Inbhir Nis agus tha e na Cheann-feadhna air Comann Gàidhlig Inbhir Nis.
Thuirt Ruairidh Iain MacLeòid, Cathraiche Bhòrd nan Urrasairean aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig; “Tha e fìor chudromach agus air leth freagarrach gu bheilear a’ toirt aithne is taing do Cheana agus do Mhurchadh air an aon latha is a thathar a’ cur meala-naidheachd air oileanaich na Colaiste. Cha b’ urrainn eisimpleir na b’ fheàrr a bhith aig na h-oileanaich is iad a’ gabhail ceum ùr nam beatha nan dithis aca agus an cuid saothrach a chum maith na Gàidhlig. Tha iad dha-rìreabh nan Sàr Ghàidheil.”
Cheumnaich 45 oileanaich uile gu lèir agus chaidh na teisteanasan a thoirt seachad le Iain Mac a’ Ghobhainn, Iar Phrionnsapal Ionnsachadh is Teagasg, Institiùid OGE nam Mìle Bliadhna, a’ comharrachadh gun robh oileanaich a’ faighinn an ceumannan tro OGE airson a’ chiad turas. Choisinn Iseabail Dick bho Shiorrachd Lannraig a Deas duais OGE airson Oileanach SMO na Bliadhna agus choisinn Angelika Asada-Stieger bhon Eilbheis Duais Cuimhneachaidh Fhearchar Mhic an Tòisich airson an oileanaich a rinn obair aig ìre bharraichte thar nan cùrsaichean gu lèir.
B’ e Art MacCarmaig, Cathraiche Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, a thug seachad òraid na Ceumnachd; “Mar Chathraiche Bhòrd na Gàidhlig tha mi gu math mothachail air an àite shònraichte a th’ aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig ann an oideachas na Gàidhlig. Bidh a’ Cholaiste aig teas-mheadhan Plana Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig a lìbhrigeadh agus bidh obair na Colaiste gu math cudromach don iomairt a tha romhainn aig Bòrd na Gàidhlig airson àireamh luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig àrdachadh.
“Tha a’ Cholaiste air sealltainn gun urrainn do dh’oileanaich na Gàidhlig a bhith ag ionnsachadh ann an suidheachadh a dh’fhàgadh farmad air oileanaich eile air feadh Alba. Leis gun deach ur n-oideachadh san àite sònraichte a tha seo, tha mi an dòchas gun cùm sibh a’ dol a’ bruidhinn na Gàidhlig; ag ionnsachadh na Gàidhlig; agus gar cuideachadh ann a bhith ga toirt do dhaoine eile.”
Thug an Dr Caimbeul iomadh bliadhna a’ teagasg agus mar Cheannard ann an sgoiltean taobh Ghlaschu agus bha i gu mòr an sàs anns an iomairt airson sgoil Ghàidhlig a stèidheachadh anns a’ bhaile. Tha i fìor ainmeil mar sheinneadair Gàidhlig agus mar shàr eòlaiche ciùil agus i aig cridhe an ath-bheothachaidh a tha air tighinn air ceòl Gàidhlig bho chionn beagan bhliadhnaichean. Às dèidh a dreuchd mar neach-teagaisg sgoile a leigeil dhith, ghabh Ceana dreuchd mar òraidiche aig an RSAMD a’ teagasg air a’ chùrsa BA Ceòl Albannach agus tha i cuideachd air mòran a dhèanamh as leth a’ chànain is a’ chultair ann an sgìre Ghlaschu tro Chomann Sgitheanach Ghlaschu agus leis An Lòchran, comann ealain a’ bhaile.
‘S e sàr sgoilear a th’ ann am Mgr MacLeòid a choisinn duaisean oilthigh ann an Ceiltis is Laideann nuair a bha e na oileanach aig Oilthigh Obar Dheathain agus a fhuair sgoilearachd bho Cholaiste Immanuel aig Oilthigh Chambridge. Thug Murchadh e fhèin iomadh bliadhna a’ teagasg, an toiseach ann an Sgoil Bhàgh a’ Chaisteil ann am Barraigh agus an uair sin mar Cheannard air a’ Ghàidhlig ann an sgoiltean air feadh siorrachd Inbhir Nis. Ghluais e gu bhith na neach-sgrùdaidh sgoile (HMI) is bha e còrr is fichead bliadhna san dreuchd. Tha Murchadh cuideachd an dèidh a bhith gu mòr an sàs ann an gnothaichean co-cheangailte ris a’ Ghàidhlig mu thimcheall Inbhir Nis agus tha e na Cheann-feadhna air Comann Gàidhlig Inbhir Nis.
Thuirt Ruairidh Iain MacLeòid, Cathraiche Bhòrd nan Urrasairean aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig; “Tha e fìor chudromach agus air leth freagarrach gu bheilear a’ toirt aithne is taing do Cheana agus do Mhurchadh air an aon latha is a thathar a’ cur meala-naidheachd air oileanaich na Colaiste. Cha b’ urrainn eisimpleir na b’ fheàrr a bhith aig na h-oileanaich is iad a’ gabhail ceum ùr nam beatha nan dithis aca agus an cuid saothrach a chum maith na Gàidhlig. Tha iad dha-rìreabh nan Sàr Ghàidheil.”
Cheumnaich 45 oileanaich uile gu lèir agus chaidh na teisteanasan a thoirt seachad le Iain Mac a’ Ghobhainn, Iar Phrionnsapal Ionnsachadh is Teagasg, Institiùid OGE nam Mìle Bliadhna, a’ comharrachadh gun robh oileanaich a’ faighinn an ceumannan tro OGE airson a’ chiad turas. Choisinn Iseabail Dick bho Shiorrachd Lannraig a Deas duais OGE airson Oileanach SMO na Bliadhna agus choisinn Angelika Asada-Stieger bhon Eilbheis Duais Cuimhneachaidh Fhearchar Mhic an Tòisich airson an oileanaich a rinn obair aig ìre bharraichte thar nan cùrsaichean gu lèir.
B’ e Art MacCarmaig, Cathraiche Bhòrd na Gàidhlig, a thug seachad òraid na Ceumnachd; “Mar Chathraiche Bhòrd na Gàidhlig tha mi gu math mothachail air an àite shònraichte a th’ aig Sabhal Mòr Ostaig ann an oideachas na Gàidhlig. Bidh a’ Cholaiste aig teas-mheadhan Plana Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig a lìbhrigeadh agus bidh obair na Colaiste gu math cudromach don iomairt a tha romhainn aig Bòrd na Gàidhlig airson àireamh luchd-labhairt na Gàidhlig àrdachadh.
“Tha a’ Cholaiste air sealltainn gun urrainn do dh’oileanaich na Gàidhlig a bhith ag ionnsachadh ann an suidheachadh a dh’fhàgadh farmad air oileanaich eile air feadh Alba. Leis gun deach ur n-oideachadh san àite sònraichte a tha seo, tha mi an dòchas gun cùm sibh a’ dol a’ bruidhinn na Gàidhlig; ag ionnsachadh na Gàidhlig; agus gar cuideachadh ann a bhith ga toirt do dhaoine eile.”
Trade Union says "Make Diageo think again over closures decision, workers appeal to shareholders "
Workers representing the 900 Diageo workers whose jobs hang in the balance with the threat of widespread cuts and the closure of the historic Johnnie Walker plant at Kilmarnock and the Port Dundas Distillery will be outside the company's AGM today (Wednesday) fighting for their jobs.
Warning that industrial action to oppose the cuts is a growing possibility, the workers want the shareholders to force discussion of the alternative proposals submitted to the Board by the workers and their union, Unite.
The workers have journeyed from Scotland for the meeting which is set to contrast yet another year of enormous profits for Diageo with the certain devastation the company's restructuring plans will bring to their communities. In particular, there is deep concern for the Kilmarnock plant, the home of Johnnie Walker for 180 years, which will close under Diageo's plans. The plant is among the last major employers in the Scottish town, and counts generations of the same families, friends and neighbours among its workforce.
Diageo workers, themselves shareholders, believe that the management has hidden the board from any consideration of alternatives to their savage plans. The trade unions' alternative plan could save Diageo and its shareholders some £80 million, avert the need for closures and job cuts on the widespread scale envisaged, and put a stop to the reputational damage Diageo is suffering as the campaign to halt the cuts builds momentum in the UK and overseas. However, the company's management has dismissed the proposals out of hand.
Among the changes proposed by the workers are:
* At Kilmarnock, a saving of £84 million on the cost of building a new facility plus saving £36 million needed to close the plant. Labour costs savings of £8m per annum could also be saved, in addition to the further assistance which could be levered in through support from Scottish Enterprise and local authorities
* Safeguarding the Scotch whisky distillery plant in Port Dundas, Glasgow, to ensure whisky continues to be distilled by Scottish Diageo workers, and at the same time help meet short-term capacity needs. Up to £5 million savings per year could also be made by lowering labour costs and through cost savings.
According to Unite, the trade union proposals would deliver flexibility and more efficient working, in contrast to the management proposals which are based on an incomplete financial analysis and will create a risky three year gap between capacity and demand, which is set to grow despite the recession.
Contacting them ahead of the meeting in a letter to fellow shareholders, the workers state: "Diageo’s proposals to axe 900 jobs across Scotland will destroy communities and ditch over a century of proud heritage for the Johnnie Walker brand in Scotland. The moves have been described as akin to the company ripping the heart out of the Scottish whisky industry. Diageo workers are determined to fight these plans, believing there is a more humane alternative, one which also makes sound business sense.
"We know that Diageo's shareholders want a strong and thriving business. So do we, because strong businesses mean good jobs. But as shareholders, we think you also want one which can hold its head up high in the towns and the communities that have made you such good returns.
"This is a loyal workforce, one which includes generations of the same family. Their hard work helped make this company a global success story, one which pocketed a healthy £2 billion profit this year. Only this year the workforce agreed pay restraint in exchange for job security, to unpaid time off and to short-time working to protect those massive profits. Please do not repay this loyalty by slashing 900 jobs.
"The trade union business plan proves that Diageo can still increase efficiency and profitability in Scotland without closures and job losses. We believe that you need to know the details of that plan, which provides significant savings both in capital investment and annual costs, so that you can judge for yourselves."
The workers go on to say that Diageo's plans "have prompted widespread opposition from local communities and across the globe with a serious risk to the brand. In July, 20,000 people called for Diageo to think again as they marched through Kilmarnock. Since then, over half a million supporters have joined the campaign and it is growing every day. Poor public opinion of Diageo poses a serious risk to brand integrity and future profits. For every day this campaign continues, Diageo's reputation in Scotland and abroad is hit."
Outside today's AGM, Diageo workers and their union reps will be leafleting shareholders as they go into the meeting from 1.30pm–2.30pm at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, 2 Savoy Place, London WC2R 0BL. The workers will be carrying with them a huge "Message in a Bottle" which contains just some of the messages of support sent to them as they fight to save their jobs.
Warning that industrial action to oppose the cuts is a growing possibility, the workers want the shareholders to force discussion of the alternative proposals submitted to the Board by the workers and their union, Unite.
The workers have journeyed from Scotland for the meeting which is set to contrast yet another year of enormous profits for Diageo with the certain devastation the company's restructuring plans will bring to their communities. In particular, there is deep concern for the Kilmarnock plant, the home of Johnnie Walker for 180 years, which will close under Diageo's plans. The plant is among the last major employers in the Scottish town, and counts generations of the same families, friends and neighbours among its workforce.
Diageo workers, themselves shareholders, believe that the management has hidden the board from any consideration of alternatives to their savage plans. The trade unions' alternative plan could save Diageo and its shareholders some £80 million, avert the need for closures and job cuts on the widespread scale envisaged, and put a stop to the reputational damage Diageo is suffering as the campaign to halt the cuts builds momentum in the UK and overseas. However, the company's management has dismissed the proposals out of hand.
Among the changes proposed by the workers are:
* At Kilmarnock, a saving of £84 million on the cost of building a new facility plus saving £36 million needed to close the plant. Labour costs savings of £8m per annum could also be saved, in addition to the further assistance which could be levered in through support from Scottish Enterprise and local authorities
* Safeguarding the Scotch whisky distillery plant in Port Dundas, Glasgow, to ensure whisky continues to be distilled by Scottish Diageo workers, and at the same time help meet short-term capacity needs. Up to £5 million savings per year could also be made by lowering labour costs and through cost savings.
According to Unite, the trade union proposals would deliver flexibility and more efficient working, in contrast to the management proposals which are based on an incomplete financial analysis and will create a risky three year gap between capacity and demand, which is set to grow despite the recession.
Contacting them ahead of the meeting in a letter to fellow shareholders, the workers state: "Diageo’s proposals to axe 900 jobs across Scotland will destroy communities and ditch over a century of proud heritage for the Johnnie Walker brand in Scotland. The moves have been described as akin to the company ripping the heart out of the Scottish whisky industry. Diageo workers are determined to fight these plans, believing there is a more humane alternative, one which also makes sound business sense.
"We know that Diageo's shareholders want a strong and thriving business. So do we, because strong businesses mean good jobs. But as shareholders, we think you also want one which can hold its head up high in the towns and the communities that have made you such good returns.
"This is a loyal workforce, one which includes generations of the same family. Their hard work helped make this company a global success story, one which pocketed a healthy £2 billion profit this year. Only this year the workforce agreed pay restraint in exchange for job security, to unpaid time off and to short-time working to protect those massive profits. Please do not repay this loyalty by slashing 900 jobs.
"The trade union business plan proves that Diageo can still increase efficiency and profitability in Scotland without closures and job losses. We believe that you need to know the details of that plan, which provides significant savings both in capital investment and annual costs, so that you can judge for yourselves."
The workers go on to say that Diageo's plans "have prompted widespread opposition from local communities and across the globe with a serious risk to the brand. In July, 20,000 people called for Diageo to think again as they marched through Kilmarnock. Since then, over half a million supporters have joined the campaign and it is growing every day. Poor public opinion of Diageo poses a serious risk to brand integrity and future profits. For every day this campaign continues, Diageo's reputation in Scotland and abroad is hit."
Outside today's AGM, Diageo workers and their union reps will be leafleting shareholders as they go into the meeting from 1.30pm–2.30pm at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, 2 Savoy Place, London WC2R 0BL. The workers will be carrying with them a huge "Message in a Bottle" which contains just some of the messages of support sent to them as they fight to save their jobs.
Monday 12 October 2009
CALMAC A’ CUR LEABHRAN-SANAIS EXPLORE 2010 AIR BHOG AIG A’ MHÒD NÀISEANTA RÌOGHAIL
Chuir a’ chompanaidh aiseig Caledonian Mac a’ Bhriuthainn (CalMac) an leabhran-sanais aca, Explore 2010, air bhog aig a’ Mhòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail san Òban an-diugh (Diluain, 12 Dàmhair).
Thuirt Phil Preston, Stiùiriche Rianachd Chaledonian Mhic a’ Bhriuthainn a bha a’ bruidhinn aig an tachartas: “’S e Explore 2010 prìomh leabhran-sanais ChalMac agus ’s e inneal dealbhaidh riatanach a tha ann don a h-uile duine aig a bheil ùidh ann a bhith a’ siubhal gu na 24 cinn-uidhe far cladach siar na h-Alba a tha lìonradh ChalMac a’ frithealadh.”
Tha facal-toisich ann an Explore am bliadhna-sa bhon chleasaiche John Michie, a tha ainmeil airson a phàirt mar D.I. Ros ann an ‘Taggart’ agus mar neach-aithris den t-sreath aithriseach ‘Made in Scotland.’ Tha e ag innse mu na h-eileanan as fheàrr leis fhèin agus na tursan tlachdmhor a rinn e air lìonradh ChalMac.
Thuirt Phil Preston: “An-uiridh chaidh Explore air an eadar-lìon airson a’ chiad uair agus tha mu 20,000 neach air feadh an t-saoghail air coimhead ris air-loidhne. Tha sinn fìor thoilichte gu bheil na h-uidhir de dhaoine air roghnachadh na tursan aca a chur air dòigh mar seo ach leanaidh sinn air adhart le dreachd chlò-bhuailte den leabhran-sanais a bhios ri fhaotainn aig ionadan-aiseig ChalMac agus air na h-aiseagan againn, a bharrachd air ionadan turasachd air feadh na dùthcha.”
Explore…2
Tha leabhran-sanais Explore 2010 a’ gabhail a-steach clàran-ama ChalMac bho 25 Dàmhair, 2009 gu 25 Màrt, 2010 (Geamhradh) agus 26 Màrt, 2010 gu 23 Dàmhair, 2010 (Samhradh). Tha e cuideachd a’ toirt fiosrachadh mu cheangalan rèile agus bus, taghadh de shanasan àiteachan-fuirich agus molaidhean mu rudan a dh’fhaodas luchd-turais fhaicinn is a dhèanamh mu thimcheall lìonradh ChalMac, agus dealbhannan air an taghadh a chòrdas ri raon farsaing luchd-tadhail.
Tha lethbhreacan de chlàran-ama Geamhraidh ChalMac airson 2009/10, a tha a’ tòiseachadh air an 25 Dàmhair, 2009 cuideachd rim faotainn a-nis bho phuirt, oifisean agus air soithichean.
Cuideachd, cha robh e riamh cho furasta àite a ghleidheadh no fiosrachadh seirbheis fhaotainn, le dà àireamh-fòn an-asgaidh – 0800 066 5000 airson Gleidhidhean agus 0800 066 5400 airson Fiosrachadh Seirbheis.
Thuirt Phil Preston, Stiùiriche Rianachd Chaledonian Mhic a’ Bhriuthainn a bha a’ bruidhinn aig an tachartas: “’S e Explore 2010 prìomh leabhran-sanais ChalMac agus ’s e inneal dealbhaidh riatanach a tha ann don a h-uile duine aig a bheil ùidh ann a bhith a’ siubhal gu na 24 cinn-uidhe far cladach siar na h-Alba a tha lìonradh ChalMac a’ frithealadh.”
Tha facal-toisich ann an Explore am bliadhna-sa bhon chleasaiche John Michie, a tha ainmeil airson a phàirt mar D.I. Ros ann an ‘Taggart’ agus mar neach-aithris den t-sreath aithriseach ‘Made in Scotland.’ Tha e ag innse mu na h-eileanan as fheàrr leis fhèin agus na tursan tlachdmhor a rinn e air lìonradh ChalMac.
Thuirt Phil Preston: “An-uiridh chaidh Explore air an eadar-lìon airson a’ chiad uair agus tha mu 20,000 neach air feadh an t-saoghail air coimhead ris air-loidhne. Tha sinn fìor thoilichte gu bheil na h-uidhir de dhaoine air roghnachadh na tursan aca a chur air dòigh mar seo ach leanaidh sinn air adhart le dreachd chlò-bhuailte den leabhran-sanais a bhios ri fhaotainn aig ionadan-aiseig ChalMac agus air na h-aiseagan againn, a bharrachd air ionadan turasachd air feadh na dùthcha.”
Explore…2
Tha leabhran-sanais Explore 2010 a’ gabhail a-steach clàran-ama ChalMac bho 25 Dàmhair, 2009 gu 25 Màrt, 2010 (Geamhradh) agus 26 Màrt, 2010 gu 23 Dàmhair, 2010 (Samhradh). Tha e cuideachd a’ toirt fiosrachadh mu cheangalan rèile agus bus, taghadh de shanasan àiteachan-fuirich agus molaidhean mu rudan a dh’fhaodas luchd-turais fhaicinn is a dhèanamh mu thimcheall lìonradh ChalMac, agus dealbhannan air an taghadh a chòrdas ri raon farsaing luchd-tadhail.
Tha lethbhreacan de chlàran-ama Geamhraidh ChalMac airson 2009/10, a tha a’ tòiseachadh air an 25 Dàmhair, 2009 cuideachd rim faotainn a-nis bho phuirt, oifisean agus air soithichean.
Cuideachd, cha robh e riamh cho furasta àite a ghleidheadh no fiosrachadh seirbheis fhaotainn, le dà àireamh-fòn an-asgaidh – 0800 066 5000 airson Gleidhidhean agus 0800 066 5400 airson Fiosrachadh Seirbheis.
Diageo Press release from Trade Union UNITE
Diageo workers appeal to CEO: tell us to our faces why we're losing our jobs
Anxious and angry workers from the Johnnie Walker plant in Kilmarnock have today (Monday) written to their boss, CEO Paul Walsh, imploring him to meet with them by the end of this month so that he can tell the workforce personally why he is to close their historic plant with the loss of hundreds of jobs.
With Diageo the last major employer in the Scottish town, and with many within the same family set to lose their jobs, the workers want Paul Walsh to explain to them directly by the end of October why he is so committed to plans that will bring certain ruin to the local community.
The workers, all members of Unite, are devastated that Diageo has rejected out of hand an alternative business plan proposed by the trade unions, which would have saved a massive £80 million for the company and led to significant efficiencies on the sites earmarked for closure. Diageo's refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue with the unions over any alternative solution means they are set to force through their plans which will see 900 jobs slashed, the historic Kilmarnock "home of Johnnie Walker" plant shut, the closure of Port Dundas Distillery and Cooperage and further redundancies at Glasgow’s Shieldhall packaging plant
Determined to make Diageo think again and reverse the closure plans, the angry workers have now written to their employer, Paul Walsh, who awards himself a salary in excess of £3.5 million every year, saying:
"We were very disappointed and angry to learn that the company is not prepared to spend any more time examining the trade union alternative business plan and has rejected it as not providing the levels of savings and cost cutting that Diageo is demanding from the Scottish plants. That plan proposed significant savings by reducing the investment required by a massive £80 million, as well as substantial annual savings through reductions in the workforce, improved efficiencies and the offer of changed working practices on all sites. Why is this not enough for you?
"You have said on numerous occasions that the workforce are a most valued asset for Diageo, yet it does not feel like this at all when you are prepared to consign over 900 of us to the dole queue. Many of us have worked for the company for over 30, and in some cases, 40 years with our families before us being part of the tradition that built the Johnnie Walker brand. You made over £2 billion profit this year, yet because you don’t think that’s enough, we will find ourselves out of work with little chance of finding alternative employment. And what hope is there for our children and future generations when the most important employer in Kilmarnock is deserting us?
"We would like to invite you to come to Kilmarnock before the end of October when the consultation process ends so you can meet us and account for the actions and decisions of Diageo. We also want to present you with the petition that has been signed by all your workers and the whole community within Kilmarnock, in the hope that you will change your mind. If we cannot persuade you to think again, at the very least you will be able to explain to us face to face why you believe there is no alternative."
The letter has been sent to CEO Paul Walsh ahead of Diageo's AGM in London later this week (Wednesday, October 14th), when the company is set to reveal another year of staggering profits. A delegation of workers from all sites are set to lobby shareholders as they go into the meeting, asking for their support and urging them to use their influence to get Diageo's management to think again.
Anxious and angry workers from the Johnnie Walker plant in Kilmarnock have today (Monday) written to their boss, CEO Paul Walsh, imploring him to meet with them by the end of this month so that he can tell the workforce personally why he is to close their historic plant with the loss of hundreds of jobs.
With Diageo the last major employer in the Scottish town, and with many within the same family set to lose their jobs, the workers want Paul Walsh to explain to them directly by the end of October why he is so committed to plans that will bring certain ruin to the local community.
The workers, all members of Unite, are devastated that Diageo has rejected out of hand an alternative business plan proposed by the trade unions, which would have saved a massive £80 million for the company and led to significant efficiencies on the sites earmarked for closure. Diageo's refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue with the unions over any alternative solution means they are set to force through their plans which will see 900 jobs slashed, the historic Kilmarnock "home of Johnnie Walker" plant shut, the closure of Port Dundas Distillery and Cooperage and further redundancies at Glasgow’s Shieldhall packaging plant
Determined to make Diageo think again and reverse the closure plans, the angry workers have now written to their employer, Paul Walsh, who awards himself a salary in excess of £3.5 million every year, saying:
"We were very disappointed and angry to learn that the company is not prepared to spend any more time examining the trade union alternative business plan and has rejected it as not providing the levels of savings and cost cutting that Diageo is demanding from the Scottish plants. That plan proposed significant savings by reducing the investment required by a massive £80 million, as well as substantial annual savings through reductions in the workforce, improved efficiencies and the offer of changed working practices on all sites. Why is this not enough for you?
"You have said on numerous occasions that the workforce are a most valued asset for Diageo, yet it does not feel like this at all when you are prepared to consign over 900 of us to the dole queue. Many of us have worked for the company for over 30, and in some cases, 40 years with our families before us being part of the tradition that built the Johnnie Walker brand. You made over £2 billion profit this year, yet because you don’t think that’s enough, we will find ourselves out of work with little chance of finding alternative employment. And what hope is there for our children and future generations when the most important employer in Kilmarnock is deserting us?
"We would like to invite you to come to Kilmarnock before the end of October when the consultation process ends so you can meet us and account for the actions and decisions of Diageo. We also want to present you with the petition that has been signed by all your workers and the whole community within Kilmarnock, in the hope that you will change your mind. If we cannot persuade you to think again, at the very least you will be able to explain to us face to face why you believe there is no alternative."
The letter has been sent to CEO Paul Walsh ahead of Diageo's AGM in London later this week (Wednesday, October 14th), when the company is set to reveal another year of staggering profits. A delegation of workers from all sites are set to lobby shareholders as they go into the meeting, asking for their support and urging them to use their influence to get Diageo's management to think again.
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