Argyll and Bute Council is alerting parents, guardians and carers to the possibility of school closures at short notice over the next few days.
There is a severe weather warning alert for tonight through to tomorrow and potentially beyond, with significant snow fall and very low temperatures predicted.
The weather warning may impact differently on different areas of Argyll and Bute, and some areas are likely to be less affected than others. In those worst hit, there is a high risk of schools having to close.
The council will keep as many schools open as it is able to. However, weather conditions can vary significantly even within local areas, and parents should use their own judgement regarding whether the journey to school is safe for their children.
Argyll and Bute’s spokesperson for Education and Lifelong Learning, Councillor Ellen Morton, said the safety of pupils and staff was the over-riding concern.
“We do not take the decision to close any school lightly,” she added.
“However, the wish to keep providing education for our children and young people has to be balanced against the practicalities of trying to keep schools open in severe weather.
“There are all sorts of factors which can contribute to the decision to close a school in bad weather, such as transport concerns, building and heating issues, lack of water and ensuring that enough staff can get to work to look after any children and young people who manage to get to school.
“We are receiving regular updates from the Met Office, the Scottish Government, Strathclyde Police and others, and our decisions over the next few days will be based on the actual conditions across Argyll and Bute along with the advice received from various agencies.”
Argyll and Bute’s roads team’s priority during severe weather is to keep main transport routes open, followed by school and other key service routes.
If any school closures are necessary, schools will be in touch with parents and guardians through the normal channels. The Council will also ensure that all school closure news is circulated via the broadcast media and Twitter (argyllandbute) and that information is also uploaded onto its website (www.argyll-bute.gov.uk).
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
School Closures - 'OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL TO HAVE THEIR SAY' - says Council
The following is an Argyll and Bute Council Press Release
...........................................
Argyll and Bute Council’s statutory consultation on proposals to amalgamate some primary schools started this week.
The consultation provides the opportunity for everyone to have their say – not just those with children of primary school age. The council hopes everyone in Argyll and Bute will come forward and give their views.
In addition to public meetings, feedback on the consultation can be given by phone, email or post.
Cleland Sneddon, executive director of community services, is confident the consultation will provide a useful platform for everyone across Argyll and Bute to get involved. He explains:
“We’ve already had some innovative suggestions from community groups who think they can find ways to reduce the costs associated with running our schools, without the need for closures. And that’s before the official consultation period actually starts. I’d urge anyone who has an opinion on this to get involved and let us know what they think.
“The consultation will help us identify alternative proposals and will highlight any inaccuracies in our current proposals. All of the information we receive will help councillors to make informed decisions when the consultation ends. That’s exactly what consultation is about.”
Argyll and Bute Council needs to reduce its overall budget of £277.6m. The education service currently accounts for 29% (£80m) of that sum.
The cut in grant funding for 2011/12 is £11.4m (4.94%), which effectively means that the council will have to cut its budget by about £15m after allowing for inflation etc.
This settlement figure, recently announced by the Scottish Government, is significantly worse (some £5.6m, almost double the Scottish average) than anticipated.
The education service needs to reduce its spend by £12 million over the next three years to meet its budget targets. If the education budget is protected, then bigger cuts will need to me made elsewhere.
Councillors agreed on 6 December to consult on proposals to amalgamate some primary schools, reducing the total number of primaries in Argyll and Bute by 25. If accepted, the proposals would generate almost £2 million in annual savings.
The eight week consultation period will officially end on 24 February, after which time councillors will use the information gathered to decide which, if any, of the proposals they will take forward.
Mr Sneddon continued:
“Children in Argyll and Bute already receive a very high standard of education and this will continue. However, we can’t avoid the need to reduce the amount we spend.
“In addition, a significant proportion of primary schools are less than half full and school rolls are continuing to decline, with the result that the available budget is spread too thinly.
“In some places we’re spending more than £30,000 per year to educate a child and in other places it’s just £3,000. It’s not equitable and not sustainable.”
He added that spreading the education service’s resources over too large an estate simply does not make sense.
“We believe our proposals will protect the education of children and in some cases bring additional benefits. But we’re keen to hear if the rest of the community agrees, which is why we’re taking this to consultation,” Mr Sneddon said.
“The only way in which we can make a balanced judgment on how best to proceed once this consultation period is over is if we gather a comprehensive picture of the views of individuals and communities across Argyll and Bute.
“We are committed to wholly transparent and robust consultation. I would encourage anyone who has a view on this subject – whether in general or regarding a particular school or proposal – to play their part to ensure this process is as rigorous as possible.”
A summary of the proposals, together with a full copy of the documents, is available at www.education.ea.argyll-bute.sch.uk/schoolconsultations
Anyone wishing to write to the council in response can either email schoolconsultations@argyll-bute.gov.uk or write to Education Service, School Consultations, Argyll and Bute Council, Argyll House, Alexandra Parade, Dunoon, PA23 8AJ.
The official consultation period runs from Monday, 13 December 2010 and ends on Thursday, February 24 2011.
...........................................................
Locations and times have been set for the public consultation meetings to discuss the council’s school amalgamation plans.
A meeting will be held for each proposal in either January or early February. In most cases, in response to requests from parents and others, the meetings will take place in a school which would close under the proposals. Where this is not feasible due to capacity or the locations being inappropriate, the meetings are arranged in the receiving school or local halls.
All meetings will be held at 7pm. The locations and dates are:
Hermitage Primary/Luss – Luss Village Hall – Thursday, January 27
Parklands – Parklands School - Thursday, January 20
Garelochhead/Rosneath/Kilcreggan –Rosneath Primary – Monday, January 24
Innellan/Toward – Toward Primary – Monday, January 10
Sandbank/Strone – Highgate Hall, Strone – Wednesday, January 19
Rothesay/North Bute – Port Bannatyne Village Hall – Thursday, February 3
Tighnabruaich/Strachur/Kilmodan – Kilmodan Primary – Monday, February 7
Castlehill/St Keirans – Castlehill Primary – Monday, January 17
Drumlemble/Southend - Southend Primary - Monday, January 17
Clachan/Rhunahaorine/Skipness/Glenbarr – Glenbarr Primary - Tuesday, January 18
Kilmartin/Dalmally/Ardchonnel – Dalmally Primary - Wednesday, January 19
Port Charlotte/Keills – Keills Primary - Tuesday, January 25
Ardrishaig/Achahoish – Achahoish Primary - Tuesday, January 11
Tayvallich/Ashfield – Ashfield Primary - Wednesday, January 12
Lochgilphead/Minard/Glassary – Lochgilphead Joint Campus – Wednesday, February 2
Taynuilt/Kilchrenan - Kilchrenan Primary - Thursday, January 13
Salen/Lochdonhead – Lochdonhead Primary - Monday, January 31
Dervaig/Ulva – Ulva Primary - Tuesday, February 1
Lochnell/Barcaldine/Achaleven/Ardchattan – Victory Hall, Benderloch – Wednesday, January 26
The full approach to consultation can be found on the council’s website at https://www.education.ea.argyll-bute.sch.uk/schoolconsultations/documents/Annex_5-School_Estate_Consultation_Process_2010_CS.pdf. The timetable for consultation is as follows:
6 December 2010 Publish proposals and provide notice to all relevant
consultees
13 December 2010 Start statutory consultation period
24 February 2011 End of consultation period
10 March 2011 Forward to HMIE copies of the proposals, record of written
and oral submissions from consultation process and other relevant documents
7 April 2011 HMIE submit their report to the Council on all Proposals
28 April 2011 Council publishes the Consultation Report, covering
written and oral representations made during the consultation and matters raised in the HMIE report
19 May 2011 Authority can make formal decision to accept or reject
proposals. Six week period starts to allow representations to the ScottishGovernment (3 weeks) and for the Government to decide whether to call in the proposals or not (3 weeks).
30 June 2011 Period for representations to the Scottish Government and
possibility of call-in by the Scottish Government ends. Council can now implement any decisions taken with regard to the proposals.
...........................................
Argyll and Bute Council’s statutory consultation on proposals to amalgamate some primary schools started this week.
The consultation provides the opportunity for everyone to have their say – not just those with children of primary school age. The council hopes everyone in Argyll and Bute will come forward and give their views.
In addition to public meetings, feedback on the consultation can be given by phone, email or post.
Cleland Sneddon, executive director of community services, is confident the consultation will provide a useful platform for everyone across Argyll and Bute to get involved. He explains:
“We’ve already had some innovative suggestions from community groups who think they can find ways to reduce the costs associated with running our schools, without the need for closures. And that’s before the official consultation period actually starts. I’d urge anyone who has an opinion on this to get involved and let us know what they think.
“The consultation will help us identify alternative proposals and will highlight any inaccuracies in our current proposals. All of the information we receive will help councillors to make informed decisions when the consultation ends. That’s exactly what consultation is about.”
Argyll and Bute Council needs to reduce its overall budget of £277.6m. The education service currently accounts for 29% (£80m) of that sum.
The cut in grant funding for 2011/12 is £11.4m (4.94%), which effectively means that the council will have to cut its budget by about £15m after allowing for inflation etc.
This settlement figure, recently announced by the Scottish Government, is significantly worse (some £5.6m, almost double the Scottish average) than anticipated.
The education service needs to reduce its spend by £12 million over the next three years to meet its budget targets. If the education budget is protected, then bigger cuts will need to me made elsewhere.
Councillors agreed on 6 December to consult on proposals to amalgamate some primary schools, reducing the total number of primaries in Argyll and Bute by 25. If accepted, the proposals would generate almost £2 million in annual savings.
The eight week consultation period will officially end on 24 February, after which time councillors will use the information gathered to decide which, if any, of the proposals they will take forward.
Mr Sneddon continued:
“Children in Argyll and Bute already receive a very high standard of education and this will continue. However, we can’t avoid the need to reduce the amount we spend.
“In addition, a significant proportion of primary schools are less than half full and school rolls are continuing to decline, with the result that the available budget is spread too thinly.
“In some places we’re spending more than £30,000 per year to educate a child and in other places it’s just £3,000. It’s not equitable and not sustainable.”
He added that spreading the education service’s resources over too large an estate simply does not make sense.
“We believe our proposals will protect the education of children and in some cases bring additional benefits. But we’re keen to hear if the rest of the community agrees, which is why we’re taking this to consultation,” Mr Sneddon said.
“The only way in which we can make a balanced judgment on how best to proceed once this consultation period is over is if we gather a comprehensive picture of the views of individuals and communities across Argyll and Bute.
“We are committed to wholly transparent and robust consultation. I would encourage anyone who has a view on this subject – whether in general or regarding a particular school or proposal – to play their part to ensure this process is as rigorous as possible.”
A summary of the proposals, together with a full copy of the documents, is available at www.education.ea.argyll-bute.sch.uk/schoolconsultations
Anyone wishing to write to the council in response can either email schoolconsultations@argyll-bute.gov.uk or write to Education Service, School Consultations, Argyll and Bute Council, Argyll House, Alexandra Parade, Dunoon, PA23 8AJ.
The official consultation period runs from Monday, 13 December 2010 and ends on Thursday, February 24 2011.
...........................................................
Locations and times have been set for the public consultation meetings to discuss the council’s school amalgamation plans.
A meeting will be held for each proposal in either January or early February. In most cases, in response to requests from parents and others, the meetings will take place in a school which would close under the proposals. Where this is not feasible due to capacity or the locations being inappropriate, the meetings are arranged in the receiving school or local halls.
All meetings will be held at 7pm. The locations and dates are:
Hermitage Primary/Luss – Luss Village Hall – Thursday, January 27
Parklands – Parklands School - Thursday, January 20
Garelochhead/Rosneath/Kilcreggan –Rosneath Primary – Monday, January 24
Innellan/Toward – Toward Primary – Monday, January 10
Sandbank/Strone – Highgate Hall, Strone – Wednesday, January 19
Rothesay/North Bute – Port Bannatyne Village Hall – Thursday, February 3
Tighnabruaich/Strachur/Kilmodan – Kilmodan Primary – Monday, February 7
Castlehill/St Keirans – Castlehill Primary – Monday, January 17
Drumlemble/Southend - Southend Primary - Monday, January 17
Clachan/Rhunahaorine/Skipness/Glenbarr – Glenbarr Primary - Tuesday, January 18
Kilmartin/Dalmally/Ardchonnel – Dalmally Primary - Wednesday, January 19
Port Charlotte/Keills – Keills Primary - Tuesday, January 25
Ardrishaig/Achahoish – Achahoish Primary - Tuesday, January 11
Tayvallich/Ashfield – Ashfield Primary - Wednesday, January 12
Lochgilphead/Minard/Glassary – Lochgilphead Joint Campus – Wednesday, February 2
Taynuilt/Kilchrenan - Kilchrenan Primary - Thursday, January 13
Salen/Lochdonhead – Lochdonhead Primary - Monday, January 31
Dervaig/Ulva – Ulva Primary - Tuesday, February 1
Lochnell/Barcaldine/Achaleven/Ardchattan – Victory Hall, Benderloch – Wednesday, January 26
The full approach to consultation can be found on the council’s website at https://www.education.ea.argyll-bute.sch.uk/schoolconsultations/documents/Annex_5-School_Estate_Consultation_Process_2010_CS.pdf. The timetable for consultation is as follows:
6 December 2010 Publish proposals and provide notice to all relevant
consultees
13 December 2010 Start statutory consultation period
24 February 2011 End of consultation period
10 March 2011 Forward to HMIE copies of the proposals, record of written
and oral submissions from consultation process and other relevant documents
7 April 2011 HMIE submit their report to the Council on all Proposals
28 April 2011 Council publishes the Consultation Report, covering
written and oral representations made during the consultation and matters raised in the HMIE report
19 May 2011 Authority can make formal decision to accept or reject
proposals. Six week period starts to allow representations to the ScottishGovernment (3 weeks) and for the Government to decide whether to call in the proposals or not (3 weeks).
30 June 2011 Period for representations to the Scottish Government and
possibility of call-in by the Scottish Government ends. Council can now implement any decisions taken with regard to the proposals.
Western Isles schools - closure plans 'Called In' by ministers
14/12/2010
Ministers have decided to 'call in' proposals by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to close two primary schools and end S1/2 provision at two further schools because of flaws in the Council's consultation process.
The proposals were part of plans by the council to close a total of eight primary schools and end S1/S2 provision at three.
The proposals that have been called in are:
* The closure of Carloway and Shelibost Primary Schools
* The closure of S1/S provision at Lionel and Shawbost Schools
The Council's decision to close six other primary schools and the S1/S2 provision at another school have not been called in as Ministers considered that the correct process, under the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010, had been followed.
Education Secretary Michael Russell said:
"I have taken the decision to call in four of the proposed eleven school closures in the Western Isles.
"Closure decisions must always be taken by those with the best knowledge of local circumstances and who are elected by and accountable to the local community.
"My role is not to retake a democratically taken decision but to ensure that a robust consultation process was properly followed and the educational benefits of these decisions are clear.
"I believe that the council has not properly considered the alternatives to closure, the likely effect on the local community and the transport arrangements in its consultations on these school closures. I therefore believe that the Council's consultation was flawed.
"I will now carefully consider all cases further and determine whether or not to grant consent to the closures as quickly as possible."
The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 sets out factors which councils must have special regard to before consulting on the closure of a rural school, which ensures that the closure of a rural school is a decision of last resort. Ministers concluded that in the case of these four proposals, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar had failed to sufficient consider these facts and that its consultations were therefore flawed.
The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 established a presumption against the closure of rural schools by ensuring that a decision to consult on a closure proposal can not be made until the local authority has explored all possible alternatives and assessed the likely implications of closure.
* A local authority must take 3 factors into account before proposing to close any rural school. These are:
* any viable alternative to closure
* the likely effect on the local community if the school were to close
* the likely effect of different travelling arrangements occasioned by the closure
Shelibost Primary School, Isle of Harris:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of this school as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, Ministers considered that insufficient consideration had been given to an alternative suggested by the West Harris Trust.
Carloway Primary School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effect on the local community of the school's closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
S1/S2 at Lionel School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effects of new travel arrangements required by the closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, they considered that the Council had given insufficient recognition to the effect of the travelling to the Nicolson Institute on younger pupils. Ministers also concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of the secondary provision at Lionel as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
S1/S2 at Shawbost School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effects of new travel arrangements required by the closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, they considered that the Council had given insufficient recognition to the effect of the travelling to the Nicolson Institute on younger pupils. Ministers also concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of the secondary provision at Shawbost as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
The primary school proposals not being called in relate to the closure of Balallan, Bragar, Cross, Sandwickhill, Scalpay and Stoneybridge Primaries. The other proposal that is not being called in is the closure of the S1/S2 provision at Daliburgh School. In these cases, the council has fulfilled its obligations under the Schools Consultation (Scotland) Act 2010 and can therefore proceed to implement its decisions to close.
Ministers have decided to 'call in' proposals by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to close two primary schools and end S1/2 provision at two further schools because of flaws in the Council's consultation process.
The proposals were part of plans by the council to close a total of eight primary schools and end S1/S2 provision at three.
The proposals that have been called in are:
* The closure of Carloway and Shelibost Primary Schools
* The closure of S1/S provision at Lionel and Shawbost Schools
The Council's decision to close six other primary schools and the S1/S2 provision at another school have not been called in as Ministers considered that the correct process, under the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010, had been followed.
Education Secretary Michael Russell said:
"I have taken the decision to call in four of the proposed eleven school closures in the Western Isles.
"Closure decisions must always be taken by those with the best knowledge of local circumstances and who are elected by and accountable to the local community.
"My role is not to retake a democratically taken decision but to ensure that a robust consultation process was properly followed and the educational benefits of these decisions are clear.
"I believe that the council has not properly considered the alternatives to closure, the likely effect on the local community and the transport arrangements in its consultations on these school closures. I therefore believe that the Council's consultation was flawed.
"I will now carefully consider all cases further and determine whether or not to grant consent to the closures as quickly as possible."
The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 sets out factors which councils must have special regard to before consulting on the closure of a rural school, which ensures that the closure of a rural school is a decision of last resort. Ministers concluded that in the case of these four proposals, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar had failed to sufficient consider these facts and that its consultations were therefore flawed.
The Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 established a presumption against the closure of rural schools by ensuring that a decision to consult on a closure proposal can not be made until the local authority has explored all possible alternatives and assessed the likely implications of closure.
* A local authority must take 3 factors into account before proposing to close any rural school. These are:
* any viable alternative to closure
* the likely effect on the local community if the school were to close
* the likely effect of different travelling arrangements occasioned by the closure
Shelibost Primary School, Isle of Harris:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of this school as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, Ministers considered that insufficient consideration had been given to an alternative suggested by the West Harris Trust.
Carloway Primary School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effect on the local community of the school's closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
S1/S2 at Lionel School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effects of new travel arrangements required by the closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, they considered that the Council had given insufficient recognition to the effect of the travelling to the Nicolson Institute on younger pupils. Ministers also concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of the secondary provision at Lionel as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
S1/S2 at Shawbost School, Isle of Lewis:
Ministers concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to the likely effects of new travel arrangements required by the closure as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed. In particular, they considered that the Council had given insufficient recognition to the effect of the travelling to the Nicolson Institute on younger pupils. Ministers also concluded that the Council had not had the level of regard to viable alternatives to the closure of the secondary provision at Shawbost as is required by the 2010 Act and that the consultation was therefore flawed.
The primary school proposals not being called in relate to the closure of Balallan, Bragar, Cross, Sandwickhill, Scalpay and Stoneybridge Primaries. The other proposal that is not being called in is the closure of the S1/S2 provision at Daliburgh School. In these cases, the council has fulfilled its obligations under the Schools Consultation (Scotland) Act 2010 and can therefore proceed to implement its decisions to close.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Saturday 25 December – Friday 31 December 2010
Title: A-U An Cuala Tu
An entertaining, informative and alphabetical trip through the BBC's song archive in the company of Mary Anne Kennedy with comments and opinions from musicians and fans alike.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Horo Ghealaidh / Celtic Music sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival drop in to give special, intimate performances at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's filmed in Glasgow and presented by Sarah Cruickshank. This week, Holly Williams, The Guidewires and Danish performers Helene Blum with Harald Haugaard. This is a unique opportunity to watch world-class artists up close, performing stripped down versions of their songs live on our sofa in a way you won't have seen them before.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Norman at Large
A classic archive treat with Norman MacLean and friends in cabaret.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 23:30
Title: SPL Hibs V Aberdeen
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hibs host Aberdeen at Easter Road.
Transmitted: Sunday 26th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Live Rugby - Glasgow v Edinburgh
Magners League action as Glasgow play host to Edinburgh in Scotland's biggest rugby derby.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Trusadh – The Pope’s visit
2010 saw the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Scotland - a visit that was not without its controversies after the recent scandals which rocked the position of the Catholic church globally.
This was the first time that the figurehead of the Catholic church had officially visited the country, and he's only the second Pope in history to visit, following Pope John Paul II's pastoral visit in 1982.
In 1982 John Archie MacMillan was a Catholic priest working in his island parish in Eriskay. However he left the priesthood five years later, disillusioned with the bureaucracy of the Church, and is now married with a family and working as a social worker. In a compelling personal journey he follows the build up to the visit, and attends the open air mass at Bellahouston Park, as he hears many different, fascinating views, and reflects on his own faith and the changing face of all Christianity in Scotland.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Fiddlers’ Bid
Fiddlers' Bid in concert. Shetland's master musicians return for a special concert at the renowned Shetland Folk Festival.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Soillse – Shakleton
An adventurer and wildlife photographer journey from the Falkland Isles via South Georgia to Antarctica and back up to South America - the same journey taken by the famous explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
They encounter the wildlife that lives there, and have a chance to gain a better understanding of the rich history that the whaling industry has in the region.
Transmitted: Wednesday 29th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: SPL St Mirren v Hearts
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as St Mirren host Hearts at St Mirren Park.
Transmitted: Wednesday 29th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh: Kenneth McKellar
Anne Lorne Gillies leads this celebration of arguably Scotland's greatest tenor - Kenneth McKellar who died earlier this year. McKellar's career which spanned 50 years saw him rise to be a household name in Scotland and beyond, but behind the public persona was a quiet man who regularly spurned personal honours and accolades.
Although McKellar never sung in Gaelic, through singing he had an affinity with the language and was always meticulous about ensuring any Gaelic words in his songs were pronounced perfectly, reflecting his love and affection for his native country and all that it was.
Humour was also a big part of McKellar's life and a script he wrote was used in a Monty Python sketch, indeed he became the only person outside the Monty Python team to have a sketch performed by them. He wrote many popular comedy songs like 'The Midges' and formed a comedy duo with Johnny Beattie.
The definitive interpreter of the songs of Robert Burns, McKellar also composed 'Royal Mile', the song which opened the 1986 Edinburgh Commonwealth Games. And when his voice began to falter with age, he bowed out gracefully from his singing career to become an acclaimed arranger.
Bill Innes, who presented Radio nan Gàidheal's opera music show, Abair Aria, was a big fan, and doesn't think Scotland recognised his vocal talents. Indeed McKellar was arguably a bigger star, and some would say more appreciated in countries such as Canada and Australia.
Transmitted: Thursday 30th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Donny B: The Original King of Daytime
The inspirational story of the writer and broadcaster, Donny B Macleod, one that took him from a small Hebridean town to the Hollywood homes of the rich and famous.
It delves into the rich archive of Donny's work, both film and writing, and also looks at the fascinating life he led before becoming a broadcaster - including a famous, charisma fuelled, general election campaign.
Narrated by Patsi Mackenzie and featuring contributions from family, celebrity friends and colleagues.
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Biadhna nan Oran: Year of Song
Morag MacDonald presents 'A' Comharrachadh Bliadhna nan Òran' (Celebrating the Year of Song) BBC ALBA brings together beautiful and varied performances from specially made shows shown in the last twelve months to mark the Year of Song - from Seudan a' Chuain - the concert which launched Year of Song during Celtic Connections, the Na h-Òganaich documentary, Tìr nan Òran, Blas and the Royal National Caithness Mod. Also, we reveal the song of the year as voted for by the public from the 12 most notable Gaelic songs, selected from over 365 songs.
These songs and many more are available on the dedicated Year of Song website www.bbc.co.uk/alba/oran
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Bliadhna Mhath Ur: Hogmanay Ceilidh
John Carmichael and local Uist 'lass' Seasaidh Lexy are throwing open the doors of Polochar Inn, South Uist for a live Hogmanay cèilidh - Cèilidh na Bliadhn' Ùire 2010 to say farewell to 2010 and a big Gaelic fàilte (welcome) to 2011. Joining in the party celebrations is a wealth of Gaelic singers and Gàidhealach musicians: internationally renowned singer Cathy Ann MacPhee, will be travelling from Canada to join in the party; Christine Primrose flies the flag for Lewis and Skye; and local Uist singers Paul McCallum, Gillebride MacMillan and Linda MacLeod will be joining in. Mànran, fronted by Norrie MacIver and Gary Innes is the house band and local musicians Na Deasaich, Iain MacDonald, John Alex MacKay & Seonaidh MacIntyre will be raising the roof with their cèilidh sets.
Also, several stars from the world of Gaelic broadcasting will appear with special messages. And renowned broadcaster Morag MacDonald makes a guest appearance to share her thoughts on the year-long 'Year of Song' event and as ever, Seasaidh Lexy will be doing a 'turn.' We hope to have a live first foot with BBC Scotland's Hogmanay show to wish a Happy New Year to Jackie Bird, Phil Cunningham and their guests.
The Uists are the perfect location for an informal and lively cèilidh, and a warm welcome and musical festival awaits from John, Seasaidh, our audience and guests, live in Polochar. Fàilte oirbh uile!
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 23:30
An entertaining, informative and alphabetical trip through the BBC's song archive in the company of Mary Anne Kennedy with comments and opinions from musicians and fans alike.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Horo Ghealaidh / Celtic Music sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival drop in to give special, intimate performances at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's filmed in Glasgow and presented by Sarah Cruickshank. This week, Holly Williams, The Guidewires and Danish performers Helene Blum with Harald Haugaard. This is a unique opportunity to watch world-class artists up close, performing stripped down versions of their songs live on our sofa in a way you won't have seen them before.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Norman at Large
A classic archive treat with Norman MacLean and friends in cabaret.
Transmitted: Saturday 25th December 2010
Time: 23:30
Title: SPL Hibs V Aberdeen
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hibs host Aberdeen at Easter Road.
Transmitted: Sunday 26th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Live Rugby - Glasgow v Edinburgh
Magners League action as Glasgow play host to Edinburgh in Scotland's biggest rugby derby.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Trusadh – The Pope’s visit
2010 saw the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Scotland - a visit that was not without its controversies after the recent scandals which rocked the position of the Catholic church globally.
This was the first time that the figurehead of the Catholic church had officially visited the country, and he's only the second Pope in history to visit, following Pope John Paul II's pastoral visit in 1982.
In 1982 John Archie MacMillan was a Catholic priest working in his island parish in Eriskay. However he left the priesthood five years later, disillusioned with the bureaucracy of the Church, and is now married with a family and working as a social worker. In a compelling personal journey he follows the build up to the visit, and attends the open air mass at Bellahouston Park, as he hears many different, fascinating views, and reflects on his own faith and the changing face of all Christianity in Scotland.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Fiddlers’ Bid
Fiddlers' Bid in concert. Shetland's master musicians return for a special concert at the renowned Shetland Folk Festival.
Transmitted: Monday 27th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Soillse – Shakleton
An adventurer and wildlife photographer journey from the Falkland Isles via South Georgia to Antarctica and back up to South America - the same journey taken by the famous explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
They encounter the wildlife that lives there, and have a chance to gain a better understanding of the rich history that the whaling industry has in the region.
Transmitted: Wednesday 29th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: SPL St Mirren v Hearts
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as St Mirren host Hearts at St Mirren Park.
Transmitted: Wednesday 29th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Trusadh: Kenneth McKellar
Anne Lorne Gillies leads this celebration of arguably Scotland's greatest tenor - Kenneth McKellar who died earlier this year. McKellar's career which spanned 50 years saw him rise to be a household name in Scotland and beyond, but behind the public persona was a quiet man who regularly spurned personal honours and accolades.
Although McKellar never sung in Gaelic, through singing he had an affinity with the language and was always meticulous about ensuring any Gaelic words in his songs were pronounced perfectly, reflecting his love and affection for his native country and all that it was.
Humour was also a big part of McKellar's life and a script he wrote was used in a Monty Python sketch, indeed he became the only person outside the Monty Python team to have a sketch performed by them. He wrote many popular comedy songs like 'The Midges' and formed a comedy duo with Johnny Beattie.
The definitive interpreter of the songs of Robert Burns, McKellar also composed 'Royal Mile', the song which opened the 1986 Edinburgh Commonwealth Games. And when his voice began to falter with age, he bowed out gracefully from his singing career to become an acclaimed arranger.
Bill Innes, who presented Radio nan Gàidheal's opera music show, Abair Aria, was a big fan, and doesn't think Scotland recognised his vocal talents. Indeed McKellar was arguably a bigger star, and some would say more appreciated in countries such as Canada and Australia.
Transmitted: Thursday 30th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Donny B: The Original King of Daytime
The inspirational story of the writer and broadcaster, Donny B Macleod, one that took him from a small Hebridean town to the Hollywood homes of the rich and famous.
It delves into the rich archive of Donny's work, both film and writing, and also looks at the fascinating life he led before becoming a broadcaster - including a famous, charisma fuelled, general election campaign.
Narrated by Patsi Mackenzie and featuring contributions from family, celebrity friends and colleagues.
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Biadhna nan Oran: Year of Song
Morag MacDonald presents 'A' Comharrachadh Bliadhna nan Òran' (Celebrating the Year of Song) BBC ALBA brings together beautiful and varied performances from specially made shows shown in the last twelve months to mark the Year of Song - from Seudan a' Chuain - the concert which launched Year of Song during Celtic Connections, the Na h-Òganaich documentary, Tìr nan Òran, Blas and the Royal National Caithness Mod. Also, we reveal the song of the year as voted for by the public from the 12 most notable Gaelic songs, selected from over 365 songs.
These songs and many more are available on the dedicated Year of Song website www.bbc.co.uk/alba/oran
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Bliadhna Mhath Ur: Hogmanay Ceilidh
John Carmichael and local Uist 'lass' Seasaidh Lexy are throwing open the doors of Polochar Inn, South Uist for a live Hogmanay cèilidh - Cèilidh na Bliadhn' Ùire 2010 to say farewell to 2010 and a big Gaelic fàilte (welcome) to 2011. Joining in the party celebrations is a wealth of Gaelic singers and Gàidhealach musicians: internationally renowned singer Cathy Ann MacPhee, will be travelling from Canada to join in the party; Christine Primrose flies the flag for Lewis and Skye; and local Uist singers Paul McCallum, Gillebride MacMillan and Linda MacLeod will be joining in. Mànran, fronted by Norrie MacIver and Gary Innes is the house band and local musicians Na Deasaich, Iain MacDonald, John Alex MacKay & Seonaidh MacIntyre will be raising the roof with their cèilidh sets.
Also, several stars from the world of Gaelic broadcasting will appear with special messages. And renowned broadcaster Morag MacDonald makes a guest appearance to share her thoughts on the year-long 'Year of Song' event and as ever, Seasaidh Lexy will be doing a 'turn.' We hope to have a live first foot with BBC Scotland's Hogmanay show to wish a Happy New Year to Jackie Bird, Phil Cunningham and their guests.
The Uists are the perfect location for an informal and lively cèilidh, and a warm welcome and musical festival awaits from John, Seasaidh, our audience and guests, live in Polochar. Fàilte oirbh uile!
Transmitted: Wednesday 31st December 2010
Time: 23:30
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
NFUS says "WEATHER CONTINUES TO TAKE ITS TOLL ON FARMS"
Union working to get fuel, feed and livestock moving
Heavy snow continues to disrupt Scottish farming with reports that more than 50 farm buildings around the country have now come down under the weight of snow.
As farmers work hard to provide feed, water and shelter to their stock, the Union urges them to make sure that safety for themselves, family and staff must remain a priority.
To help keep farms running, discussions between NFU Scotland and Scottish Government have already helped secure a temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours and working-time rules for hauliers involved directly in the distribution of animal feed and fuel oil. The Union would like to see a general relaxation introduced that would also assist those involved in livestock haulage – a vital concession as we run into the important Christmas period.
While fuel supplies are, by-in-large available, distribution of red diesel and heating oil to farms is a growing concern and NFUS is urging members to contact fuel suppliers to investigate if central distribution points at which fuel can be collected are feasible. Such fuel collection stations are already operating in parts of the Borders.
NFU Scotland’s Chief Executive James Withers said:
“With little respite from the weather likely until the end of the week, our focus is on helping farming families deal with the weather by getting vital feed and fuel through to them. At the same time, we are working hard with Scottish Government on how we can keep Scotland’s food and farming industries running.
“The news that many buildings are collapsing under the volume of snow is a huge concern and while we urge farmers to be vigilant, safety must be the priority. Clearing snow from roofs must only be considered if it can be done in a safe and responsible manner. If not, then farmers must not place themselves or their staff in danger.
“With a significant number of sheds now damaged, many will be seeking temporary accommodation for stock. Local machinery rings have been helpful in putting farmers needing space for cattle in touch with those with empty livestock sheds available. For those needing to erect temporary shelter, we are encouraging planning inspectors at local authorities to be pragmatic when it comes to putting up emergency sheds.
“Getting animal feed and fuel delivered has been given a boost by the extension to drivers’ hours agreed at the end of last week. To get our livestock moving to markets and abattoirs in the run up to the crucial Christmas period, we need livestock haulage to be included in the derogation and are speaking to the Scottish Government about this.
“On many farms, fuel for heating and machinery is running out. We would urge anyone in this position to contact your fuel supplier and enquire if collection from a local distribution point is possible. Such a scheme is already operating in parts of the Borders and could provide vital relief.
“For those toiling in the conditions, I urge them to remember that they are not alone. Neighbours, friends and family are often more than willing to help and the Union itself has a network of members, secretaries and staff happy to assist where possible.”
Heavy snow continues to disrupt Scottish farming with reports that more than 50 farm buildings around the country have now come down under the weight of snow.
As farmers work hard to provide feed, water and shelter to their stock, the Union urges them to make sure that safety for themselves, family and staff must remain a priority.
To help keep farms running, discussions between NFU Scotland and Scottish Government have already helped secure a temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours and working-time rules for hauliers involved directly in the distribution of animal feed and fuel oil. The Union would like to see a general relaxation introduced that would also assist those involved in livestock haulage – a vital concession as we run into the important Christmas period.
While fuel supplies are, by-in-large available, distribution of red diesel and heating oil to farms is a growing concern and NFUS is urging members to contact fuel suppliers to investigate if central distribution points at which fuel can be collected are feasible. Such fuel collection stations are already operating in parts of the Borders.
NFU Scotland’s Chief Executive James Withers said:
“With little respite from the weather likely until the end of the week, our focus is on helping farming families deal with the weather by getting vital feed and fuel through to them. At the same time, we are working hard with Scottish Government on how we can keep Scotland’s food and farming industries running.
“The news that many buildings are collapsing under the volume of snow is a huge concern and while we urge farmers to be vigilant, safety must be the priority. Clearing snow from roofs must only be considered if it can be done in a safe and responsible manner. If not, then farmers must not place themselves or their staff in danger.
“With a significant number of sheds now damaged, many will be seeking temporary accommodation for stock. Local machinery rings have been helpful in putting farmers needing space for cattle in touch with those with empty livestock sheds available. For those needing to erect temporary shelter, we are encouraging planning inspectors at local authorities to be pragmatic when it comes to putting up emergency sheds.
“Getting animal feed and fuel delivered has been given a boost by the extension to drivers’ hours agreed at the end of last week. To get our livestock moving to markets and abattoirs in the run up to the crucial Christmas period, we need livestock haulage to be included in the derogation and are speaking to the Scottish Government about this.
“On many farms, fuel for heating and machinery is running out. We would urge anyone in this position to contact your fuel supplier and enquire if collection from a local distribution point is possible. Such a scheme is already operating in parts of the Borders and could provide vital relief.
“For those toiling in the conditions, I urge them to remember that they are not alone. Neighbours, friends and family are often more than willing to help and the Union itself has a network of members, secretaries and staff happy to assist where possible.”
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Saturday 18 December – Friday 24 December 2010
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean
Two new cooks join Cathy MacDonald in the kitchen to see if they can impress Cathy and her guest with their culinary creations.
Transmitted: Monday 20th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Murtairean - Gun Ainm
The story of notorious 1960s killer Bible John, who after more than 40 years remains unidentified.
Transmitted: Thursday 23rd December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Trusadh - Orain Ura - An Gairm
In this the 'Year of Song', we take a look at where Gaelic song is in 2010, and explore what lies ahead for one of the richest pillars of the Gaelic language, and Scottish culture?
From the prolific household bards of the clan chiefs, through countless Mods - and to the stadium-rock stage, Gaelic song has had some exciting evolutions in its 300 plus years in known history. Recent times though have seen little original material being written.
Is that all about to change though? What part could the recent rise of the Scottish traditional music scene play? Have initiatives like the Nòs Ùr and Rapal song competitions contributed to a new generation of bands and singers writing in new, innovative, contemporary styles in Gaelic? Is this indeed the dawn of a new era in Gaelic song?
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Spors na Bliadhna/Sports Review 2010
Review of what's been happening in the world of sport in the past year, including a look back at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 10:00pm
Title: Seirbheis Nollaig/Christmas Service
Join us this Christmas Eve for a very special ecumenical service from Portree Parish Church, Isle of Skye. Rev John M. MacDonald (Church of Scotland) will lead the service, with readings and prayers from Rev Christoper MacRae (Free Church) and Father James MacNeil (Catholic Church).
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 11:00pm
Two new cooks join Cathy MacDonald in the kitchen to see if they can impress Cathy and her guest with their culinary creations.
Transmitted: Monday 20th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Murtairean - Gun Ainm
The story of notorious 1960s killer Bible John, who after more than 40 years remains unidentified.
Transmitted: Thursday 23rd December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Trusadh - Orain Ura - An Gairm
In this the 'Year of Song', we take a look at where Gaelic song is in 2010, and explore what lies ahead for one of the richest pillars of the Gaelic language, and Scottish culture?
From the prolific household bards of the clan chiefs, through countless Mods - and to the stadium-rock stage, Gaelic song has had some exciting evolutions in its 300 plus years in known history. Recent times though have seen little original material being written.
Is that all about to change though? What part could the recent rise of the Scottish traditional music scene play? Have initiatives like the Nòs Ùr and Rapal song competitions contributed to a new generation of bands and singers writing in new, innovative, contemporary styles in Gaelic? Is this indeed the dawn of a new era in Gaelic song?
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Spors na Bliadhna/Sports Review 2010
Review of what's been happening in the world of sport in the past year, including a look back at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 10:00pm
Title: Seirbheis Nollaig/Christmas Service
Join us this Christmas Eve for a very special ecumenical service from Portree Parish Church, Isle of Skye. Rev John M. MacDonald (Church of Scotland) will lead the service, with readings and prayers from Rev Christoper MacRae (Free Church) and Father James MacNeil (Catholic Church).
Transmitted: Friday 24th December 2010
Time: 11:00pm
Jamie McGrigor’s speech in last Thursday’s Stage 1 Parliamentary debate on the Wildlife & Natural Environment Bill.
Jamie McGrigor (Highlands and Islands) (Con): I am delighted to sum up in this debate. It is vital that we get the bill right for those men and women who work in the hills and glens and keep them well managed, even when, as now, they are hindered by several feet of snowdrifts while we sit cosily in the chamber. They are straightforward, tough people—the very salt of Scotland's earth—and they deserve a fair deal.
The minister said that she had listened to many people from different walks of life. Well done to her for that, and well done also for recognising the importance of this sector of rural life. She has listened to people who do not often get heard and who do not get heard often enough.
I thank my friend John Scott and other members of the Rural Affairs and Environment Committee, as well as the committee clerking team, for a thorough stage 1 report, which has informed today's debate. Much of the debate has focused on wildlife crime and, as John Scott set out, we believe—like Bill Wilson—that the argument has not been made convincingly that single witness evidence should apply on this issue. Rather, as Sheriff Drummond suggested when he gave evidence, the focus should be on the collection of solid evidence. Given that the evidence to the committee suggested that it was incredibly rare for someone to be prosecuted for an offence of egg stealing on the evidence of a single witness, it surely is illogical to extend single witness evidence to other wildlife crime. Such a move might even open up the door to frame-ups. Surely law is good only if it works to stop crime.
Likewise, the Scottish Conservatives have serious worries about the Government's intention to introduce vicarious liability at stage 2, because we again pay heed to the words of Sheriff Drummond, an expert on wildlife crime, who said:
"There are so many ways round it. Vicarious liability has been floated as some kind of answer. It is not an answer".—[Official Report, Rural Affairs and Environment Committee, 15 September 2010; c 3104.]
Much legislation already exists, and we should surely concentrate on achieving better enforcement of current laws before adding additional measures to the statute book. In other words, we should tighten up existing laws and ensure that they work against wildlife crime.
Snaring is another subject that many members have raised. I am well aware of the strong feelings about snaring—indeed, I, too, have strong feelings about it—and I welcome the committee's balanced conclusions on it. Its report states:
"the Committee also acknowledges that pest control is a vital part of land management and that, if properly regulated and managed, limited and appropriate use of snares should continue to be an option for land managers in Scotland."
As Bert Burnett of the Scottish Gamekeepers Association said this week, the majority of practitioners are already highly skilled, and they have welcomed the tightening of snaring regulations and demonstrated a clear willingness to meet modern expectations by signing up for detailed practical and written training in order to meet the highest welfare standards.To many of my constituents in the Highlands and Islands, snares remain a vital tool in controlling escalating fox numbers, which can do much damage to our populations of rare waders and ground-nesting birds as well as to valuable game birds, not to mention the lambs on numerous sheep farms throughout the Highlands. At this point, I suppose that I had better refer members to my agricultural interests in the register of members' interests.
On game management, we are happy to welcome the modernisation of game law and the abolition of game licences. The bill will also repeal the restriction on selling game at certain times of the year by amending section 4 of the Game Act 1831, which was aimed at stopping the killing of game birds and hares during closed seasons. Refrigeration now means that game that has been killed in the open season can be kept and sold throughout the year. I hope that the bill will open up more marketing opportunities for those who wish to sell Scottish game in restaurants and shops all year round.
The SRPBA is right to argue that any future changes to the list of game species must be subject to full parliamentary scrutiny. I strongly support the committee's call for any proposed removals from the game species list to be subject to affirmative rather than negative procedure, which would mean that any proposals would be voted on.
More generally, I welcome the Government's and the committee's recognition that shooting and red deer stalking are of real economic importance to many areas of Scotland. That is especially so in the Highlands, where the income from country sports provides work for gamekeepers and numerous other jobs associated with them.
I want to put on record my support for the wildlife estates Scotland initiative, which I was pleased to see the minister launch at Colquhalzie in Perthshire on 23 November. Everyone involved in that initiative is to be commended. I know that those people will step up to the mark in showing to the public that our Scottish country estates are integral to protecting and preserving our natural environment. The pilot scheme will run in the Cairngorms national park area, and will doubtless be reviewed regularly. The scheme is not, as some have suggested, some sort of voluntary licensing scheme; it is a voluntary accreditation scheme in which the code of acceptable good practice that everybody should follow will be set out.
Finally, Bill Wilson referred to bees. He may know that the bees in many hives in Scotland stopped breeding in September because they knew that bad weather was coming. That shows that a bee is better than the BBC at weather forecasting.
The Scottish Conservatives are happy to support the general principles of the bill, and we welcome the fact that many of the concerns that existed, particularly relating to deer management, have been dealt with.
The minister said that she had listened to many people from different walks of life. Well done to her for that, and well done also for recognising the importance of this sector of rural life. She has listened to people who do not often get heard and who do not get heard often enough.
I thank my friend John Scott and other members of the Rural Affairs and Environment Committee, as well as the committee clerking team, for a thorough stage 1 report, which has informed today's debate. Much of the debate has focused on wildlife crime and, as John Scott set out, we believe—like Bill Wilson—that the argument has not been made convincingly that single witness evidence should apply on this issue. Rather, as Sheriff Drummond suggested when he gave evidence, the focus should be on the collection of solid evidence. Given that the evidence to the committee suggested that it was incredibly rare for someone to be prosecuted for an offence of egg stealing on the evidence of a single witness, it surely is illogical to extend single witness evidence to other wildlife crime. Such a move might even open up the door to frame-ups. Surely law is good only if it works to stop crime.
Likewise, the Scottish Conservatives have serious worries about the Government's intention to introduce vicarious liability at stage 2, because we again pay heed to the words of Sheriff Drummond, an expert on wildlife crime, who said:
"There are so many ways round it. Vicarious liability has been floated as some kind of answer. It is not an answer".—[Official Report, Rural Affairs and Environment Committee, 15 September 2010; c 3104.]
Much legislation already exists, and we should surely concentrate on achieving better enforcement of current laws before adding additional measures to the statute book. In other words, we should tighten up existing laws and ensure that they work against wildlife crime.
Snaring is another subject that many members have raised. I am well aware of the strong feelings about snaring—indeed, I, too, have strong feelings about it—and I welcome the committee's balanced conclusions on it. Its report states:
"the Committee also acknowledges that pest control is a vital part of land management and that, if properly regulated and managed, limited and appropriate use of snares should continue to be an option for land managers in Scotland."
As Bert Burnett of the Scottish Gamekeepers Association said this week, the majority of practitioners are already highly skilled, and they have welcomed the tightening of snaring regulations and demonstrated a clear willingness to meet modern expectations by signing up for detailed practical and written training in order to meet the highest welfare standards.To many of my constituents in the Highlands and Islands, snares remain a vital tool in controlling escalating fox numbers, which can do much damage to our populations of rare waders and ground-nesting birds as well as to valuable game birds, not to mention the lambs on numerous sheep farms throughout the Highlands. At this point, I suppose that I had better refer members to my agricultural interests in the register of members' interests.
On game management, we are happy to welcome the modernisation of game law and the abolition of game licences. The bill will also repeal the restriction on selling game at certain times of the year by amending section 4 of the Game Act 1831, which was aimed at stopping the killing of game birds and hares during closed seasons. Refrigeration now means that game that has been killed in the open season can be kept and sold throughout the year. I hope that the bill will open up more marketing opportunities for those who wish to sell Scottish game in restaurants and shops all year round.
The SRPBA is right to argue that any future changes to the list of game species must be subject to full parliamentary scrutiny. I strongly support the committee's call for any proposed removals from the game species list to be subject to affirmative rather than negative procedure, which would mean that any proposals would be voted on.
More generally, I welcome the Government's and the committee's recognition that shooting and red deer stalking are of real economic importance to many areas of Scotland. That is especially so in the Highlands, where the income from country sports provides work for gamekeepers and numerous other jobs associated with them.
I want to put on record my support for the wildlife estates Scotland initiative, which I was pleased to see the minister launch at Colquhalzie in Perthshire on 23 November. Everyone involved in that initiative is to be commended. I know that those people will step up to the mark in showing to the public that our Scottish country estates are integral to protecting and preserving our natural environment. The pilot scheme will run in the Cairngorms national park area, and will doubtless be reviewed regularly. The scheme is not, as some have suggested, some sort of voluntary licensing scheme; it is a voluntary accreditation scheme in which the code of acceptable good practice that everybody should follow will be set out.
Finally, Bill Wilson referred to bees. He may know that the bees in many hives in Scotland stopped breeding in September because they knew that bad weather was coming. That shows that a bee is better than the BBC at weather forecasting.
The Scottish Conservatives are happy to support the general principles of the bill, and we welcome the fact that many of the concerns that existed, particularly relating to deer management, have been dealt with.
Friday, 3 December 2010
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL SERVICE REVIEW - PREFERRED OPTIONS FOR BUDGET REDUCTIONS
The figures are the total savings expected in each service area
Children's Services
Reorganisation of Fusions/GIRFEC £268,807
Restructuring of children's units £387,587
Reorganisation and restructuring of grant processes £90,534
School and Public Transport
Reduction to local transport and community grants, whilst retaining and element of both £526,440
Review of procurement process £819,820
Regulatory Services
Reducing scope for duplication in debt counselling £32,537
Improving levels of cost recovery within Regulatory Services £3,000
Roads Operations
Reduced level of maintenance service and associated reduction in operational staff £500,000
Discontinue winter street lighting scouting £5,000
Economic Development
Reduction of funding to third parties including Visit Scotland £118,500
Leisure
Transfer halls to community trusts £122,492
Closure of Cardross Library £19,194
Closure of Rosneath Library £12,815
Closure of Tarbert Library £11,320
Non-provision of Lorn Mobile Library £32,826
Reduction of grants to community swimming pools £15,000
Catering, Cleaning and Janitorial
Combine and centralise usage of schools during holiday periods £0
Withdraw from provision of steward and cleaning services to community centres £194,000
Reduce the specification of cleaning service in schools to produce a 20% reduction in staff hours £155,150
Reduce the specification of cleaning service in offices to produce a 20% reduction in staff hours £77,661
Reduce the food cost of the primary meal £16,767
Remove the free fruit offered to Primary 1 and 2 pupils (Fruit will continue to be offered at lunch time as part of the school meal provision) £49,000
Increase price of primary school meal by 15p per day £23,136
Increase price of secondary school meal by 15p per day £17,814
Waste Management
Either residual waste transfer from islands (Islay and Mull) for treatment/disposal, or a pre-treatment process on the islands to recover recyclate and reduce the mass of waste sent to landfill £0
Improve recycling performance and productivity from 3rd sector community recycling partners. £21,037
Introduction of alternate weekly comingled waste collection to all households in the PPP area to target paper, card, dense plastics and metals on an "Opt Out" basis. Residual waste will move to alternate weekly to accommodate the commingled collection. £611,373
Separate collection of commercial waste in the PPP area. £0
Procurement of new contract for treatment / disposal of residual waste in Helensburgh and Lomond by 2012. £86,112
Potential introduction of segregated food waste collections in the islands and PPP area and separate collections of glass in the PPP area. £0
Total £4,217,922
The figures are the total savings expected in each service area
Children's Services
Reorganisation of Fusions/GIRFEC £268,807
Restructuring of children's units £387,587
Reorganisation and restructuring of grant processes £90,534
School and Public Transport
Reduction to local transport and community grants, whilst retaining and element of both £526,440
Review of procurement process £819,820
Regulatory Services
Reducing scope for duplication in debt counselling £32,537
Improving levels of cost recovery within Regulatory Services £3,000
Roads Operations
Reduced level of maintenance service and associated reduction in operational staff £500,000
Discontinue winter street lighting scouting £5,000
Economic Development
Reduction of funding to third parties including Visit Scotland £118,500
Leisure
Transfer halls to community trusts £122,492
Closure of Cardross Library £19,194
Closure of Rosneath Library £12,815
Closure of Tarbert Library £11,320
Non-provision of Lorn Mobile Library £32,826
Reduction of grants to community swimming pools £15,000
Catering, Cleaning and Janitorial
Combine and centralise usage of schools during holiday periods £0
Withdraw from provision of steward and cleaning services to community centres £194,000
Reduce the specification of cleaning service in schools to produce a 20% reduction in staff hours £155,150
Reduce the specification of cleaning service in offices to produce a 20% reduction in staff hours £77,661
Reduce the food cost of the primary meal £16,767
Remove the free fruit offered to Primary 1 and 2 pupils (Fruit will continue to be offered at lunch time as part of the school meal provision) £49,000
Increase price of primary school meal by 15p per day £23,136
Increase price of secondary school meal by 15p per day £17,814
Waste Management
Either residual waste transfer from islands (Islay and Mull) for treatment/disposal, or a pre-treatment process on the islands to recover recyclate and reduce the mass of waste sent to landfill £0
Improve recycling performance and productivity from 3rd sector community recycling partners. £21,037
Introduction of alternate weekly comingled waste collection to all households in the PPP area to target paper, card, dense plastics and metals on an "Opt Out" basis. Residual waste will move to alternate weekly to accommodate the commingled collection. £611,373
Separate collection of commercial waste in the PPP area. £0
Procurement of new contract for treatment / disposal of residual waste in Helensburgh and Lomond by 2012. £86,112
Potential introduction of segregated food waste collections in the islands and PPP area and separate collections of glass in the PPP area. £0
Total £4,217,922
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday 11 December – Friday 17 December 2010
Title: SPL Hearts v Aberdeen
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hearts host Aberdeen at Tynecastle.
Transmitted: Saturday 11th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Piping Live
Julie Fowlis presents highlights from the Piping Live festival in Glasgow. Pipers from far and wide plus Treacherous Orchestra in concert.
Transmitted: Saturday 11th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean
Two new cooks are in the kitchen trying to impress Cathy MacDonald and her guest.
Transmitted: Monday 13th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Trusadh – The Wee Grey Fergie
The Ferguson TE20 has been an iconic part of world farming for over 70 years. Fondly nicknamed as the "Grey Fergie", the TE20 was the inspiration and invention of Irish Inventor Harry Ferguson, the son of an Irish farmer, tired of the heavy, cumbersome work of the horse drawn plough.
But what do we really know of Harry Ferguson and why has the Grey Fergie become the much loved icon that it is and how, after so many years, is still used daily on farms and crofts around the world? Allan Campbell takes us on a journey to find out.
Transmitted: Monday 13th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 15th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: SPL Hearts v Aberdeen
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hearts host Aberdeen at Tynecastle.
Transmitted: Saturday 11th December 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Piping Live
Julie Fowlis presents highlights from the Piping Live festival in Glasgow. Pipers from far and wide plus Treacherous Orchestra in concert.
Transmitted: Saturday 11th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean
Two new cooks are in the kitchen trying to impress Cathy MacDonald and her guest.
Transmitted: Monday 13th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Trusadh – The Wee Grey Fergie
The Ferguson TE20 has been an iconic part of world farming for over 70 years. Fondly nicknamed as the "Grey Fergie", the TE20 was the inspiration and invention of Irish Inventor Harry Ferguson, the son of an Irish farmer, tired of the heavy, cumbersome work of the horse drawn plough.
But what do we really know of Harry Ferguson and why has the Grey Fergie become the much loved icon that it is and how, after so many years, is still used daily on farms and crofts around the world? Allan Campbell takes us on a journey to find out.
Transmitted: Monday 13th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 15th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Monday, 29 November 2010
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday 4 December – Friday 10 December 2010
Title: Live Rugby - Ospreys v Edinburgh
Live Magners League coverage as Edinburgh travel to face Ospreys at the Liberty Stadium.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 18:25
Title: SPL Motherwell v Kilmarnock
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Motherwell host Kilmarnock at Fir Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Piping Live
Julie Fowlis presents a stellar musical cast from Piping Live, with Breabach taking to the stage.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 22:30
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean
Join Cathy MacDonald and see the delights in the Còcaire nan Còcairean kitchen.
Transmitted: Monday 6th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Na Trads / Trad awards
Trad Awards 2010 - traditional music's night of the year. The best of Scottish Trad music gathers at Perth Royal Concert Hall, for
a night of gongs and great music.
Transmitted: Monday 6th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 8th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Air an Rathad
In the last of the series, Calum Iain has a taste of the Big Apple...in Inverurie! There he meets up with the Moray Muscle Group, a bunch of people who are obsessed with classic American 'muscle cars'. He even gets the chance to flex his biceps behind the wheel of the original 1950's Capri.
Fiona meets some of the fastest Go-Kart drivers in the UK at the Grampian Kart Club. She doesn't take much persuading to strap in and burn some rubber on the club’s super fast circuit near Banff.
Fiona also takes a close look at the sensuous curves of Peugeot's new RCZ. Will it mark a return to form for the French company, after several years of lacklustre models?
And it's the final race of the series - who will win the coveted Wacky Races Cup?
Transmitted: Thursday 9th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Live Rugby - Ospreys v Edinburgh
Live Magners League coverage as Edinburgh travel to face Ospreys at the Liberty Stadium.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 18:25
Title: SPL Motherwell v Kilmarnock
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Motherwell host Kilmarnock at Fir Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Piping Live
Julie Fowlis presents a stellar musical cast from Piping Live, with Breabach taking to the stage.
Transmitted: Saturday 4th December 2010
Time: 22:30
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean
Join Cathy MacDonald and see the delights in the Còcaire nan Còcairean kitchen.
Transmitted: Monday 6th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Na Trads / Trad awards
Trad Awards 2010 - traditional music's night of the year. The best of Scottish Trad music gathers at Perth Royal Concert Hall, for
a night of gongs and great music.
Transmitted: Monday 6th December 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 8th December 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Air an Rathad
In the last of the series, Calum Iain has a taste of the Big Apple...in Inverurie! There he meets up with the Moray Muscle Group, a bunch of people who are obsessed with classic American 'muscle cars'. He even gets the chance to flex his biceps behind the wheel of the original 1950's Capri.
Fiona meets some of the fastest Go-Kart drivers in the UK at the Grampian Kart Club. She doesn't take much persuading to strap in and burn some rubber on the club’s super fast circuit near Banff.
Fiona also takes a close look at the sensuous curves of Peugeot's new RCZ. Will it mark a return to form for the French company, after several years of lacklustre models?
And it's the final race of the series - who will win the coveted Wacky Races Cup?
Transmitted: Thursday 9th December 2010
Time: 22:00
Thursday, 18 November 2010
POSTAL PRIVATISATION DANGERS HIGHLIGHTED -MATHER
.Jim Mather, MSP Argyll & Bute has welcomed the intervention of his
colleague, Mike Weir, MP, who speaks for the party at Westminster on
Business and Enterprise, for his comments on the dangers for rural areas
of the threats to the continuity of services from privatisation
proposals for the Royal Mail.
Jim Mather said:
"The maintenance of a comprehensive mail delivery service is essential
for Scotland and this can only be achieved by maintaining the company in
public ownership. We have already seen the chaos that has overtaken the
Post Office network as soon as the announcement was made and the
headlong rush towards "liberalisation "started.
The first warning was the massive increase in postal letter charges; a
rise that is seen as an inducement to potential buyers but one that is
likely to affect small business users who are unable to facilitate
quantity discounting and small and isolated rural users who are
dependent on postal services for communication and supplies. These are
areas that have already been severely affected by earlier closures in
local amenities.
With privatisation there can be little doubt that a fully privatised
Royal Mail -will we still call it that - will seek to further reduce the
present Universal Service Obligation, that presently guarantees a level
postal charging structure and delivery service across the country. That
principle has already been breached for parcel delivery services that
are deemed to be "remote" from larger conurbations. When that USO is
depleted rural communities will inevitably suffer.
The Royal Mail is not just another company to be hived off for a quick
fix. It provides essential services, especially to smaller communities
and small businesses"
colleague, Mike Weir, MP, who speaks for the party at Westminster on
Business and Enterprise, for his comments on the dangers for rural areas
of the threats to the continuity of services from privatisation
proposals for the Royal Mail.
Jim Mather said:
"The maintenance of a comprehensive mail delivery service is essential
for Scotland and this can only be achieved by maintaining the company in
public ownership. We have already seen the chaos that has overtaken the
Post Office network as soon as the announcement was made and the
headlong rush towards "liberalisation "started.
The first warning was the massive increase in postal letter charges; a
rise that is seen as an inducement to potential buyers but one that is
likely to affect small business users who are unable to facilitate
quantity discounting and small and isolated rural users who are
dependent on postal services for communication and supplies. These are
areas that have already been severely affected by earlier closures in
local amenities.
With privatisation there can be little doubt that a fully privatised
Royal Mail -will we still call it that - will seek to further reduce the
present Universal Service Obligation, that presently guarantees a level
postal charging structure and delivery service across the country. That
principle has already been breached for parcel delivery services that
are deemed to be "remote" from larger conurbations. When that USO is
depleted rural communities will inevitably suffer.
The Royal Mail is not just another company to be hived off for a quick
fix. It provides essential services, especially to smaller communities
and small businesses"
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Saturday 20 November – Friday 26 November 2010
Title: SPL Aberdeen v St Johnstone
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Aberdeen host St Johnstone at Pittodrie.
BBC SPORTS POINTER
Transmitted: Saturday 20th November 2010
Time: 5.30pm
Title: Horo Ghealaidh / Celtic Music Sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival perform at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's. This week, Rachel Walker and Alasdair Codona are among the guests.
Transmitted: Saturday 20th November 2010
Time: 10pm
Title: Partaig / Partick
The Ronans take the time to visit an old haunt, before it closes its doors for good. The Transport Museum at Partick bridge is moving to 'new Partick' so ice creams in the sun and a wander round is the order of the day. Meanwhile Donnie reveals the secrets of his shed and Aileen's dog Molly arrives back to stay. Nan and Angus are taking to the skies as Liz is flathunting on Byres road.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Monday 22nd November 2010
Time: 10pm
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account Gina MacDonald tells how she coped when her husband developed Alzheimers while still in his late 40's.
Transmitted: Tuesday 23rd November 2010
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Ceol Country / Country Music
Evelyn Coull takes you to the Kelso Country and Western Festival in the Scottish Borders. Among the Bands and Singers on show at the festival, Chris Raddings, Atlanta and Settlers Creek take to the stage. In addition to the music, there are a number of other things to take part in at a festival like this, as Evelyn attempts some dancing and archery. She also tries on some of the outfits that are so important to many of those in attendance.
Transmitted: Tuesday 23rd November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: An Faigh Iad Tadhal / Football Crazy
Through the eyes of a few passionate football fans we get an insight into their unique world. Featuring loyal followers of Ross County, Rangers,Celtic, Ness, Southend and Scotland.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Wednesday 24th November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: Club TV
Exclusive interviews, match action, and behind the scenes at Celtic and Rangers F.C.
Transmitted: Thursday 25th November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: Ruadh / Ginger Gene
Proud redhead Catriona MacPhee tells her story. It's a story about evolution, genetics, the complexity of prejudice, the roots of identity, and EVEN the threat of extinction.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Friday 26th November 2010
Time: 9pm
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Aberdeen host St Johnstone at Pittodrie.
BBC SPORTS POINTER
Transmitted: Saturday 20th November 2010
Time: 5.30pm
Title: Horo Ghealaidh / Celtic Music Sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival perform at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's. This week, Rachel Walker and Alasdair Codona are among the guests.
Transmitted: Saturday 20th November 2010
Time: 10pm
Title: Partaig / Partick
The Ronans take the time to visit an old haunt, before it closes its doors for good. The Transport Museum at Partick bridge is moving to 'new Partick' so ice creams in the sun and a wander round is the order of the day. Meanwhile Donnie reveals the secrets of his shed and Aileen's dog Molly arrives back to stay. Nan and Angus are taking to the skies as Liz is flathunting on Byres road.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Monday 22nd November 2010
Time: 10pm
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account Gina MacDonald tells how she coped when her husband developed Alzheimers while still in his late 40's.
Transmitted: Tuesday 23rd November 2010
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Ceol Country / Country Music
Evelyn Coull takes you to the Kelso Country and Western Festival in the Scottish Borders. Among the Bands and Singers on show at the festival, Chris Raddings, Atlanta and Settlers Creek take to the stage. In addition to the music, there are a number of other things to take part in at a festival like this, as Evelyn attempts some dancing and archery. She also tries on some of the outfits that are so important to many of those in attendance.
Transmitted: Tuesday 23rd November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: An Faigh Iad Tadhal / Football Crazy
Through the eyes of a few passionate football fans we get an insight into their unique world. Featuring loyal followers of Ross County, Rangers,Celtic, Ness, Southend and Scotland.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Wednesday 24th November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: Club TV
Exclusive interviews, match action, and behind the scenes at Celtic and Rangers F.C.
Transmitted: Thursday 25th November 2010
Time: 9pm
Title: Ruadh / Ginger Gene
Proud redhead Catriona MacPhee tells her story. It's a story about evolution, genetics, the complexity of prejudice, the roots of identity, and EVEN the threat of extinction.
BBC FACTUAL POINTER
Transmitted: Friday 26th November 2010
Time: 9pm
NFUS OUTLINES FIVE YEAR PLAN
At the meeting of the NFU Scotland Council in Perth today (8 November), Chief Executive James Withers presented a draft five-year plan for the organisation.
The plan, which will be completed by the year-end, maps out the direction of the organisation from 2011-2015. Its focus is to further strengthen the scope, impact and influence of the organisation by developing its services for members and reflecting the new challenges faced by the farming industry across the country.
As well as building on its core role, the priorities in the plan include re-engaging with the younger generation, developing expertise in new areas – such as renewables, agri-tourism and on-farm retailing – and reviewing the structure of the organisation.
Addressing Council delegates, NFUS Chief Executive James Withers said:
“We are in a strong position as an organisation with solid finances and a membership that has been growing for the last four years.
“From discussions we have had around the country in developing this plan, it is clear that the need for an effective voice for the industry is more important than ever. However, nothing stands still. The Union needs to adapt to a changing operating environment if we are to ensure a sustainable future for Scotland’s food and farming industry.
“There are a number areas we plan to focus on. We need to re-engage with the younger generation of farmers and land managers. Many of the issues that dominate our time – such as the future of CAP and rural development funding and a better functioning marketplace – will influence the next generation as much as the current. We need them involved in what we do and we must be better at representing their views.
“The modern farm business is also changing. There are thousands of our members moving into new areas, from renewable energy to on-farm retailing and tourism. We need to adapt to reflect those emerging priorities. In addition, it is time we looked again at how the structure of the organisation works. 11 years from the last major change, we are a different industry with different pressures. Some elements of how the organisation functions are sound, others need to be improved.
“We are fortunate to have a staff body across Scotland who have vast experience and expertise in their fields. In addition, we have talented members who give up their time to work on behalf of their peers and like-minded organisations that we have excellent relationships with. We are also working against a backdrop of a political system in Scotland that values food and farming and a whole range of global drivers that are putting the industry back in the spotlight. There are therefore huge opportunities ahead and we want to ensure we cement our position as the industry-leading organisation over the next five years to ensure we can grasp them.”
The plan, which will be completed by the year-end, maps out the direction of the organisation from 2011-2015. Its focus is to further strengthen the scope, impact and influence of the organisation by developing its services for members and reflecting the new challenges faced by the farming industry across the country.
As well as building on its core role, the priorities in the plan include re-engaging with the younger generation, developing expertise in new areas – such as renewables, agri-tourism and on-farm retailing – and reviewing the structure of the organisation.
Addressing Council delegates, NFUS Chief Executive James Withers said:
“We are in a strong position as an organisation with solid finances and a membership that has been growing for the last four years.
“From discussions we have had around the country in developing this plan, it is clear that the need for an effective voice for the industry is more important than ever. However, nothing stands still. The Union needs to adapt to a changing operating environment if we are to ensure a sustainable future for Scotland’s food and farming industry.
“There are a number areas we plan to focus on. We need to re-engage with the younger generation of farmers and land managers. Many of the issues that dominate our time – such as the future of CAP and rural development funding and a better functioning marketplace – will influence the next generation as much as the current. We need them involved in what we do and we must be better at representing their views.
“The modern farm business is also changing. There are thousands of our members moving into new areas, from renewable energy to on-farm retailing and tourism. We need to adapt to reflect those emerging priorities. In addition, it is time we looked again at how the structure of the organisation works. 11 years from the last major change, we are a different industry with different pressures. Some elements of how the organisation functions are sound, others need to be improved.
“We are fortunate to have a staff body across Scotland who have vast experience and expertise in their fields. In addition, we have talented members who give up their time to work on behalf of their peers and like-minded organisations that we have excellent relationships with. We are also working against a backdrop of a political system in Scotland that values food and farming and a whole range of global drivers that are putting the industry back in the spotlight. There are therefore huge opportunities ahead and we want to ensure we cement our position as the industry-leading organisation over the next five years to ensure we can grasp them.”
Manaidsear ùr aig Ionad Chaluim Chile Ìle
‘S e Niall Iain Woodrow, a bhuineas dha Bogha Mòr, a th’ air ainmeachadh mar Mhanaidsear ùr Ionad Chaluim Chile Ìle (ICCI). Tha Mgr Woodrow na Fhear-lagha Clàraichte ann an Alba.
A leantain air fòghlaim bun-sgoile aig Na Cillean agus Bogha Mòr chuir Niall crìoch air fòghlam sgoile aig Àrd-sgoiltean a’ Bhogha Mhòir, agus Ceann Loch Chill’ Chiarain. Le Ceum Urramach ann an Lagh Poblach agus Dioploma ann am Gnìomh Lagha Proifeasanta, bho Oilthigh Ghlaschu, rinn Niall a chuid treanaidh ann an Ceann Loch Gilb agus às an Òban agus chaidh e na neach-compàirt air companaidh lagha anns an Òban ann an 1988. Còig bliadhna an dèidh sin ghluais e gu bhith na neach-compàirt air companaidh ann am Baile Bhòid agus, nuair a leig an neach-compàirt aige dheth a’ dhreuchd, bha e as cionn buidhinn far an robh mu dheireadh dithis luchd-lagha eile agus luchd taice. Reic Niall a’ chompanaidh ann an 2007 is thill e gu ruig Ìle.
Tha Niall na neach ionnsachaidh daingeann agus tha e glè mhothachail air cliù a’ theaghlaich a thaobh taic dha Gàidhlig an Ìle. “Bha mo mhàthair nach maireann dian a thaobh Gàidhlig. Nuair a leig i dhith a’ dreuchd ann am Bun-sgoil nan Cillean lean i mar neach-teagaisg solair aig Aonad-Ghàidhlig Bun-sgoil a’ Bhogha Mhòir chun an robh i 70! Le Gàidhlig mar chiad chànan fhuair i Àrd Ìre fo theagasg Dhòmhnaill MhicThòmais, agus b’ ì a chiad Chathraiche air Co-Roinn Ìle, Dhiùra is Cholbhasa. Chum an Co-Roinn sgoiltean samhraidh grunnd bhliadhnaichean gus dearbhadh an iarrtais air ionad ionnsachaidh ann an Ìle. Tha eachdraidh na dearbhadh gun do shoirbhich leis na tachartasan sin. Tha fiughair mhòr orm gus tòiseachadh na mo dhreuchd aig Ionad Chaluim Chile Ìle!”
Bho thill e a dh’ Ìle tha Niall air a bhith ag ionnsachadh Gàidhlig agus tha e cuideachd air a bhith an sàs ann an cùisean coimhearsnachd; nam measg sin mar bhall air bòrd-stiùiridh a’ phàipear ionadail, An t-Ìleach, agus mar bhall air Iomairt Ìle agus Dhiùra aig Comunn na Gàidhlig.
A cur failte air Niall chun na dreuchd thuirt Cathraiche Eadar-amail Bòrd Stiùiridh ICCI, Ailean Caimbeul, “ Tha sinn glè thoilichte Manaidsear fhaotainn aig an Ionad a-rithist agus tha sinn a’ guidhe soirbheachadh dha Niall na dhreuchd ùr. Thar nan ochd mìosan deug a chaidh, le taic Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd, tha ICCI air a’ Phlana Gnìomh a’ sgrùdadh agus ùrachadh, agus tha sinn air leth moiteil earbsa Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus Chomhairle Earra Ghàidheil is Bhòid a ghleidheadh mar phrìomh bhuidhnean taice.
“Tha na Stiùirichean fada an comain Rita Nic an t-Sealgair a th’ air sàr obair leasachaidh a’ dhèanamh air a’ Phlana Ghnìomh againn thar 9 mìosan, agus tha dreuchd Nèill mar cheum cudromach ann an gnìomhadh a’ Phlana sin. Tha Rita an dùil crìoch a chur air obair ICCI mu dheireadh na bliadhna”.
Tha Plana Gìomh ICCI ag amas an t-Ionad fhàs mar iomairt shòisealta, agus:
Leasachadh mar phrìomh ionad Gàidhlig Ìle is Earra Ghàidheal;
Leasachadh mar ionad cànain is cultair;
Mar mheadhan leasachaidh eaconomach;
Leasachadh mar ghoireas coimhearsnachd.
Thuirt Ailean Caimbeul, “Ann a bhith a’ coilionadh nan amasan sin cuiridh ICCI ri cinn-uidhe leasachaidh Bhòrd na Gàidhlig a thaobh neartachadh na Gàidhlig san dachaigh, san ionad obrach, agus às a’ choimhearsnachd. Cuiridh an t-Ionad cuideachd ri amasan chultarail agus eaconomach Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd agus Chomhairle Earra Ghàidheil is Bhòid.”
A leantain air fòghlaim bun-sgoile aig Na Cillean agus Bogha Mòr chuir Niall crìoch air fòghlam sgoile aig Àrd-sgoiltean a’ Bhogha Mhòir, agus Ceann Loch Chill’ Chiarain. Le Ceum Urramach ann an Lagh Poblach agus Dioploma ann am Gnìomh Lagha Proifeasanta, bho Oilthigh Ghlaschu, rinn Niall a chuid treanaidh ann an Ceann Loch Gilb agus às an Òban agus chaidh e na neach-compàirt air companaidh lagha anns an Òban ann an 1988. Còig bliadhna an dèidh sin ghluais e gu bhith na neach-compàirt air companaidh ann am Baile Bhòid agus, nuair a leig an neach-compàirt aige dheth a’ dhreuchd, bha e as cionn buidhinn far an robh mu dheireadh dithis luchd-lagha eile agus luchd taice. Reic Niall a’ chompanaidh ann an 2007 is thill e gu ruig Ìle.
Tha Niall na neach ionnsachaidh daingeann agus tha e glè mhothachail air cliù a’ theaghlaich a thaobh taic dha Gàidhlig an Ìle. “Bha mo mhàthair nach maireann dian a thaobh Gàidhlig. Nuair a leig i dhith a’ dreuchd ann am Bun-sgoil nan Cillean lean i mar neach-teagaisg solair aig Aonad-Ghàidhlig Bun-sgoil a’ Bhogha Mhòir chun an robh i 70! Le Gàidhlig mar chiad chànan fhuair i Àrd Ìre fo theagasg Dhòmhnaill MhicThòmais, agus b’ ì a chiad Chathraiche air Co-Roinn Ìle, Dhiùra is Cholbhasa. Chum an Co-Roinn sgoiltean samhraidh grunnd bhliadhnaichean gus dearbhadh an iarrtais air ionad ionnsachaidh ann an Ìle. Tha eachdraidh na dearbhadh gun do shoirbhich leis na tachartasan sin. Tha fiughair mhòr orm gus tòiseachadh na mo dhreuchd aig Ionad Chaluim Chile Ìle!”
Bho thill e a dh’ Ìle tha Niall air a bhith ag ionnsachadh Gàidhlig agus tha e cuideachd air a bhith an sàs ann an cùisean coimhearsnachd; nam measg sin mar bhall air bòrd-stiùiridh a’ phàipear ionadail, An t-Ìleach, agus mar bhall air Iomairt Ìle agus Dhiùra aig Comunn na Gàidhlig.
A cur failte air Niall chun na dreuchd thuirt Cathraiche Eadar-amail Bòrd Stiùiridh ICCI, Ailean Caimbeul, “ Tha sinn glè thoilichte Manaidsear fhaotainn aig an Ionad a-rithist agus tha sinn a’ guidhe soirbheachadh dha Niall na dhreuchd ùr. Thar nan ochd mìosan deug a chaidh, le taic Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd, tha ICCI air a’ Phlana Gnìomh a’ sgrùdadh agus ùrachadh, agus tha sinn air leth moiteil earbsa Bhòrd na Gàidhlig agus Chomhairle Earra Ghàidheil is Bhòid a ghleidheadh mar phrìomh bhuidhnean taice.
“Tha na Stiùirichean fada an comain Rita Nic an t-Sealgair a th’ air sàr obair leasachaidh a’ dhèanamh air a’ Phlana Ghnìomh againn thar 9 mìosan, agus tha dreuchd Nèill mar cheum cudromach ann an gnìomhadh a’ Phlana sin. Tha Rita an dùil crìoch a chur air obair ICCI mu dheireadh na bliadhna”.
Tha Plana Gìomh ICCI ag amas an t-Ionad fhàs mar iomairt shòisealta, agus:
Leasachadh mar phrìomh ionad Gàidhlig Ìle is Earra Ghàidheal;
Leasachadh mar ionad cànain is cultair;
Mar mheadhan leasachaidh eaconomach;
Leasachadh mar ghoireas coimhearsnachd.
Thuirt Ailean Caimbeul, “Ann a bhith a’ coilionadh nan amasan sin cuiridh ICCI ri cinn-uidhe leasachaidh Bhòrd na Gàidhlig a thaobh neartachadh na Gàidhlig san dachaigh, san ionad obrach, agus às a’ choimhearsnachd. Cuiridh an t-Ionad cuideachd ri amasan chultarail agus eaconomach Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd agus Chomhairle Earra Ghàidheil is Bhòid.”
Monday, 15 November 2010
NFUS SLAMS MEAT INSPECTION COST RECOVERY PLANS
Farmers would bear the brunt of FSA proposals
Scotland’s livestock farmers could face a huge hike in their costs if Food Standards Agency plans to pass a £21 million bill for meat inspection charges onto the UK farming industry are delivered.
The FSA proposals, out today (Thursday, 11 November), outline how it plans to claw back the proportion of the total bill currently paid by the public purse for the cost of providing official vet and meat inspection controls in abattoirs. This amounts to around £32 million UK-wide with an impact assessment suggesting that £21 million of this bill would fall to producers with the remainder expected to be picked up by the abattoir and meat processing sector.
The sudden announcement by the FSA of the new proposals has undermined ongoing stakeholder discussions around this topic and could, by 2012, bring huge pressure on livestock producers at a time when returns, particularly on beef, are falling.
NFU Scotland Vice-President Nigel Miller, a representative on the UK-wide advisory group discussing the delivery of official controls in abattoirs said:
“This FSA proposal on cost-recovery is deeply unhelpful and totally undermines its own consultation process with stakeholders. The opportunity to take the work of stakeholder groups into consideration appears to have been abandoned in mid-stream, extinguishing trust and the positive progress such groups have made.
“There is no way the current livestock and abattoir sector can absorb the level of costs being proposed by the FSA without casualties in the meat industry. These are significant sums of money that will threaten the viability of processors and also put pressure on beef prices after a brutal summer where many finishers have suffered significant losses. For all involved in meat production, this winter has also seen the costs of production escalate, and recovering those costs from the marketplace has proven difficult enough without the FSA throwing an additional bill for meat inspection charges at farmers.
“NFU Scotland will reject the proposals and point out that it is perfectly reasonable for taxpayer funding to continue to support the cost of delivering food safety in a fair and transparent manner. In addition, there seems to have been no real attempt to improve the efficiency of these operations; simply a hasty attempt to dump over-inflated costs onto industry.
“It is against that context, that we need to examine what system is right for Scotland. The delivery of meat controls and inspections can be different north of the border so Government, its agencies and industry need to stop and think before presuming we should and could just swallow our share of a bloated system.”
Scotland’s livestock farmers could face a huge hike in their costs if Food Standards Agency plans to pass a £21 million bill for meat inspection charges onto the UK farming industry are delivered.
The FSA proposals, out today (Thursday, 11 November), outline how it plans to claw back the proportion of the total bill currently paid by the public purse for the cost of providing official vet and meat inspection controls in abattoirs. This amounts to around £32 million UK-wide with an impact assessment suggesting that £21 million of this bill would fall to producers with the remainder expected to be picked up by the abattoir and meat processing sector.
The sudden announcement by the FSA of the new proposals has undermined ongoing stakeholder discussions around this topic and could, by 2012, bring huge pressure on livestock producers at a time when returns, particularly on beef, are falling.
NFU Scotland Vice-President Nigel Miller, a representative on the UK-wide advisory group discussing the delivery of official controls in abattoirs said:
“This FSA proposal on cost-recovery is deeply unhelpful and totally undermines its own consultation process with stakeholders. The opportunity to take the work of stakeholder groups into consideration appears to have been abandoned in mid-stream, extinguishing trust and the positive progress such groups have made.
“There is no way the current livestock and abattoir sector can absorb the level of costs being proposed by the FSA without casualties in the meat industry. These are significant sums of money that will threaten the viability of processors and also put pressure on beef prices after a brutal summer where many finishers have suffered significant losses. For all involved in meat production, this winter has also seen the costs of production escalate, and recovering those costs from the marketplace has proven difficult enough without the FSA throwing an additional bill for meat inspection charges at farmers.
“NFU Scotland will reject the proposals and point out that it is perfectly reasonable for taxpayer funding to continue to support the cost of delivering food safety in a fair and transparent manner. In addition, there seems to have been no real attempt to improve the efficiency of these operations; simply a hasty attempt to dump over-inflated costs onto industry.
“It is against that context, that we need to examine what system is right for Scotland. The delivery of meat controls and inspections can be different north of the border so Government, its agencies and industry need to stop and think before presuming we should and could just swallow our share of a bloated system.”
Colmcille launches support for new projects celebrating the linguistic and cultural heritage of Ireland and Scotland
Colmcille – a partnership programme which promotes the shared linguistic and cultural heritage of Ireland and Scotland – has today launched support for new community initiatives, education, arts, publishing and youth projects.
Colmcille fosters understanding of the diverse experience and culture of the Irish and Scottish Gaelic communities, as well as encouraging debate on common concerns in social, cultural and economic issues with a view to building self-confidence within the Gaelic language communities. To fulfil its aims, Colmcille requires the participation of a wide range of communities and organisations and today launched a call for applications to support a new programme of diverse projects. Organisations have until Friday 17th December to submit applications for grant aid.
Alasdair MacKinnon, Co-ordinator for the Colmcille partnership, said that they “will welcome applications that develop new relationships between communities which speak Scottish Gaelic and communities which speak Irish Gaelic, and enhance the links already existing. All applications must have a strong focus on language, and link Scottish and Irish Gaelic”. “One of the underlying principles of Colmcille”, he said, “ is that its work and grant aided projects heightens awareness of the contribution of Gaelic to the cultural identity of both Ireland and Scotland and we will especially welcome applications for fresh and innovative projects which develop new original ways of representing Gaelic Ireland and Scotland”.
Colmcille was the main funder for one of the most successful Scottish/Irish arts projects, An Leabhar Mòr, a project which made a significant impact nationally and internationally. Over the years Colmcille has also supported various second and third level educational projects between Ireland and Scotland, including a partnership which developed dialogue at staff and student level between two bodies with responsibility for teacher training in Northern Ireland and Scotland. More recently Colmcille has assisted a primary school on the Island of Lewis in the Western Isles to develop their links with a school in County Clare. Throughout the week long twinning arrangement, pupils from both schools took part in joint activities and cultural visits cementing aspirations to set up joint Gaelic, history, geography and science projects between the two schools
www.colmcille.net
Notes:
Colmcille is a partnership programme between Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the body charged with promoting Gaelic language and culture in Scotland and internationally, and Foras na Gaeilge, the body charged with the promotion of the Irish language in the island of Ireland.
Colmcille was set up in 1997, and is funded by the Governments of Scotland and Ireland with a remit to 'create a vibrant interactive community spanning Ireland and Scotland'. Colmcille undertakes and supports projects that raise awareness of the shared Gaelic heritage of Ireland and Scotland
Gàidhlig and Gaeilge is the community language in much of the traditional Gaidhealtachd/ Gaeltacht heartlands of Ireland and Scotland and is also in use on a daily basis by many people outside the Gaeltacht in the cities of Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh, Derry, Belfast and Dublin. A total of 92,396 people have some Gaelic language ability in Scotland. According to the last Census 58,652 people can speak Gaelic, with an additional 33,744 having the ability to either read, write or understand the language. According to the last Census figures 1.66 million people in the South of Ireland can speak Gaeilge, whilst 10.4% of residents in Northern Ireland claim to have some knowledge of the language.
For more information on this news release, contact Alasdair MacKinnon, Colmcille Co-ordinator at alasdair@gaidhlig.org.uk or 07774 794 195
Colmcille fosters understanding of the diverse experience and culture of the Irish and Scottish Gaelic communities, as well as encouraging debate on common concerns in social, cultural and economic issues with a view to building self-confidence within the Gaelic language communities. To fulfil its aims, Colmcille requires the participation of a wide range of communities and organisations and today launched a call for applications to support a new programme of diverse projects. Organisations have until Friday 17th December to submit applications for grant aid.
Alasdair MacKinnon, Co-ordinator for the Colmcille partnership, said that they “will welcome applications that develop new relationships between communities which speak Scottish Gaelic and communities which speak Irish Gaelic, and enhance the links already existing. All applications must have a strong focus on language, and link Scottish and Irish Gaelic”. “One of the underlying principles of Colmcille”, he said, “ is that its work and grant aided projects heightens awareness of the contribution of Gaelic to the cultural identity of both Ireland and Scotland and we will especially welcome applications for fresh and innovative projects which develop new original ways of representing Gaelic Ireland and Scotland”.
Colmcille was the main funder for one of the most successful Scottish/Irish arts projects, An Leabhar Mòr, a project which made a significant impact nationally and internationally. Over the years Colmcille has also supported various second and third level educational projects between Ireland and Scotland, including a partnership which developed dialogue at staff and student level between two bodies with responsibility for teacher training in Northern Ireland and Scotland. More recently Colmcille has assisted a primary school on the Island of Lewis in the Western Isles to develop their links with a school in County Clare. Throughout the week long twinning arrangement, pupils from both schools took part in joint activities and cultural visits cementing aspirations to set up joint Gaelic, history, geography and science projects between the two schools
www.colmcille.net
Notes:
Colmcille is a partnership programme between Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the body charged with promoting Gaelic language and culture in Scotland and internationally, and Foras na Gaeilge, the body charged with the promotion of the Irish language in the island of Ireland.
Colmcille was set up in 1997, and is funded by the Governments of Scotland and Ireland with a remit to 'create a vibrant interactive community spanning Ireland and Scotland'. Colmcille undertakes and supports projects that raise awareness of the shared Gaelic heritage of Ireland and Scotland
Gàidhlig and Gaeilge is the community language in much of the traditional Gaidhealtachd/ Gaeltacht heartlands of Ireland and Scotland and is also in use on a daily basis by many people outside the Gaeltacht in the cities of Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh, Derry, Belfast and Dublin. A total of 92,396 people have some Gaelic language ability in Scotland. According to the last Census 58,652 people can speak Gaelic, with an additional 33,744 having the ability to either read, write or understand the language. According to the last Census figures 1.66 million people in the South of Ireland can speak Gaeilge, whilst 10.4% of residents in Northern Ireland claim to have some knowledge of the language.
For more information on this news release, contact Alasdair MacKinnon, Colmcille Co-ordinator at alasdair@gaidhlig.org.uk or 07774 794 195
BBC Alba Weekly Highlights
Date: Saturday 27 November – Friday 3 December 2010
Title: SPL Hibs V st. Johnston
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hibernian take on St Johnston.
Transmitted: Saturday 27th November
Time: 5.30pm
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean / Cookery
Two chefs go head to head in the kitchen to try and satisfy Cathy MacDonald's guest in a new series of Còcaire nan Còcairean
Transmitted: Monday 29th November
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Trusdadh / Alternative Fuels
The Western Isles currently has the highest percentage of residents living under fuel poverty in Scotland, some estimates putting the figure at over 60% of the population. Why is this and what action is being taken to improve things?
Transmitted: Monday 29th November
Time: 9pm
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account Anne Martin tells how she coped with the death of her baby son.
Transmitted: Tuesday 30th November
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 1st December
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Air an Rathad
Air an Rathad is back, with the crew going head to head in a brand new driving challenge. Calum Iain has won his first rally of the season. Will his form continue on the remote forest tracks of Argyll? After the Model T Ford and the Mini, could you name the next best designed car of all time? Louise discovers the answer.
Transmitted: Thursday 2nd December
Time: 10.00pm
Title: SPL Hibs V st. Johnston
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Hibernian take on St Johnston.
Transmitted: Saturday 27th November
Time: 5.30pm
Title: Cocaire nan Cocairean / Cookery
Two chefs go head to head in the kitchen to try and satisfy Cathy MacDonald's guest in a new series of Còcaire nan Còcairean
Transmitted: Monday 29th November
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Trusdadh / Alternative Fuels
The Western Isles currently has the highest percentage of residents living under fuel poverty in Scotland, some estimates putting the figure at over 60% of the population. Why is this and what action is being taken to improve things?
Transmitted: Monday 29th November
Time: 9pm
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account Anne Martin tells how she coped with the death of her baby son.
Transmitted: Tuesday 30th November
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Eorpa
Another edition of Eorpa, reporting on the most interesting stories from around Europe.
Transmitted: Wednesday 1st December
Time: 8.30pm
Title: Air an Rathad
Air an Rathad is back, with the crew going head to head in a brand new driving challenge. Calum Iain has won his first rally of the season. Will his form continue on the remote forest tracks of Argyll? After the Model T Ford and the Mini, could you name the next best designed car of all time? Louise discovers the answer.
Transmitted: Thursday 2nd December
Time: 10.00pm
Friday, 5 November 2010
EÒRPA ON BBC ALBA TO MARK ARMISTICE DAY
Wednesday 10 November, 8.30pm on BBC ALBA
Award-winning current affairs series, Eòrpa will bring BBC ALBA viewers a compelling programme marking Armistice Day, as the programme follows the story of German U-boat sailor Karl Heinz Golz who was washed ashore on the Isle of Skye.
On the 23rd March 1945, 17-year old Angus MacPhee was beachcombing with his cousins on the shores of Loch Bracadale, Skye when he made a discovery that would stay with him forever.
On the shore lay the body of a German U-boat sailor, Karl Heinz Golz. Golz had been a machinist on board U-Boat 1003, which had come under attack on 20th March 1945 by Canadian frigate ‘New Glasgow’ off the north-west coast of Ireland. His body was laid to rest in Portree cemetery temporarily and later interred in Cannock Chase, the German military cemetery in Staffordshire.
Many years later the events of that day still affected Angus MacPhee. Wanting to find out more about the young man whose body he had found on the shore, BBC Scotland contacted the local paper in the home town of Karl Heinz Golz asking for family members and friends to get in touch. It transpired that nobody in his family knew Karl Heinz had been found and buried in the UK.
A team from Eòrpa visited the town of Neumünster in northern Germany to find out more about Karl Heinz Golz, and to speak to his great niece, Jessica Lucht. Jessica then accompanied the Eòrpa team to Scotland to meet Angus MacPhee and to see the place where he made his discovery, as well as travelling to Cannock Chase to the grave where Karl Heinz Golz was finally laid to rest.
Jessica Lucht said: “As far as I knew he had just died in the sea off Scotland and he had not been found. And there was an anonymous grave where apparently fallen German soldiers were buried. But no one ever told us explicitly that that was where Heinz Golz was. And it was difficult to find these anonymous graves because no one had the money then to travel to them. It was great that someone was interested in it, in our family history, and that there was a person who had found him. That was what struck me most at that point. And the thing I wanted most at that point was to get to know this person, who had been so big-hearted to have concerned himself with this.”
Angus MacPhee said: “This man has been on my mind all my life. It gave me a huge lift to find out who he was and that he had relatives alive today. It's done me the world of good to meet one of his relatives. It’s like closure. I'm so glad that Jessica will now see his grave and she too will have closure.”
This programme follows the story of Karl Heinz Golz and the discoveries made by Angus MacPhee and by Jessica Lucht as they embark upon their fact finding missions.
Produced by BBC Gàidhlig, Eòrpa will broadcast on BBC ALBA on Wednesday 10 November at 8.30pm and weekly thereafter. The programme will also be broadcast on Friday 12 November at 7.30pm on BBC 2 Scotland and available on BBC iPlayer.
Award-winning current affairs series, Eòrpa will bring BBC ALBA viewers a compelling programme marking Armistice Day, as the programme follows the story of German U-boat sailor Karl Heinz Golz who was washed ashore on the Isle of Skye.
On the 23rd March 1945, 17-year old Angus MacPhee was beachcombing with his cousins on the shores of Loch Bracadale, Skye when he made a discovery that would stay with him forever.
On the shore lay the body of a German U-boat sailor, Karl Heinz Golz. Golz had been a machinist on board U-Boat 1003, which had come under attack on 20th March 1945 by Canadian frigate ‘New Glasgow’ off the north-west coast of Ireland. His body was laid to rest in Portree cemetery temporarily and later interred in Cannock Chase, the German military cemetery in Staffordshire.
Many years later the events of that day still affected Angus MacPhee. Wanting to find out more about the young man whose body he had found on the shore, BBC Scotland contacted the local paper in the home town of Karl Heinz Golz asking for family members and friends to get in touch. It transpired that nobody in his family knew Karl Heinz had been found and buried in the UK.
A team from Eòrpa visited the town of Neumünster in northern Germany to find out more about Karl Heinz Golz, and to speak to his great niece, Jessica Lucht. Jessica then accompanied the Eòrpa team to Scotland to meet Angus MacPhee and to see the place where he made his discovery, as well as travelling to Cannock Chase to the grave where Karl Heinz Golz was finally laid to rest.
Jessica Lucht said: “As far as I knew he had just died in the sea off Scotland and he had not been found. And there was an anonymous grave where apparently fallen German soldiers were buried. But no one ever told us explicitly that that was where Heinz Golz was. And it was difficult to find these anonymous graves because no one had the money then to travel to them. It was great that someone was interested in it, in our family history, and that there was a person who had found him. That was what struck me most at that point. And the thing I wanted most at that point was to get to know this person, who had been so big-hearted to have concerned himself with this.”
Angus MacPhee said: “This man has been on my mind all my life. It gave me a huge lift to find out who he was and that he had relatives alive today. It's done me the world of good to meet one of his relatives. It’s like closure. I'm so glad that Jessica will now see his grave and she too will have closure.”
This programme follows the story of Karl Heinz Golz and the discoveries made by Angus MacPhee and by Jessica Lucht as they embark upon their fact finding missions.
Produced by BBC Gàidhlig, Eòrpa will broadcast on BBC ALBA on Wednesday 10 November at 8.30pm and weekly thereafter. The programme will also be broadcast on Friday 12 November at 7.30pm on BBC 2 Scotland and available on BBC iPlayer.
Rural Primary Schools (Argyll and Bute)
Parliamentary Question
Jamie McGrigor (Highlands and Islands) (Con): To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to prevent the closure of rural primary schools in Argyll and Bute. (S3O-11761)
The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning (Michael Russell): Argyll and Bute Council is responsible for decisions on school closures in its area, in accordance with legal requirements, and the democratically elected local councillors will be accountable for the decisions that they take. As members will be aware, the council has postponed its decision and has asked officers to complete further work on the proposals.
As the member knows, the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010, which was proposed by this Government, establishes a presumption against the closure of rural schools by ensuring that a decision by a council to consult on a closure proposal is only a last resort. Argyll and Bute Council must, like all councils, follow the robust consultation process set out in that act, and if there is strong evidence that that has not been properly done, Scottish ministers will call in and could refuse consent to any closure decisions.
Jamie McGrigor: I am glad to hear that. Is the cabinet secretary aware of the anger felt by parents and communities throughout Argyll and Bute at the council's shocking plans to close 26 primary schools? Many of those people are already questioning the basis for the proposals and whether the council has genuinely explored all the other options before considering what should be the last resort of closure. Does he agree that rural primary schools such as Southend, Glenbarr, Barcaldine, Keills, Ulva, Luing and all the others are fundamental to the socioeconomic fabric of fragile rural and island communities and that government at all levels should be working to support them? Finally, will he assure local parents that he is doing so?
Michael Russell: I am very pleased that the 2010 act, which members unanimously supported, empowers parents in precisely these circumstances and that that empowerment is being assisted by other groups. I pay tribute to the Scottish National Party group on the council, which decided to press the other councillors for a delay, and I am glad that the councillors agreed to it. I praise the rural schools network on its information campaign, which has laid bare some of the arguments on the importance of providing information, and the website forargyll.com on its tremendous job in bringing together information. Most of all, I praise the communities themselves. They need to know about the rights, protections and defence that they have through the 2010 act, which, as I say, was introduced by this Administration. When any such proposals are made, they should be well-informed proposals of last resort. Even then, communities have substantial rights that they should know about, and I am taking steps to ensure that that information is available to every rural community in Scotland.
Jamie McGrigor (Highlands and Islands) (Con): To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to prevent the closure of rural primary schools in Argyll and Bute. (S3O-11761)
The Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning (Michael Russell): Argyll and Bute Council is responsible for decisions on school closures in its area, in accordance with legal requirements, and the democratically elected local councillors will be accountable for the decisions that they take. As members will be aware, the council has postponed its decision and has asked officers to complete further work on the proposals.
As the member knows, the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010, which was proposed by this Government, establishes a presumption against the closure of rural schools by ensuring that a decision by a council to consult on a closure proposal is only a last resort. Argyll and Bute Council must, like all councils, follow the robust consultation process set out in that act, and if there is strong evidence that that has not been properly done, Scottish ministers will call in and could refuse consent to any closure decisions.
Jamie McGrigor: I am glad to hear that. Is the cabinet secretary aware of the anger felt by parents and communities throughout Argyll and Bute at the council's shocking plans to close 26 primary schools? Many of those people are already questioning the basis for the proposals and whether the council has genuinely explored all the other options before considering what should be the last resort of closure. Does he agree that rural primary schools such as Southend, Glenbarr, Barcaldine, Keills, Ulva, Luing and all the others are fundamental to the socioeconomic fabric of fragile rural and island communities and that government at all levels should be working to support them? Finally, will he assure local parents that he is doing so?
Michael Russell: I am very pleased that the 2010 act, which members unanimously supported, empowers parents in precisely these circumstances and that that empowerment is being assisted by other groups. I pay tribute to the Scottish National Party group on the council, which decided to press the other councillors for a delay, and I am glad that the councillors agreed to it. I praise the rural schools network on its information campaign, which has laid bare some of the arguments on the importance of providing information, and the website forargyll.com on its tremendous job in bringing together information. Most of all, I praise the communities themselves. They need to know about the rights, protections and defence that they have through the 2010 act, which, as I say, was introduced by this Administration. When any such proposals are made, they should be well-informed proposals of last resort. Even then, communities have substantial rights that they should know about, and I am taking steps to ensure that that information is available to every rural community in Scotland.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday 13 November – Friday 19 November 2010
Title: Trusadh - Beatha Ghlaiste/Imprisoned
Scotland sends more people per head of population to prison than any other country in Europe. There are approximately 8000 prisoners behind bars in this country, and the prisons are full to capacity, with overcrowding being a major problem. Are new prisons the answer though? Or should we look at other options to reduce the prison population?
Most of Scotland's prisoners have also been imprisoned before. So why is the situation so bad in this country?
By speaking to those who used to work in the old prison system, and those who work in the prisons today, Trusadh explores the way ahead.
Transmitted: Monday 15th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Uaigneas
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account, Marion MacKay tells how she coped when her young son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
Transmitted: Tuesday 16th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Soillse - Sireadh Cliu
Karaoke singing and talent shows are a national obsession in the Philippines. Soillse looks at the children from across the country who see these shows as route out of poverty and into the ultimate dream of singing on national TV.
Transmitted: Wednesday 17th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Fear Chanaidh
The late John Lorne Campbell of Canna rightly earned a reputation as one of the leading scholars and folklore collectors of Gaeldom. This programme explores the work, motivation and dedication of the man himself who combined the profession of collector with that of a farmer.
Transmitted: Thursday 18th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Grinn/Makeover
Style a-plenty tonight as Moira MacLean and John Jo MacNeil get a makeover. With Lynda Martin, Donna MacLeod and John Bowers.
Transmitted: Friday 19th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Trusadh - Beatha Ghlaiste/Imprisoned
Scotland sends more people per head of population to prison than any other country in Europe. There are approximately 8000 prisoners behind bars in this country, and the prisons are full to capacity, with overcrowding being a major problem. Are new prisons the answer though? Or should we look at other options to reduce the prison population?
Most of Scotland's prisoners have also been imprisoned before. So why is the situation so bad in this country?
By speaking to those who used to work in the old prison system, and those who work in the prisons today, Trusadh explores the way ahead.
Transmitted: Monday 15th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Uaigneas
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account, Marion MacKay tells how she coped when her young son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
Transmitted: Tuesday 16th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Soillse - Sireadh Cliu
Karaoke singing and talent shows are a national obsession in the Philippines. Soillse looks at the children from across the country who see these shows as route out of poverty and into the ultimate dream of singing on national TV.
Transmitted: Wednesday 17th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Fear Chanaidh
The late John Lorne Campbell of Canna rightly earned a reputation as one of the leading scholars and folklore collectors of Gaeldom. This programme explores the work, motivation and dedication of the man himself who combined the profession of collector with that of a farmer.
Transmitted: Thursday 18th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Grinn/Makeover
Style a-plenty tonight as Moira MacLean and John Jo MacNeil get a makeover. With Lynda Martin, Donna MacLeod and John Bowers.
Transmitted: Friday 19th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Monday, 1 November 2010
ENERGY MINISTER AND BBC JOURNALIST TO CHAIR FARMER-FOCUSED RENEWABLES CONFERENCE
Land managers will have a unique opportunity to find out more about collaborative approaches to developing on-farm renewables projects at a free conference taking place in Argyll in November. The conference, ‘Sustainable Communities – the Way Forward’ will take place at Lochgilphead High School Joint Campus on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 November and has been arranged in partnership with NFU Scotland.
BBC Scotland broadcaster Ken MacDonald will chair day one of the conference, which will explore what makes a sustainable community. Delegates will learn from good practice in sustainable development from around the world, before focusing their thoughts on how they can apply this good practice to their own communities.
Scottish Energy Minister, Jim Mather will chair day two of the conference, titled ‘Route to Market — generating income through renewable energy’, which is specifically aimed at farmers, crofters, estate owners and land managers. Participants will gain an understanding of proven routes to market involving collaboration between communities and landowners. In addition, there will be an opportunity to meet others wishing to develop renewables projects and learn about funding options for renewable technology development.
Jim McLaren, NFUS President said:
“There are many challenges when embarking on a renewable energy project. Ensuring that the maximum value from the project is retained in the local area is a key concern, after issues of planning permission, access to capital and securing the support of neighbours and local communities have been overcome. I believe that many of these challenges are linked directly to the issue of local community support, and that by securing an income stream from large scale renewable projects, the benefits can be felt by all those most closely affected.”
Lucy Sumsion, NFUS Argyll & Islands Regional Manager said:
“The conference has been organised at a weekend to give everyone the best opportunity to attend. The event is free with all refreshments and lunch provided. Some people may be interested in attending both days of the conference; however, you can just attend one of the two days. If you are currently thinking about the options for income generation from renewables then this event is for you.
BBC Scotland broadcaster Ken MacDonald will chair day one of the conference, which will explore what makes a sustainable community. Delegates will learn from good practice in sustainable development from around the world, before focusing their thoughts on how they can apply this good practice to their own communities.
Scottish Energy Minister, Jim Mather will chair day two of the conference, titled ‘Route to Market — generating income through renewable energy’, which is specifically aimed at farmers, crofters, estate owners and land managers. Participants will gain an understanding of proven routes to market involving collaboration between communities and landowners. In addition, there will be an opportunity to meet others wishing to develop renewables projects and learn about funding options for renewable technology development.
Jim McLaren, NFUS President said:
“There are many challenges when embarking on a renewable energy project. Ensuring that the maximum value from the project is retained in the local area is a key concern, after issues of planning permission, access to capital and securing the support of neighbours and local communities have been overcome. I believe that many of these challenges are linked directly to the issue of local community support, and that by securing an income stream from large scale renewable projects, the benefits can be felt by all those most closely affected.”
Lucy Sumsion, NFUS Argyll & Islands Regional Manager said:
“The conference has been organised at a weekend to give everyone the best opportunity to attend. The event is free with all refreshments and lunch provided. Some people may be interested in attending both days of the conference; however, you can just attend one of the two days. If you are currently thinking about the options for income generation from renewables then this event is for you.
NFUS TAKES TO THE ROAD ON LESS FAVOURED AREAS
NFU Scotland is to hold a series of meetings around Scotland to explain the ongoing changes to the current Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme (LFASS) and also discuss with farmers the future of LFA, particularly in light of ongoing discussions around reform of the CAP.
Almost 85 percent of Scotland is recognised by Europe as being disadvantaged. This allowed payments under LFASS last year to deliver £64 million to almost 13,000 businesses in these areas. New rates were introduced to the fragile and very fragile areas last scheme year and 2011 will see new rates introduced for producers in the standard LFA areas.
The current debate around CAP Reform has also opened up discussion on how LFA support might be delivered in the future. LFA funding at a European level is delivered as part of the rural development pot, known as Pillar 2 of the CAP. Several European documents related to the planned CAP Reform in 2013 have suggested that such funding should be shifted to Pillar 1 – the pot of European funding that currently delivers direct payment schemes such as the Single Farm Payment (SFP). That is something the Union is minded to oppose.
In addition, NFUS wants to talk with producers about how Europe may actually define Less Favoured Areas in the future.
NFUS Head of Rural Policy, Jonnie Hall, who will be speaking at all 11 meetings said:
“Funding delivered through the LFASS is crucial to a huge number of livestock enterprises across Scotland but with changes to payment rates, discussion on how LFA will be defined and question marks over where LFA support will sit within the CAP architecture, the time is right to go out and speak to members about this lifeline scheme.
“For existing LFASS recipients, a series of changes to payment rates and how the payment will be calculated will mean that their LFASS payments will be changing. Payments will now better reflect activity on farms but those changes will be far from uniform - affecting every claimant in different ways between now and 2013.
“We know how important it is that farmers and crofters are aware of current and future changes to this vital component of support for Scottish agriculture - worth over £60 million annually – and we would encourage them to attend any one of our series of meetings to learn about changes to LFASS and discuss the future of Less Favoured Area support.
Members who would like further details can contact NFUS Head Office on 0131 472 4000
Members of the media are welcome to attend. Further details can be obtained from Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006 or Email: HYPERLINK mailto:bob.carruth@nfus.org.uk bob.carruth@nfus.org.uk
Almost 85 percent of Scotland is recognised by Europe as being disadvantaged. This allowed payments under LFASS last year to deliver £64 million to almost 13,000 businesses in these areas. New rates were introduced to the fragile and very fragile areas last scheme year and 2011 will see new rates introduced for producers in the standard LFA areas.
The current debate around CAP Reform has also opened up discussion on how LFA support might be delivered in the future. LFA funding at a European level is delivered as part of the rural development pot, known as Pillar 2 of the CAP. Several European documents related to the planned CAP Reform in 2013 have suggested that such funding should be shifted to Pillar 1 – the pot of European funding that currently delivers direct payment schemes such as the Single Farm Payment (SFP). That is something the Union is minded to oppose.
In addition, NFUS wants to talk with producers about how Europe may actually define Less Favoured Areas in the future.
NFUS Head of Rural Policy, Jonnie Hall, who will be speaking at all 11 meetings said:
“Funding delivered through the LFASS is crucial to a huge number of livestock enterprises across Scotland but with changes to payment rates, discussion on how LFA will be defined and question marks over where LFA support will sit within the CAP architecture, the time is right to go out and speak to members about this lifeline scheme.
“For existing LFASS recipients, a series of changes to payment rates and how the payment will be calculated will mean that their LFASS payments will be changing. Payments will now better reflect activity on farms but those changes will be far from uniform - affecting every claimant in different ways between now and 2013.
“We know how important it is that farmers and crofters are aware of current and future changes to this vital component of support for Scottish agriculture - worth over £60 million annually – and we would encourage them to attend any one of our series of meetings to learn about changes to LFASS and discuss the future of Less Favoured Area support.
Members who would like further details can contact NFUS Head Office on 0131 472 4000
Members of the media are welcome to attend. Further details can be obtained from Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006 or Email: HYPERLINK mailto:bob.carruth@nfus.org.uk bob.carruth@nfus.org.uk
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday 6 November – Friday 12 November 2010
Title: SPL St. Johnstone V Kilmarnock
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as St Johnstone host Kilmarnock at McDiarmid Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 6th November 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Horo Ghealaidh/Celtic Music Sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival drop in to give special, intimate performances at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's filmed in Glasgow and presented by Sarah Cruickshank.
This week, famous singer Kate Rusby, folk group Shetland Bus and Darren MacLean are among the guests. This is a unique opportunity to watch world-class artists up close, performing stripped down versions of their songs live on our sofa in a way you won't have seen them before.
Transmitted: Saturday 6th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Tir nan Òran / Heartland Music
As part of the BBC’s Year of Gaelic Song, Tìr nan Òran (Heartland Song) brings you five of the most popular songs from Harris, including performances from Donna MacSween and Ewen MacLeod. The series is narrated by popular Gaelic singer Kirsteen MacDonald.
Transmitted: Monday 8th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Partaig / Partick
The MacLeod clan are out and about the fortnightly Farmers Market in the heart of Partick, trying foods from across Europe.
With the FilmG award ceremony at Eden Court in Inverness and the opening night of Aileen's pub, the Partick residents enjoy a bit of glitz this week.
Meanwhile, Donnie is with the lads down at Partick Bowling Club and Rev Murdo Angus is out and about visiting his Partick parishioners, whilst Nan takes a Gaelic class with a twist and Shona attends the GGs choir practice.
Transmitted: Monday 8th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account, Nannie Kearney tells how she helped her family deal with Alzheimers and cancer.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Ceol Country / Country Music
Evelyn Coull takes you to the Kelso Country and Western Festival in the Scottish Borders. Among the bands and singers on show at the festival are Raising Cain, The Haleys and Jonny Williams.
In addition to the music, Evelyn meets with the festival organisers to learn more about this popular event. She also takes a trip to the Kelso Races in the company of local country band, Rockin' Horse.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: SPL Aberdeen v Inverness Caledonian Thistle
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Aberdeen host Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Pittodrie.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: An Cuiltheann / The Cuillin
The Skye Cuillin has been an important landmark since early times, a lure for mountaineers since the early 1800s, and a favoured haunt of poets, artists and writers.
An Cuiltheann charts the history, climbs, characters and artistry associated with the longest mountain ridge in Britain. Featuring interviews with artists, climbers, and local people, the programme illustrates the challenge and inspiration of the "Alps" of Skye.
Transmitted: Thursday 11th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Grinn / Makeover
Mairi Wetton and Marie Matheson styled and groomed by Grinn team, Lynda Martin, Donna MacLeod and John Bowers.
Transmitted: Friday 12th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: SPL St. Johnstone V Kilmarnock
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as St Johnstone host Kilmarnock at McDiarmid Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 6th November 2010
Time: 17:30
Title: Horo Ghealaidh/Celtic Music Sessions
World class musicians from the Celtic Connections festival drop in to give special, intimate performances at the Horo Gheallaidh ceilidh session's filmed in Glasgow and presented by Sarah Cruickshank.
This week, famous singer Kate Rusby, folk group Shetland Bus and Darren MacLean are among the guests. This is a unique opportunity to watch world-class artists up close, performing stripped down versions of their songs live on our sofa in a way you won't have seen them before.
Transmitted: Saturday 6th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Tir nan Òran / Heartland Music
As part of the BBC’s Year of Gaelic Song, Tìr nan Òran (Heartland Song) brings you five of the most popular songs from Harris, including performances from Donna MacSween and Ewen MacLeod. The series is narrated by popular Gaelic singer Kirsteen MacDonald.
Transmitted: Monday 8th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Partaig / Partick
The MacLeod clan are out and about the fortnightly Farmers Market in the heart of Partick, trying foods from across Europe.
With the FilmG award ceremony at Eden Court in Inverness and the opening night of Aileen's pub, the Partick residents enjoy a bit of glitz this week.
Meanwhile, Donnie is with the lads down at Partick Bowling Club and Rev Murdo Angus is out and about visiting his Partick parishioners, whilst Nan takes a Gaelic class with a twist and Shona attends the GGs choir practice.
Transmitted: Monday 8th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: Uaigneas / Solitude
Uaigneas highlights the role of women in times of family crisis or trauma, giving a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching understanding of how they cope. In a personal and candid account, Nannie Kearney tells how she helped her family deal with Alzheimers and cancer.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 20:30
Title: Ceol Country / Country Music
Evelyn Coull takes you to the Kelso Country and Western Festival in the Scottish Borders. Among the bands and singers on show at the festival are Raising Cain, The Haleys and Jonny Williams.
In addition to the music, Evelyn meets with the festival organisers to learn more about this popular event. She also takes a trip to the Kelso Races in the company of local country band, Rockin' Horse.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: SPL Aberdeen v Inverness Caledonian Thistle
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Aberdeen host Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Pittodrie.
Transmitted: Tuesday 9th November 2010
Time: 22:00
Title: An Cuiltheann / The Cuillin
The Skye Cuillin has been an important landmark since early times, a lure for mountaineers since the early 1800s, and a favoured haunt of poets, artists and writers.
An Cuiltheann charts the history, climbs, characters and artistry associated with the longest mountain ridge in Britain. Featuring interviews with artists, climbers, and local people, the programme illustrates the challenge and inspiration of the "Alps" of Skye.
Transmitted: Thursday 11th November 2010
Time: 21:00
Title: Grinn / Makeover
Mairi Wetton and Marie Matheson styled and groomed by Grinn team, Lynda Martin, Donna MacLeod and John Bowers.
Transmitted: Friday 12th November 2010
Time: 21:00
UNION TO COLLATE REPORTS OF CATTLE CLIPPING INJURIES
NFU Scotland is to collate reports of injuries sustained by farmers whilst clipping cattle ahead of sending the animals to market or abattoir for slaughter.
The reason for clipping is that farmers are required to present animals in as clean a condition as possible when they are entering the food chain. This occasionally requires dirty hair to be removed from the animals. Clipping cattle on farm before presenting them for slaughter is hazardous and a number of Scottish farmers are hurt each year - including some that are severely injured - while getting their animals ready for selling.
With the support of the Health and Safety Executive, the Union will be distributing an injury report form and encouraging anyone injured while carrying out cattle clipping to fill out and return the form, anonymously if they wish, to NFUS. The Union will then discuss the results with HSE in due course.
As an alternative to clipping on farm, NFUS has supported developments in on-line clipping facilities that would see dirty cattle clipped post-mortem at the abattoir. To date, the only known abattoir in Scotland to have installed on-line clipping facilities is the ABP Perth plant.
NFU Scotland’s Livestock Policy Manager Penny Johnston said:
“An unfortunate consequence of the requirement for farmers to supply clean cattle into abattoirs is that many farmers and their staff continue to be injured each year, some seriously, as they attempt the hazardous job of clipping their cattle pre-slaughter on farm.
“The incidence of injuries is generally thought to be under-reported as many hurt worry over logging such incidents with the authorities for fear of follow-up inspections or reprisals. We continue to work with the HSE on the issue and, with their agreement, we will collate evidence of injuries anonymously and present the results to HSE for discussion.
“We would urge any farmers or their staff injured while carrying out cattle clipping to complete our injury form. These will be available from local group secretaries, regional staff, head office and on our website with the completed forms to be sent to us for analysis.
“While cattle clipping on farm is likely to remain a requirement for most cattle finishers this autumn and winter, the availability of a post-slaughter clipping facility at abattoirs would reduce the risk of injury to farmers and animals. NFUS supports the introduction of on line facilities into abattoirs across Scotland as a way of reducing the stress on both farmers and cattle and improving the welfare of man and beast alike. There would also be knock-on benefits to meat quality of such an approach.
“This is not a green light to producers to start consigning dirty cattle to the food chain but would help to address the considerable health and safety concerns around clipping animals live on farm. That is a dangerous job and farmers across the country are crying out for an alternative to clipping cattle because of the acute risk of serious injury.”
The reason for clipping is that farmers are required to present animals in as clean a condition as possible when they are entering the food chain. This occasionally requires dirty hair to be removed from the animals. Clipping cattle on farm before presenting them for slaughter is hazardous and a number of Scottish farmers are hurt each year - including some that are severely injured - while getting their animals ready for selling.
With the support of the Health and Safety Executive, the Union will be distributing an injury report form and encouraging anyone injured while carrying out cattle clipping to fill out and return the form, anonymously if they wish, to NFUS. The Union will then discuss the results with HSE in due course.
As an alternative to clipping on farm, NFUS has supported developments in on-line clipping facilities that would see dirty cattle clipped post-mortem at the abattoir. To date, the only known abattoir in Scotland to have installed on-line clipping facilities is the ABP Perth plant.
NFU Scotland’s Livestock Policy Manager Penny Johnston said:
“An unfortunate consequence of the requirement for farmers to supply clean cattle into abattoirs is that many farmers and their staff continue to be injured each year, some seriously, as they attempt the hazardous job of clipping their cattle pre-slaughter on farm.
“The incidence of injuries is generally thought to be under-reported as many hurt worry over logging such incidents with the authorities for fear of follow-up inspections or reprisals. We continue to work with the HSE on the issue and, with their agreement, we will collate evidence of injuries anonymously and present the results to HSE for discussion.
“We would urge any farmers or their staff injured while carrying out cattle clipping to complete our injury form. These will be available from local group secretaries, regional staff, head office and on our website with the completed forms to be sent to us for analysis.
“While cattle clipping on farm is likely to remain a requirement for most cattle finishers this autumn and winter, the availability of a post-slaughter clipping facility at abattoirs would reduce the risk of injury to farmers and animals. NFUS supports the introduction of on line facilities into abattoirs across Scotland as a way of reducing the stress on both farmers and cattle and improving the welfare of man and beast alike. There would also be knock-on benefits to meat quality of such an approach.
“This is not a green light to producers to start consigning dirty cattle to the food chain but would help to address the considerable health and safety concerns around clipping animals live on farm. That is a dangerous job and farmers across the country are crying out for an alternative to clipping cattle because of the acute risk of serious injury.”
COUNCIL WINS NATIONAL AWARD FOR FOOD CONTRACT
Argyll and Bute Council has won a prestigious national award for a food contract initiative in Bute.
The council’s procurement team won the Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility category at the third annual Government Opportunities (GO) Excellence in Public Procurement Awards Scotland 2010-11.
The aim of the Bute project was to link the supply of food into the educational curriculum, involving teachers as well as catering staff in developing the sourcing strategy for butcher meat, eggs and cheese.
The pilot project had a number of positive outcomes, including a 25% increase in school meals take up, an increase in the level of pupil satisfaction with school meals, overall economic benefit to the catering service and high levels of sustainability.
Argyll and Bute Council’s graduate recruitment and training programme for procurement officers was also a finalist in the awards, in the Innovation or Initiative of the Year category.
Council leader, Councillor Dick Walsh, said: “We are obviously delighted to have won this high profile award.
“It was a major achievement for Argyll and Bute council to have been shortlisted in two categories, and it is very exciting to have triumphed in one of them over what was some very stiff competition.
“GO is the only magazine in the UK dedicated to public procurement, so any award it presents is based upon in depth knowledge of the marketplace.
“Argyll and Bute’s shortlisted projects are examples of the sort of exciting and innovative initiatives on which this council prides itself. I congratulate all those who worked so hard to see them come to fruition.”
GO Managing Editor Grahame Steed said: “This year’s GO Awards Scotland have underlined the quality of procurement staff across the country and also highlighted that there are many suppliers prepared to go the extra mile in order to deliver quality services.
“Procurement will see some radical changes over the coming years but, on the evidence of these awards, there are many individuals and organisations in Scotland with the right mindset and ambition to ensure a successful outcome.”
A full list of the award winners is at http://www.govopps.co.uk/awardscotland/winners_2010.htm
The council’s procurement team won the Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility category at the third annual Government Opportunities (GO) Excellence in Public Procurement Awards Scotland 2010-11.
The aim of the Bute project was to link the supply of food into the educational curriculum, involving teachers as well as catering staff in developing the sourcing strategy for butcher meat, eggs and cheese.
The pilot project had a number of positive outcomes, including a 25% increase in school meals take up, an increase in the level of pupil satisfaction with school meals, overall economic benefit to the catering service and high levels of sustainability.
Argyll and Bute Council’s graduate recruitment and training programme for procurement officers was also a finalist in the awards, in the Innovation or Initiative of the Year category.
Council leader, Councillor Dick Walsh, said: “We are obviously delighted to have won this high profile award.
“It was a major achievement for Argyll and Bute council to have been shortlisted in two categories, and it is very exciting to have triumphed in one of them over what was some very stiff competition.
“GO is the only magazine in the UK dedicated to public procurement, so any award it presents is based upon in depth knowledge of the marketplace.
“Argyll and Bute’s shortlisted projects are examples of the sort of exciting and innovative initiatives on which this council prides itself. I congratulate all those who worked so hard to see them come to fruition.”
GO Managing Editor Grahame Steed said: “This year’s GO Awards Scotland have underlined the quality of procurement staff across the country and also highlighted that there are many suppliers prepared to go the extra mile in order to deliver quality services.
“Procurement will see some radical changes over the coming years but, on the evidence of these awards, there are many individuals and organisations in Scotland with the right mindset and ambition to ensure a successful outcome.”
A full list of the award winners is at http://www.govopps.co.uk/awardscotland/winners_2010.htm
Postal Services Bill Second Reading – Vince Cable Opening Speech – 27 October 2010
Mr. Speaker, I beg to move that this Bill be read a second time.
INTRODUCTION
Mr. Speaker, let me begin by making it clear why we are here: Royal Mail and the Post Office are two cornerstones of our society. They are different businesses, they are both essential to everyday life in the UK.
Royal Mail is responsible for collecting and delivering our letters. It provides the universal postal service which ensures the collection and delivery of letters and parcels from any postbox to any address in the country. And all at uniform, affordable prices.
The Post Office is an unrivalled network of shops, spread throughout the country. It allows people local access to essential services in the heart of their communities.
The aim of this Bill is to secure the future of these two great institutions and the services they provide and I look forward to the support of members opposite who have genuinely tried to secure the future of Royal Mail and the Post Office network before. They will no doubt agree with me that this must be the last and successful attempt.
HOOPER AND BACKGROUND
Mr Speaker, the sad fact is that the country that pioneered postal services in the 19th Century has been left behind in the 21st Century. The rise of email and the internet has led to a dramatic fall in the number of letters we send. The previous Government were well aware that problem. They commissioned an independent review into the future of the universal postal service, chaired by Richard Hooper. This review found that letter volumes were in structural decline, Royal Mail was in grave financial difficulty, and the universal postal service was under threat. Its conclusion was encapsulated in its title – “Modernise or Decline”. All sides of this House accepted the conclusion that the current system was broken. The company, the union, businesses and commentators – all agreed with the Hooper conclusion when he said “the status quo is untenable.”
But Mr. Speaker, the status quo then is still the status quo now. In fact, Richard Hooper has been clear that Royal Mail is now actually in a worse position. How has this happened? The previous Government endorsed Richard Hooper’s recommendations and acted on them. They put forward a bill which we in the Liberal Democrats and our coalition partners supported. But sadly it never reached this House and the future of Royal Mail was thereby not secured. The previous Government’s Bill would have allowed private sector investment in Royal Mail. It would have enabled Government to tackle the pension deficit. It would have reformed the regulatory regime for postal services. They are all measures with which we agree, and which form the basis of this current Bill. We agree with these measures because, as Richard Hooper says, they are essential if the universal postal service is to survive.
ROYAL MAIL’S FINANCIAL PROBLEMS
When I came into Government, I was left in no doubt of the real difficulties faced by Royal Mail. I asked Richard Hooper to update his report from December 2008. I wanted to make sure that the conclusions were still valid. They are. Mr Speaker, let none of us in this House be in any doubt as to Royal Mail’s predicament. Yes, there has been some progress and I recognise that. Unions and Management are now working better together. But its pension deficit has ballooned to over £8 billion. Royal Mail now has proportionately the largest pension deficit of any major company in the UK. In addition it loses almost £1million a day on its trading activities. It is an inefficient business in a market that is declining faster than anyone predicted. Hooper now forecasts that letter volumes could fall by as much as 40% over the next five years if nothing is done. That is why we are moving faster and further
WHY WE NEED THIS BILL
The question is what happens if we do not act? We, in this Government, believe we still need a universal postal service, collecting from all postboxes and delivering to all 28 million postal addresses six days a week. And we will still be required under EU law to fund the universal service if no one can provide it commercially. So the taxpayer could be left to pick up the pieces. We cannot predict how much this would cost, or when this would happen if no action is taken. But we know that it would not be cheap. We are not prepared to take this risk with taxpayers’ money. Not with the public finances in the state that they are in. That is why we are determined to press ahead with this Bill.
This is not simply just about making sure that taxpayers do not have to cover the costs. It is also about doing what is right for the future of the company and its employees. Richard Hooper is clear that if his recommendations are taken forward urgently, then Royal Mail does have a potentially healthy future. As my predecessor said, almost 2 years ago, “I believe that Royal Mail and the postal market can thrive in the future, provided that decisive action is taken now”. Well, we are taking action now.
The problems Royal Mail faces are problems we can address through this Bill. After all, it is the only company with the ability to visit all 28 million addresses on a daily basis. It has an unrivalled customer base. And it can build on its position as the leading provider of letters and parcels by providing a new range of digital products to its customers. This Bill is the only way to make that positive future a reality.
SUMMARY OF BILL
Mr. Speaker, I would now like to turn to the substance of the Bill itself.
Mr. Speaker, the Members of this House will find much in this Bill that is familiar. As I have said, in drafting this Bill, we have drawn on much the same evidence as the previous Government. The facts are not in dispute. We have also reached much the same conclusion – that the company needs private sector investment, the pension deficit must be tackled, and the regulatory regime must be reformed. But this Bill is not identical to that of the previous Government. We have taken the opportunity to learn from what has gone before and to develop a new Bill that builds on this Government’s commitment to employee participation. As the member for Wolverhampton South East said when he was minister for postal services “We need a longer-term plan, with a proper buy-in from the work force”. That is exactly what this bill hopes to deliver.
THE POST OFFICE
Let me turn in some detail first of all to the Post Office. As I have said, the Post Office and Royal Mail are different businesses. They face very different challenges. That means our approach has to be different.
The Post Office network is unique. It has around 11,500 branches across the country. It operates in places where other retailers do not. It offers services that other retailers do not. Above all, the Post Office plays an essential social and economic role in our communities.
For that reason, the Post Office will not be for sale. The Bill is absolutely clear on this.
But I am concerned that the current structure of the company is holding the network back. It seems to me that the Post Office is ideally suited to a Co-Operative Group style structure – where employees, sub postmasters and communities get a greater say in how the company is run. The Bill therefore includes a provision that would allow for a possible future mutualisation of the Post Office. Let me be clear that no firm decision on the mutualisation of the Post Office has yet been taken. And there would be a full public consultation before any move to a mutual structure. In the meantime, I have asked Co-operatives UK to explore options for how a mutualised Post Office would work best.
I know that this means setting out on a new course. And I know that before any changes can be made, the network will have to be put on a more secure financial footing. But, and subject to consultation, if it is the right outcome for the network, then I hope that the Post Office could make this transition before the end of this Parliament.
Mr. Speaker, let me further reassure the House on how we are going to put the Post Office on a more secure financial footing.
Communities up and down the country have rightly been concerned about the shrinkage of the Post Office network over previous years. Despite the efforts of members opposite - notably the shadow Chancellor - there has been remorseless decline over the last three decades. The last Government’s closure programmes shut 5000 post offices. I would like to commend Members on all sides of the House who fought against these closures.
Mr. Speaker, those days are over. I would like to echo the words of the shadow chancellor from some years ago. “We had a choice. One was to continue to watch decline turn to crisis and crisis turn to collapse, leaving it as someone else's problem down the road.” But this Government doesn’t believe in passing on problems so we are going to fund in the post office network. When I say fund I don’t mean set aside millions to buy off sub-postmasters when we close their business. We had the option of keeping the network on a care and maintenance basis and letting it decline – this is one we have rejected. I can today announce £1.34bn of new funding for the Post Office over the spending review period. Our funding will be used to reform the current network, to change the underlying economics, and so reverse the years of decline and secure its long term future. I am grateful; particularly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury for understanding, even in a tough spending round. I repeat, there will be no programme of closures under this Government and the Post Office will be able to invest, improve its offer and win new revenue streams.
In addition to funding, we are also injecting new ideas. We have been re-thinking the role of Post Offices in providing Government and banking services, and we will be coming forward shortly with a fuller statement on the Post Office, setting out some new and positive ideas which I hope will command support on all sides of the House and in the country.
Secondly, I would like to reassure the House with respect to the relationship between the Post Office and Royal Mail. The Post Office is currently a subsidiary of Royal Mail. But they are already separate companies and they are very different businesses. As part of our plans for both companies, the Bill will therefore allow for the separation of Royal Mail and the Post Office. Separation will give the Post Office management greater freedom to focus on the branch network and providing new services.
But Mr Speaker, in this case at least, separation is not a first step towards divorce. The Post Office and Royal Mail will continue to work closely together. Each company needs the other. Post Offices carried out over three billion mail transactions for Royal Mail last year. The two companies are closely linked in the public mind, and are bound together by an overwhelming commercial imperative. There is currently a long-term contract in place between the two companies. And there will continue to be a long-term commercial contract in place. The Chief Executive of Royal Mail has said that it would be “unthinkable” that there won’t always be a strong relationship between the Post Office and Royal Mail.
ROYAL MAIL OWNERSHIP
Mr. Speaker, I should now like to turn to Royal Mail.
For the foreseeable future, Royal Mail will be the only company capable of providing the universal postal service. That means that if we want to continue to benefit from a universal service with uniform and affordable prices, we have to equip Royal Mail to survive, and indeed thrive. There is no choice. That was the conclusion of the original Hooper Review commissioned by those opposite and his recent update for the coalition.
Some Members of this House will say that Royal Mail can modernise and survive while remaining in the public sector. They will say that Government can provide the funding Royal Mail needs. That the modernisation agreement in place between the Union and the company is sufficient to stave off the decline in the market.
That is not a view I share. I didn’t share it in Opposition. And I don’t share it now. Nor is it shared by Richard Hooper, or the company itself. Mr. Speaker, let me be quite clear. Government is the wrong shareholder for this company. Given the government’s financial constraints, we cannot invest enough, quickly enough. We cannot invest flexibly enough. And every investment we now make has to be cleared by the European Commission under state aid rules.
Richard Hooper is also clear that Royal Mail cannot modernise properly, cannot take the decisions it needs to take, while it has the threat of political interference hanging over it. Private sector capital will bring with it private sector disciplines, which will allow the company to modernise faster to keep pace with the changes in the market. As the last minister for postal services wisely said, “Unless modernisation happens, the company will be ill equipped to deal with its challenges”.
The Bill will therefore lift the restrictions that currently exist on the sale of shares in Royal Mail.
This is a departure from the previous Government’s Bill. But Mr. Speaker I should remind the House that the purpose of this Bill is not the sale of shares in Royal Mail for its own sake, but rather the protection of the universal postal service and Royal Mail as the only company capable of providing it. It is therefore right that we allow the flexibility to seek the investment required to secure the future of both Royal Mail and the universal postal service.
So I see no reason at this stage for setting an arbitrary target for how much we must sell by when and by which method. These are critical decisions that need to be taken with proper advice and in the full knowledge of market conditions, assessing both value for money and the company’s needs. Of course, Parliament must be kept informed of these decisions, and this Bill requires a report to Parliament once a decision has been taken to begin a sale process. I hope to be in a position to report to Parliament on a sale process in the first half of this Parliament.
In the longer term, I do not believe that there is a need for Government to keep a stake in Royal Mail. But I will ensure that the Government has the flexibility to ensure the right outcome for taxpayers, Royal Mail, and its employees.
EMPLOYEES
Mr. Speaker, it is to the employees that I would now like to turn. The employees of Royal Mail are critical to its ability to modernise and thrive. It will come as no surprise to Members of this House, when I say that Royal Mail has a history of poor industrial relations. Members may have noticed that UNITE announced just two days ago that it would be balloting Royal Mail managers on industrial action.
This recent development aside, I have been heartened by some of the positive steps that have taken place to improve industrial relations. In particular, the agreement with the Communication Workers Union on the modernisation of the business. This agreement accepted that, unfortunately, there would be job losses associated with the modernisation of the business. It accepted too that there would need to be changes to working practices, and that mail centres would close. This plan has already been agreed with the CWU and the company is implementing it right now.
So, yes, there will be job losses. The company is losing money and the market is declining. This is regrettable, but unavoidable. But what happens if we don’t take action? What happens if Royal Mail fails and the market collapses? Which is the current trend.
I know the CWU have been here in Parliament today talking to many Hon. members about their views on this Bill. Both I and my Honourable Friend, the Minister for Postal Affairs, have met with the CWU to discuss Royal Mail. And we look forward to continuing to talk to them as we take this Bill through Parliament.
But I have one thing to say to them directly today: the worst thing for the union members, Royal Mail’s employees, would be to do nothing. This is the real threat to jobs at Royal Mail.
The employees of Royal Mail also deserve better than constant battles between the union and the management. They deserve to be properly engaged in the business that they work for, and to have a real stake in its future. That is the only way that we can break forever the cycle of antagonism and mistrust that has bedevilled the company.
The Bill therefore requires the creation of an employee share scheme, which will hold at least 10% of the equity in Royal Mail in the future.
This is very far from a token gesture, as some have claimed. It is nothing less that the largest employee share scheme of any major privatisation.
PENSIONS
The employees of Royal Mail will also be concerned about their pensions. They have good reason to be concerned. Royal Mail’s pension deficit is huge and growing and extremely volatile. Put simply, it’s not sustainable. Even the recent agreement between the Royal Mail Pension Plan trustees and the company is fragile. It requires that Royal Mail pay off its deficit over 38 years. That’s at least twice as long as any other UK company’s repayment plan. And The Pensions Regulator has already said that it has substantial concerns about this agreement.
The pension deficit threatens the very existence of the company. It is draining cash away from Royal Mail’s modernisation, and prevents it from undertaking the reforms it needs to survive. That is why the Government has to take action. As part of the sale, this Bill will allow Government to take on responsibility for the pension deficit. Not only will we address the deficit but we will also reduce the size of the Royal Mail pension plan to a more manageable level for the business going forward. The liabilities in the Royal Mail are over fifty times annual profits. By comparison the liabilities of the average FTSE 100 company are closer to one times profits. We intend to reduce the plan to about one tenth of its size today. We will do this by creating a new public sector pension scheme which will assume responsibility for paying out the past pension benefits of Royal Mail employees. In effect all members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan will have their past service moved to a new Government scheme like that of the NHS or teachers. It is the same solution to Royal Mail’s pension problems proposed by the Opposition in their 2009 Bill.
I know that honourable members will be concerned about the detail of the proposed pension arrangements and we will be providing a note to Parliament to explain the practical effect of these very complex changes.
But Mr. Speaker, I would like to reassure the House on two points today. Firstly, let me be clear that this is by far the best outcome for the employees of Royal Mail. The action we are taking in the Bill will ensure that all the benefits that employees have earned will be safeguarded. The benefits which will become the responsibility of Government will be protected on the face of the Bill. And all members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan will benefit from this support – Post Office and Royal Mail employees alike.
As a bottom line, the Bill places an obligation on Government to ensure that our action leaves members in no worse position than they were before. That means that the amount of benefits they receive will be as least as good as if the Government had not acted.
There will also be a restriction on Government’s ability to make any changes to the new public scheme in future which would adversely impact members. The Government intends to use this restriction to reflect as closely as possible the current protection members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan are afforded under Section 67 of the 1995 Pensions Act.
Secondly, this is not a cunning plan to massage the Governments accounts. The Royal Mail Pension Plan has a deficit of £8 billion. This is the cost to Government of implementing this solution on behalf of the company and its employees.
Let me be clear: the government is taking on liabilities, which are much bigger than the assets. I have seen reports in recent weeks that the Government will be selling off the Royal Mail Pension Plan’s £24 billion of assets. It is true that the surplus assets above the level needed to leave the ongoing Royal Mail Pension Plan fully funded will be transferred to Government. And it is true these transferred assets will be sold. This is because it makes no sense for Government to sit on a massive investment portfolio. I, for one, do not wish to see Central Government taking a huge investment risk with taxpayers’ money.
So yes, we will sell the portfolio of assets which will transfer across to Government. And yes this is likely to involve over £20 billion of asset sales over time. But the important point is that we will also be making payments to members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan for at least the next fifty years.
The Government’s support to the Royal Mail Pension Plan is subject to State-Aid approval by the European Commission. The House can rest assured that we will be going to Brussels to make this case in the strongest possible terms.
Let there be no doubt – this is a good deal for the employees of Royal Mail. In all important respects, it is exactly the same deal as for my predecessor’s Bill. But coupled with the legal requirement for employee shares, it is a much better deal for employees. It is a solution on which I hope that all sides of the House can agree.
REGULATION
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to turn to the reform of the regulatory regime. At the heart of this Bill, just as the last Bill, is protection of the universal postal service.
Mr. Speaker, this Bill will maintain the universal postal service at its current level. That means six days a week delivery and collection at uniform, affordable prices. I would like to reassure the House that I have no intention of downgrading this service.
I know that some Members in this House have been concerned about their constituents receiving a reduced service. I share that concern. I have therefore ensured that the Bill contains new and stronger protections around the service than is currently the case. Stronger protections too than were in the Bill put forward by my predecessor.
Members may not be aware, but the Government already has the power to reduce the minimum requirements of the universal postal service without even requiring a debate in Parliament. Through the European Communities Act 1972, it can reduce them down to the minimum requirements of the European Postal Directive. That means five days a week and no requirement for uniform pricing.
I do not think that this is an acceptable situation. The Bill therefore puts in place three new safeguards. Firstly, the Bill ensures that no proposal to reduce the minimum requirements of the universal postal service can be proposed until the new regulator, Ofcom, has conducted a review of user needs. Secondly, any proposal to reduce the requirements of the universal postal service must be subject to a majority vote in both Houses. Thirdly, any reduction in the minimum requirements cannot change the uniform nature of the service. The Bill states that the service and the price must be the same across the whole of the UK. I hope members on all sides of the House will support these new protections for the universal postal service.
We will also be taking other measures to secure the universal postal service. The greatest threat to the universal postal service comes from the decline in mail volumes and the rise of email and the internet. It therefore makes sense for the postal sector to be regulated alongside the broader communications market. For that reason, this Bill will transfer responsibility for the regulation of the postal services sector from Postcomm to Ofcom. Ofcom has a deep understanding of the wider communications markets, and will be well placed to take decisions as regulator of postal services. The Bill will also give Ofcom a primary duty to exercise its function as regulator of postal services in a way which it considers will secure the universal postal service. And it will need to consider the financial viability and efficiency of the universal service in taking its decisions.
We want to ensure that the new regulatory framework is proportionate to the needs of the market. We want to allow for rapid deregulation where there is competition. All mail providers need to be able to operate in a fair and effective market as soon as possible.
As an ultimate protection for the universal service, the Bill does include provisions for special arrangements should a universal service provider be at risk of entering into insolvency proceedings. The arrangements would allow the appointment of a postal administrator whose objective would be to ensure that the universal service is maintained. We do not expect ever to have to use these provisions, but they provide an additional safeguard for the universal service. These measures mirror those that have been taken in the energy and water sectors.
CONCLUSION
Mr. Speaker, previous attempts at legislation on Royal Mail have not had a great history of success. There may be opposition to this Bill both inside this House and elsewhere though I think, after 20 years of false starts, that there is now a willingness to do what needs to be done.
Mr. Speaker, there is no easy way out. The problems that Royal Mail faces will not go away. And there will be no winners if we fail to act. Royal Mail’s employees will face continued uncertainty over their pensions and their jobs; customers will face a declining service; and taxpayers will continue to bear all the risk. Ultimately, Richard Hooper is clear that, without this action, Royal Mail will fail.
Royal Mail needs this Bill. The company says so. Richard Hooper says so. The previous Government said so. I say so. I therefore commend this Bill to the House.
INTRODUCTION
Mr. Speaker, let me begin by making it clear why we are here: Royal Mail and the Post Office are two cornerstones of our society. They are different businesses, they are both essential to everyday life in the UK.
Royal Mail is responsible for collecting and delivering our letters. It provides the universal postal service which ensures the collection and delivery of letters and parcels from any postbox to any address in the country. And all at uniform, affordable prices.
The Post Office is an unrivalled network of shops, spread throughout the country. It allows people local access to essential services in the heart of their communities.
The aim of this Bill is to secure the future of these two great institutions and the services they provide and I look forward to the support of members opposite who have genuinely tried to secure the future of Royal Mail and the Post Office network before. They will no doubt agree with me that this must be the last and successful attempt.
HOOPER AND BACKGROUND
Mr Speaker, the sad fact is that the country that pioneered postal services in the 19th Century has been left behind in the 21st Century. The rise of email and the internet has led to a dramatic fall in the number of letters we send. The previous Government were well aware that problem. They commissioned an independent review into the future of the universal postal service, chaired by Richard Hooper. This review found that letter volumes were in structural decline, Royal Mail was in grave financial difficulty, and the universal postal service was under threat. Its conclusion was encapsulated in its title – “Modernise or Decline”. All sides of this House accepted the conclusion that the current system was broken. The company, the union, businesses and commentators – all agreed with the Hooper conclusion when he said “the status quo is untenable.”
But Mr. Speaker, the status quo then is still the status quo now. In fact, Richard Hooper has been clear that Royal Mail is now actually in a worse position. How has this happened? The previous Government endorsed Richard Hooper’s recommendations and acted on them. They put forward a bill which we in the Liberal Democrats and our coalition partners supported. But sadly it never reached this House and the future of Royal Mail was thereby not secured. The previous Government’s Bill would have allowed private sector investment in Royal Mail. It would have enabled Government to tackle the pension deficit. It would have reformed the regulatory regime for postal services. They are all measures with which we agree, and which form the basis of this current Bill. We agree with these measures because, as Richard Hooper says, they are essential if the universal postal service is to survive.
ROYAL MAIL’S FINANCIAL PROBLEMS
When I came into Government, I was left in no doubt of the real difficulties faced by Royal Mail. I asked Richard Hooper to update his report from December 2008. I wanted to make sure that the conclusions were still valid. They are. Mr Speaker, let none of us in this House be in any doubt as to Royal Mail’s predicament. Yes, there has been some progress and I recognise that. Unions and Management are now working better together. But its pension deficit has ballooned to over £8 billion. Royal Mail now has proportionately the largest pension deficit of any major company in the UK. In addition it loses almost £1million a day on its trading activities. It is an inefficient business in a market that is declining faster than anyone predicted. Hooper now forecasts that letter volumes could fall by as much as 40% over the next five years if nothing is done. That is why we are moving faster and further
WHY WE NEED THIS BILL
The question is what happens if we do not act? We, in this Government, believe we still need a universal postal service, collecting from all postboxes and delivering to all 28 million postal addresses six days a week. And we will still be required under EU law to fund the universal service if no one can provide it commercially. So the taxpayer could be left to pick up the pieces. We cannot predict how much this would cost, or when this would happen if no action is taken. But we know that it would not be cheap. We are not prepared to take this risk with taxpayers’ money. Not with the public finances in the state that they are in. That is why we are determined to press ahead with this Bill.
This is not simply just about making sure that taxpayers do not have to cover the costs. It is also about doing what is right for the future of the company and its employees. Richard Hooper is clear that if his recommendations are taken forward urgently, then Royal Mail does have a potentially healthy future. As my predecessor said, almost 2 years ago, “I believe that Royal Mail and the postal market can thrive in the future, provided that decisive action is taken now”. Well, we are taking action now.
The problems Royal Mail faces are problems we can address through this Bill. After all, it is the only company with the ability to visit all 28 million addresses on a daily basis. It has an unrivalled customer base. And it can build on its position as the leading provider of letters and parcels by providing a new range of digital products to its customers. This Bill is the only way to make that positive future a reality.
SUMMARY OF BILL
Mr. Speaker, I would now like to turn to the substance of the Bill itself.
Mr. Speaker, the Members of this House will find much in this Bill that is familiar. As I have said, in drafting this Bill, we have drawn on much the same evidence as the previous Government. The facts are not in dispute. We have also reached much the same conclusion – that the company needs private sector investment, the pension deficit must be tackled, and the regulatory regime must be reformed. But this Bill is not identical to that of the previous Government. We have taken the opportunity to learn from what has gone before and to develop a new Bill that builds on this Government’s commitment to employee participation. As the member for Wolverhampton South East said when he was minister for postal services “We need a longer-term plan, with a proper buy-in from the work force”. That is exactly what this bill hopes to deliver.
THE POST OFFICE
Let me turn in some detail first of all to the Post Office. As I have said, the Post Office and Royal Mail are different businesses. They face very different challenges. That means our approach has to be different.
The Post Office network is unique. It has around 11,500 branches across the country. It operates in places where other retailers do not. It offers services that other retailers do not. Above all, the Post Office plays an essential social and economic role in our communities.
For that reason, the Post Office will not be for sale. The Bill is absolutely clear on this.
But I am concerned that the current structure of the company is holding the network back. It seems to me that the Post Office is ideally suited to a Co-Operative Group style structure – where employees, sub postmasters and communities get a greater say in how the company is run. The Bill therefore includes a provision that would allow for a possible future mutualisation of the Post Office. Let me be clear that no firm decision on the mutualisation of the Post Office has yet been taken. And there would be a full public consultation before any move to a mutual structure. In the meantime, I have asked Co-operatives UK to explore options for how a mutualised Post Office would work best.
I know that this means setting out on a new course. And I know that before any changes can be made, the network will have to be put on a more secure financial footing. But, and subject to consultation, if it is the right outcome for the network, then I hope that the Post Office could make this transition before the end of this Parliament.
Mr. Speaker, let me further reassure the House on how we are going to put the Post Office on a more secure financial footing.
Communities up and down the country have rightly been concerned about the shrinkage of the Post Office network over previous years. Despite the efforts of members opposite - notably the shadow Chancellor - there has been remorseless decline over the last three decades. The last Government’s closure programmes shut 5000 post offices. I would like to commend Members on all sides of the House who fought against these closures.
Mr. Speaker, those days are over. I would like to echo the words of the shadow chancellor from some years ago. “We had a choice. One was to continue to watch decline turn to crisis and crisis turn to collapse, leaving it as someone else's problem down the road.” But this Government doesn’t believe in passing on problems so we are going to fund in the post office network. When I say fund I don’t mean set aside millions to buy off sub-postmasters when we close their business. We had the option of keeping the network on a care and maintenance basis and letting it decline – this is one we have rejected. I can today announce £1.34bn of new funding for the Post Office over the spending review period. Our funding will be used to reform the current network, to change the underlying economics, and so reverse the years of decline and secure its long term future. I am grateful; particularly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury for understanding, even in a tough spending round. I repeat, there will be no programme of closures under this Government and the Post Office will be able to invest, improve its offer and win new revenue streams.
In addition to funding, we are also injecting new ideas. We have been re-thinking the role of Post Offices in providing Government and banking services, and we will be coming forward shortly with a fuller statement on the Post Office, setting out some new and positive ideas which I hope will command support on all sides of the House and in the country.
Secondly, I would like to reassure the House with respect to the relationship between the Post Office and Royal Mail. The Post Office is currently a subsidiary of Royal Mail. But they are already separate companies and they are very different businesses. As part of our plans for both companies, the Bill will therefore allow for the separation of Royal Mail and the Post Office. Separation will give the Post Office management greater freedom to focus on the branch network and providing new services.
But Mr Speaker, in this case at least, separation is not a first step towards divorce. The Post Office and Royal Mail will continue to work closely together. Each company needs the other. Post Offices carried out over three billion mail transactions for Royal Mail last year. The two companies are closely linked in the public mind, and are bound together by an overwhelming commercial imperative. There is currently a long-term contract in place between the two companies. And there will continue to be a long-term commercial contract in place. The Chief Executive of Royal Mail has said that it would be “unthinkable” that there won’t always be a strong relationship between the Post Office and Royal Mail.
ROYAL MAIL OWNERSHIP
Mr. Speaker, I should now like to turn to Royal Mail.
For the foreseeable future, Royal Mail will be the only company capable of providing the universal postal service. That means that if we want to continue to benefit from a universal service with uniform and affordable prices, we have to equip Royal Mail to survive, and indeed thrive. There is no choice. That was the conclusion of the original Hooper Review commissioned by those opposite and his recent update for the coalition.
Some Members of this House will say that Royal Mail can modernise and survive while remaining in the public sector. They will say that Government can provide the funding Royal Mail needs. That the modernisation agreement in place between the Union and the company is sufficient to stave off the decline in the market.
That is not a view I share. I didn’t share it in Opposition. And I don’t share it now. Nor is it shared by Richard Hooper, or the company itself. Mr. Speaker, let me be quite clear. Government is the wrong shareholder for this company. Given the government’s financial constraints, we cannot invest enough, quickly enough. We cannot invest flexibly enough. And every investment we now make has to be cleared by the European Commission under state aid rules.
Richard Hooper is also clear that Royal Mail cannot modernise properly, cannot take the decisions it needs to take, while it has the threat of political interference hanging over it. Private sector capital will bring with it private sector disciplines, which will allow the company to modernise faster to keep pace with the changes in the market. As the last minister for postal services wisely said, “Unless modernisation happens, the company will be ill equipped to deal with its challenges”.
The Bill will therefore lift the restrictions that currently exist on the sale of shares in Royal Mail.
This is a departure from the previous Government’s Bill. But Mr. Speaker I should remind the House that the purpose of this Bill is not the sale of shares in Royal Mail for its own sake, but rather the protection of the universal postal service and Royal Mail as the only company capable of providing it. It is therefore right that we allow the flexibility to seek the investment required to secure the future of both Royal Mail and the universal postal service.
So I see no reason at this stage for setting an arbitrary target for how much we must sell by when and by which method. These are critical decisions that need to be taken with proper advice and in the full knowledge of market conditions, assessing both value for money and the company’s needs. Of course, Parliament must be kept informed of these decisions, and this Bill requires a report to Parliament once a decision has been taken to begin a sale process. I hope to be in a position to report to Parliament on a sale process in the first half of this Parliament.
In the longer term, I do not believe that there is a need for Government to keep a stake in Royal Mail. But I will ensure that the Government has the flexibility to ensure the right outcome for taxpayers, Royal Mail, and its employees.
EMPLOYEES
Mr. Speaker, it is to the employees that I would now like to turn. The employees of Royal Mail are critical to its ability to modernise and thrive. It will come as no surprise to Members of this House, when I say that Royal Mail has a history of poor industrial relations. Members may have noticed that UNITE announced just two days ago that it would be balloting Royal Mail managers on industrial action.
This recent development aside, I have been heartened by some of the positive steps that have taken place to improve industrial relations. In particular, the agreement with the Communication Workers Union on the modernisation of the business. This agreement accepted that, unfortunately, there would be job losses associated with the modernisation of the business. It accepted too that there would need to be changes to working practices, and that mail centres would close. This plan has already been agreed with the CWU and the company is implementing it right now.
So, yes, there will be job losses. The company is losing money and the market is declining. This is regrettable, but unavoidable. But what happens if we don’t take action? What happens if Royal Mail fails and the market collapses? Which is the current trend.
I know the CWU have been here in Parliament today talking to many Hon. members about their views on this Bill. Both I and my Honourable Friend, the Minister for Postal Affairs, have met with the CWU to discuss Royal Mail. And we look forward to continuing to talk to them as we take this Bill through Parliament.
But I have one thing to say to them directly today: the worst thing for the union members, Royal Mail’s employees, would be to do nothing. This is the real threat to jobs at Royal Mail.
The employees of Royal Mail also deserve better than constant battles between the union and the management. They deserve to be properly engaged in the business that they work for, and to have a real stake in its future. That is the only way that we can break forever the cycle of antagonism and mistrust that has bedevilled the company.
The Bill therefore requires the creation of an employee share scheme, which will hold at least 10% of the equity in Royal Mail in the future.
This is very far from a token gesture, as some have claimed. It is nothing less that the largest employee share scheme of any major privatisation.
PENSIONS
The employees of Royal Mail will also be concerned about their pensions. They have good reason to be concerned. Royal Mail’s pension deficit is huge and growing and extremely volatile. Put simply, it’s not sustainable. Even the recent agreement between the Royal Mail Pension Plan trustees and the company is fragile. It requires that Royal Mail pay off its deficit over 38 years. That’s at least twice as long as any other UK company’s repayment plan. And The Pensions Regulator has already said that it has substantial concerns about this agreement.
The pension deficit threatens the very existence of the company. It is draining cash away from Royal Mail’s modernisation, and prevents it from undertaking the reforms it needs to survive. That is why the Government has to take action. As part of the sale, this Bill will allow Government to take on responsibility for the pension deficit. Not only will we address the deficit but we will also reduce the size of the Royal Mail pension plan to a more manageable level for the business going forward. The liabilities in the Royal Mail are over fifty times annual profits. By comparison the liabilities of the average FTSE 100 company are closer to one times profits. We intend to reduce the plan to about one tenth of its size today. We will do this by creating a new public sector pension scheme which will assume responsibility for paying out the past pension benefits of Royal Mail employees. In effect all members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan will have their past service moved to a new Government scheme like that of the NHS or teachers. It is the same solution to Royal Mail’s pension problems proposed by the Opposition in their 2009 Bill.
I know that honourable members will be concerned about the detail of the proposed pension arrangements and we will be providing a note to Parliament to explain the practical effect of these very complex changes.
But Mr. Speaker, I would like to reassure the House on two points today. Firstly, let me be clear that this is by far the best outcome for the employees of Royal Mail. The action we are taking in the Bill will ensure that all the benefits that employees have earned will be safeguarded. The benefits which will become the responsibility of Government will be protected on the face of the Bill. And all members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan will benefit from this support – Post Office and Royal Mail employees alike.
As a bottom line, the Bill places an obligation on Government to ensure that our action leaves members in no worse position than they were before. That means that the amount of benefits they receive will be as least as good as if the Government had not acted.
There will also be a restriction on Government’s ability to make any changes to the new public scheme in future which would adversely impact members. The Government intends to use this restriction to reflect as closely as possible the current protection members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan are afforded under Section 67 of the 1995 Pensions Act.
Secondly, this is not a cunning plan to massage the Governments accounts. The Royal Mail Pension Plan has a deficit of £8 billion. This is the cost to Government of implementing this solution on behalf of the company and its employees.
Let me be clear: the government is taking on liabilities, which are much bigger than the assets. I have seen reports in recent weeks that the Government will be selling off the Royal Mail Pension Plan’s £24 billion of assets. It is true that the surplus assets above the level needed to leave the ongoing Royal Mail Pension Plan fully funded will be transferred to Government. And it is true these transferred assets will be sold. This is because it makes no sense for Government to sit on a massive investment portfolio. I, for one, do not wish to see Central Government taking a huge investment risk with taxpayers’ money.
So yes, we will sell the portfolio of assets which will transfer across to Government. And yes this is likely to involve over £20 billion of asset sales over time. But the important point is that we will also be making payments to members of the Royal Mail Pension Plan for at least the next fifty years.
The Government’s support to the Royal Mail Pension Plan is subject to State-Aid approval by the European Commission. The House can rest assured that we will be going to Brussels to make this case in the strongest possible terms.
Let there be no doubt – this is a good deal for the employees of Royal Mail. In all important respects, it is exactly the same deal as for my predecessor’s Bill. But coupled with the legal requirement for employee shares, it is a much better deal for employees. It is a solution on which I hope that all sides of the House can agree.
REGULATION
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to turn to the reform of the regulatory regime. At the heart of this Bill, just as the last Bill, is protection of the universal postal service.
Mr. Speaker, this Bill will maintain the universal postal service at its current level. That means six days a week delivery and collection at uniform, affordable prices. I would like to reassure the House that I have no intention of downgrading this service.
I know that some Members in this House have been concerned about their constituents receiving a reduced service. I share that concern. I have therefore ensured that the Bill contains new and stronger protections around the service than is currently the case. Stronger protections too than were in the Bill put forward by my predecessor.
Members may not be aware, but the Government already has the power to reduce the minimum requirements of the universal postal service without even requiring a debate in Parliament. Through the European Communities Act 1972, it can reduce them down to the minimum requirements of the European Postal Directive. That means five days a week and no requirement for uniform pricing.
I do not think that this is an acceptable situation. The Bill therefore puts in place three new safeguards. Firstly, the Bill ensures that no proposal to reduce the minimum requirements of the universal postal service can be proposed until the new regulator, Ofcom, has conducted a review of user needs. Secondly, any proposal to reduce the requirements of the universal postal service must be subject to a majority vote in both Houses. Thirdly, any reduction in the minimum requirements cannot change the uniform nature of the service. The Bill states that the service and the price must be the same across the whole of the UK. I hope members on all sides of the House will support these new protections for the universal postal service.
We will also be taking other measures to secure the universal postal service. The greatest threat to the universal postal service comes from the decline in mail volumes and the rise of email and the internet. It therefore makes sense for the postal sector to be regulated alongside the broader communications market. For that reason, this Bill will transfer responsibility for the regulation of the postal services sector from Postcomm to Ofcom. Ofcom has a deep understanding of the wider communications markets, and will be well placed to take decisions as regulator of postal services. The Bill will also give Ofcom a primary duty to exercise its function as regulator of postal services in a way which it considers will secure the universal postal service. And it will need to consider the financial viability and efficiency of the universal service in taking its decisions.
We want to ensure that the new regulatory framework is proportionate to the needs of the market. We want to allow for rapid deregulation where there is competition. All mail providers need to be able to operate in a fair and effective market as soon as possible.
As an ultimate protection for the universal service, the Bill does include provisions for special arrangements should a universal service provider be at risk of entering into insolvency proceedings. The arrangements would allow the appointment of a postal administrator whose objective would be to ensure that the universal service is maintained. We do not expect ever to have to use these provisions, but they provide an additional safeguard for the universal service. These measures mirror those that have been taken in the energy and water sectors.
CONCLUSION
Mr. Speaker, previous attempts at legislation on Royal Mail have not had a great history of success. There may be opposition to this Bill both inside this House and elsewhere though I think, after 20 years of false starts, that there is now a willingness to do what needs to be done.
Mr. Speaker, there is no easy way out. The problems that Royal Mail faces will not go away. And there will be no winners if we fail to act. Royal Mail’s employees will face continued uncertainty over their pensions and their jobs; customers will face a declining service; and taxpayers will continue to bear all the risk. Ultimately, Richard Hooper is clear that, without this action, Royal Mail will fail.
Royal Mail needs this Bill. The company says so. Richard Hooper says so. The previous Government said so. I say so. I therefore commend this Bill to the House.
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