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 10th January 2011
Time: 20:30
Title: Midweek: An Diugh
An opportunity to see how the BBC's Midweek series reported on the West Highland Free Press and the 7:84 theatre company in
1974, and how both have fared since then.
Transmitted: Monday 10th January 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach / Sheepdog Trials
Sheepdog Trials from the Hebridean circuit in Berneray.
Transmitted: Tuesday 11th January 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Na Ceiltich / Celtic History
The Celtic History series looks to see if the Celtic nations are going through a revitalisation in the 21st century.
Transmitted: Wednesday 12th January 2011
Time: 22:30
Title: Triuir
The Campbell sisters are the best known triplets in the Hebrides. But behind the incredible story of their dramatic birth and meeting the Queen, lies a tale of loss and separation, hardship and poverty, amid much laughter and tears.
Growing up on the island of Uist, their unique lives have been the subject of great scrutiny, starting with their well-documented birth, through their school days, work life, marriage and children. Now, on the eve of retirement, having experienced poverty, separation, family tragedy and loss, the return of youngest sister Theresa to the island gives them the chance to finally get what they have always longed for - the opportunity to be together.
Transmitted: Friday 14th January 2011
Time: 21:00
Friday, 7 January 2011
MPs urge Government to secure viable postal network in Scotland
In a report published today on postal services in Scotland, the Scottish Affairs Committee says the Government's assurances regarding its intentions for the universal service obligation and the Post Office network are welcome, but need to be reinforced. The Committee recommends that, where appropriate, this would be best achieved by amendments to the Postal Services Bill or, at least, by clear statements during the Bill's passage.
The Committee's report considers two key issues: the maintenance of a universal service and the continuation of a sustainable Post Office network across Scotland.
The issues of privatisation and the pension deficit are UK wide issues which have been considered widely elsewhere, and the Committee has not examined these in its report.
Ian Davidson MP, Chair of the Committee, said: "We welcome much of what the minister said to us in evidence regarding protections in the Bill for the universal service obligation, particularly his assurance that a vote in both Houses of Parliament would be required before the six day a week delivery and collection service and universal tariff could be changed Q322 Chair: ... to be absolutely clear. To change from collecting letters six days a week, with one price for everywhere, the clause specifies that the matter has to come back to Parliament and has to be the subject of an order that is voted upon in both Houses...
Edward Davey, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, BIS: Yes.
.
"What is much less clear is the long term future of the Post Office network. Good intentions are all very well, but the lack of solidity in assurances regarding the postal network is worrying.
"Postal services and the postal network are the life blood of many rural, remote and island communities throughout Scotland and the survival of many small businesses depends on the network. Yet it remains unclear how the Postal Services Bill will protect consumers in deprived urban, rural and remote areas of Scotland."
Assurances by the business minister that the Bill would not allow Scotland to be made exempt from the universal service obligation (USO) because it is a 'geographic' exception are welcome, says the Committee.
However, further clarification is needed on clause 34 which allows Ofcom to designate more than one universal service provider.
A requirement should be included in the Bill for Ofcom to consult with consumers, small businesses and vulnerable users in remote, rural and island communities in Scotland before it recommends any changes to the existing USO - the Committee warns that any changes could have a disproportionate impact on these communities.
There are considerable advantages to a long, stable and robust relationship between Royal Mail Group and Post Office Ltd and the Committee recommends that a ten year Inter Business Agreement should be reached prior to any sale of Royal Mail.
In relation to the Post Office network, the Bill makes no provision for the number of Post Offices and does not set out criteria for access to the network. The Committee warns that the latter is of particular concern because the current criteria could be met by 7,500 branches rather than the existing 11,500 branches. This could lead to many closures in Scotland.
The Committee recommends that the Government gives assurances to preserving the existing network of branches during the passage of the Bill.
Elements of Outreach Post Offices, which replaced 102 Post Office branches in rural and remote parts of Scotland, are not sufficiently robust or reliable to provide an adequate service, according to the Committee, and it fears the new Post Office Local risks downgrading the service further. Improvements should be delivered as a matter of urgency.
The Committee also criticises government departments' lack of joined up thinking in relation to guaranteeing the sustainability and viability of the network by channelling services through Post Offices where appropriate, and says if tangible benefits are not delivered soon, the risk of closure of many Scottish Post Offices remains.
The Committee's report considers two key issues: the maintenance of a universal service and the continuation of a sustainable Post Office network across Scotland.
The issues of privatisation and the pension deficit are UK wide issues which have been considered widely elsewhere, and the Committee has not examined these in its report.
Ian Davidson MP, Chair of the Committee, said: "We welcome much of what the minister said to us in evidence regarding protections in the Bill for the universal service obligation, particularly his assurance that a vote in both Houses of Parliament would be required before the six day a week delivery and collection service and universal tariff could be changed Q322 Chair: ... to be absolutely clear. To change from collecting letters six days a week, with one price for everywhere, the clause specifies that the matter has to come back to Parliament and has to be the subject of an order that is voted upon in both Houses...
Edward Davey, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, BIS: Yes.
.
"What is much less clear is the long term future of the Post Office network. Good intentions are all very well, but the lack of solidity in assurances regarding the postal network is worrying.
"Postal services and the postal network are the life blood of many rural, remote and island communities throughout Scotland and the survival of many small businesses depends on the network. Yet it remains unclear how the Postal Services Bill will protect consumers in deprived urban, rural and remote areas of Scotland."
Assurances by the business minister that the Bill would not allow Scotland to be made exempt from the universal service obligation (USO) because it is a 'geographic' exception are welcome, says the Committee.
However, further clarification is needed on clause 34 which allows Ofcom to designate more than one universal service provider.
A requirement should be included in the Bill for Ofcom to consult with consumers, small businesses and vulnerable users in remote, rural and island communities in Scotland before it recommends any changes to the existing USO - the Committee warns that any changes could have a disproportionate impact on these communities.
There are considerable advantages to a long, stable and robust relationship between Royal Mail Group and Post Office Ltd and the Committee recommends that a ten year Inter Business Agreement should be reached prior to any sale of Royal Mail.
In relation to the Post Office network, the Bill makes no provision for the number of Post Offices and does not set out criteria for access to the network. The Committee warns that the latter is of particular concern because the current criteria could be met by 7,500 branches rather than the existing 11,500 branches. This could lead to many closures in Scotland.
The Committee recommends that the Government gives assurances to preserving the existing network of branches during the passage of the Bill.
Elements of Outreach Post Offices, which replaced 102 Post Office branches in rural and remote parts of Scotland, are not sufficiently robust or reliable to provide an adequate service, according to the Committee, and it fears the new Post Office Local risks downgrading the service further. Improvements should be delivered as a matter of urgency.
The Committee also criticises government departments' lack of joined up thinking in relation to guaranteeing the sustainability and viability of the network by channelling services through Post Offices where appropriate, and says if tangible benefits are not delivered soon, the risk of closure of many Scottish Post Offices remains.
Whisky industry toasts new workplace learning initiative
Skills Development Scotland supports the Scotch Whisky Association to offer spirits industry qualification.
Recognition of their market-leading skills will mean Scotland’s whisky industry workers will be among the most highly-qualified in the global spirits industry, thanks to a new workplace learning initiative.
Skills Development Scotland has teamed up with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) to provide funding aimed at encouraging an additional 200 whisky workers to gain a Spirit Industry Vocational Qualification (SIVQ).
Celebrating the development, new skills minister Angela Constance paid a festive season visit to the North British Distillery in Edinburgh. The SIVQ has been designed by the Scotch Whisky Association to recognise the expertise of employees across the entire whisky production process – from distilling to bottling.
Supported by the SWA’s 56 member companies, the aim of the SIVQ is to standardise good practice and allow skills to be recognised across the industry – helping employees climb the career ladder and ensuring companies know their staff can perform their duties to high standards.
Health, Safety and Skills Manager at the SWA Alison Galbraith said: "The Scotch Whisky industry is a cornerstone of the Scottish economy, worth around £4 billion a year.
"Over 10,000 people are employed in the sector and it is vital we recognise and capture their skills if this industry is to keep growing.
"Our intention is to help whisky employees understand how their roles can develop and demonstrate that the industry offers a proper career with the opportunity to learn and grow as their skills improve."
Angela Constance, Minister for Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “The multi-billion pound Scotch Whisky industry is culturally and economically integral to Scotland, employing more than 10,000 people throughout the country.
"Although the industry continues to grow, it is important that the specialised skills its workforce develops are standardised allowing skills to be transferred and for individuals to build successful careers.
"That is why I am delighted with the creation of this scheme and I am particularly pleased that it comes as Scotland celebrates the year of food and drink."
On completion of a minimum of eight units, candidates achieve the SIVQ, awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority.
This qualification is level 5 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework and is comparable to an SVQ level 2.
Strategic Relations Manager, Food and Drink at Skills Development Scotland Gerry McBride said: “While rooted in centuries of tradition, the whisky industry in Scotland is taking huge strides to ensure its workforce is equipped with the skills to meet the demands of the 21st century global economy.
"The industry takes training very seriously and is showing a real commitment to placing skills at the core of its business.
"The formalising of a qualification which clearly demonstrates the recipients have the skills required by the industry is a significant step forward and shows this is a sector which values its employees."
The Scotch Whisky industry is second only to oil and gas in terms of productivity per employee, with a GVA of over £262,000 - nearly six times as productive as the average Scottish worker.
Companies within the industry are already seeing the benefits from the scheme.
David Rae, Managing Director at The North British Distillery Company, said: "The SIVQ scheme is an important part of skills development within the Scotch Whisky industry. It will develop job knowledge and understanding, and lead to increased workforce motivation.
"As we continually strive for the best standards in every area of our whisky-making, initiatives like SIVQs only further help us to realise this."
Recognition of their market-leading skills will mean Scotland’s whisky industry workers will be among the most highly-qualified in the global spirits industry, thanks to a new workplace learning initiative.
Skills Development Scotland has teamed up with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) to provide funding aimed at encouraging an additional 200 whisky workers to gain a Spirit Industry Vocational Qualification (SIVQ).
Celebrating the development, new skills minister Angela Constance paid a festive season visit to the North British Distillery in Edinburgh. The SIVQ has been designed by the Scotch Whisky Association to recognise the expertise of employees across the entire whisky production process – from distilling to bottling.
Supported by the SWA’s 56 member companies, the aim of the SIVQ is to standardise good practice and allow skills to be recognised across the industry – helping employees climb the career ladder and ensuring companies know their staff can perform their duties to high standards.
Health, Safety and Skills Manager at the SWA Alison Galbraith said: "The Scotch Whisky industry is a cornerstone of the Scottish economy, worth around £4 billion a year.
"Over 10,000 people are employed in the sector and it is vital we recognise and capture their skills if this industry is to keep growing.
"Our intention is to help whisky employees understand how their roles can develop and demonstrate that the industry offers a proper career with the opportunity to learn and grow as their skills improve."
Angela Constance, Minister for Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “The multi-billion pound Scotch Whisky industry is culturally and economically integral to Scotland, employing more than 10,000 people throughout the country.
"Although the industry continues to grow, it is important that the specialised skills its workforce develops are standardised allowing skills to be transferred and for individuals to build successful careers.
"That is why I am delighted with the creation of this scheme and I am particularly pleased that it comes as Scotland celebrates the year of food and drink."
On completion of a minimum of eight units, candidates achieve the SIVQ, awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority.
This qualification is level 5 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework and is comparable to an SVQ level 2.
Strategic Relations Manager, Food and Drink at Skills Development Scotland Gerry McBride said: “While rooted in centuries of tradition, the whisky industry in Scotland is taking huge strides to ensure its workforce is equipped with the skills to meet the demands of the 21st century global economy.
"The industry takes training very seriously and is showing a real commitment to placing skills at the core of its business.
"The formalising of a qualification which clearly demonstrates the recipients have the skills required by the industry is a significant step forward and shows this is a sector which values its employees."
The Scotch Whisky industry is second only to oil and gas in terms of productivity per employee, with a GVA of over £262,000 - nearly six times as productive as the average Scottish worker.
Companies within the industry are already seeing the benefits from the scheme.
David Rae, Managing Director at The North British Distillery Company, said: "The SIVQ scheme is an important part of skills development within the Scotch Whisky industry. It will develop job knowledge and understanding, and lead to increased workforce motivation.
"As we continually strive for the best standards in every area of our whisky-making, initiatives like SIVQs only further help us to realise this."
Mather urges uptake of Flu Jab
Argyll & Bute MSP Jim Mather is urging at-risk groups to get their free flu vaccination. Jim Mather is concerned that many people are unaware that they are eligible for a free jab including pregnant women.
Jim Mather said:
“It only takes a minute to get a jab, but it will keep you protected for 12 months, and could potentially save your life. I would urge people to make an appointment with their GP for their free vaccination. I am keen that my constituents who are pregnant realise that they are now included in the at-risk category.”
All pregnant woman are eligible, as are:
Anyone over 65 is eligible to receive a free flu jab, as is anyone who has:
- Serious breathing problems, e.g. severe asthma needing inhaled or oral steroids.
- Serious heart conditions
- Severe kidney or liver disease
- Diabetes controlled by diet or medication, e.g.insulin or hypoglycaemic drugs.
- Lower immunity due to disease or treatment e.g.chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment for cancer or long-term steroid use.
- Problems with the spleen, either because the spleen has been removed (asplenia) or doesn’t work properly, e.g. sickle cell disease.
- Individuals with the following neurological conditions: Cerebrovascular disease (principally stroke and transient ischaemic attacks) (TIAs);
- Multiple Sclerosis and related conditions; and hereditary and degenerative disease of the Central Nervous System
- Any other serious medical condition – if you are not sure about your health or need further advice, please speak to your doctor, practice nurse or pharmacist
In addition, healthcare workers and carers are also eligible. Anyone who has a serious allergy to hen’s eggs, or has had a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccine, should not get the vaccine
Jim Mather said:
“It only takes a minute to get a jab, but it will keep you protected for 12 months, and could potentially save your life. I would urge people to make an appointment with their GP for their free vaccination. I am keen that my constituents who are pregnant realise that they are now included in the at-risk category.”
All pregnant woman are eligible, as are:
Anyone over 65 is eligible to receive a free flu jab, as is anyone who has:
- Serious breathing problems, e.g. severe asthma needing inhaled or oral steroids.
- Serious heart conditions
- Severe kidney or liver disease
- Diabetes controlled by diet or medication, e.g.insulin or hypoglycaemic drugs.
- Lower immunity due to disease or treatment e.g.chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment for cancer or long-term steroid use.
- Problems with the spleen, either because the spleen has been removed (asplenia) or doesn’t work properly, e.g. sickle cell disease.
- Individuals with the following neurological conditions: Cerebrovascular disease (principally stroke and transient ischaemic attacks) (TIAs);
- Multiple Sclerosis and related conditions; and hereditary and degenerative disease of the Central Nervous System
- Any other serious medical condition – if you are not sure about your health or need further advice, please speak to your doctor, practice nurse or pharmacist
In addition, healthcare workers and carers are also eligible. Anyone who has a serious allergy to hen’s eggs, or has had a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccine, should not get the vaccine
ISLAY SALE – 13th DEC 2010
(Islay Lambs sell to £79.50 at Last Sale of Year)
United Auctions held their last sale of the year at Islay Auction Mart when 2786 head of Lambs & Sheep were sold. All classes met a spirited trade with Texel Cross Lambs from No6 Bayview selling to £79.50. Blackface Lambs were an exceptional trade with the top price coming from the Keppols consignment realising £67.50. The Coull consignment of Lambs led the prices per kilo when their Suffolk Crosses sold to 187 pence. Cast Ewes from Craigens sold to £82.50 for Charolais.
PRINCIPAL LOTS & PRICES
TOP PRICES PER HEAD
LAMBS
SUFFx:
£74.00 – Octofad : £72.00 – Eorrabus : £71.50 – Coull & Octofad : £71.00 – Neriby & Duich: £70.00 – Starchmill : £69.50 – Coull : £69.00 – Octofad : £68.00 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £66.00 – Coille : £65.50 – Coull & Duich : £65.00 – Ardbeg & Coille : £64.00 – Kilchiaran : £63.50 – Octofad : £62.50 – Kintra : £61.50 – Ardbeg & 2 Ballinaby : £60.00 – Machrie Croft.
TEXx:
£79.50, £76.50 & £75.00 – 6 Bayview : £75.00 – Neriby : £70.50 – 6 Bayview : £69.50 – Leorin & Neriby : £68.00 – Gartloist : £67.00 – Coull : £66.50 – Coille : £65.50 – Coull : £65.00 – Balimartin : £62.00 – Ardbeg : £61.50 – Carrabus.
CHEVx:
£65.00 – Coull
CROSS
£69.00 – Coillabus : £66.00 – Keppols : £64.50 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £62.00 – Eorrabus.
BF
£67.50 – Keppols & Kilchiaran : £64.50 – Carn : £60.50 – Duich & Ardbeg : £60.00 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £58.50 – Keppols, Kilchiaran & Ardbeg : £57.00 – Coull : £56.00 – Duich.
EWES
TEXx:
£58.50 – Ardbeg & Dunlossit Estate.
CHARx:
£82.50 – Craigens
CROSS
£74.50 & £65.50 – Octofad : £65.00 – Coull.
BF
£49.00 – Coull : £45.50 – Ardbeg : £45.00 – Lossit.
TOP PRICES PER KILO
LAMBS
SUFFx:
187p – Coull : 169p – Octofad : 168p – Ballinaby & Coull : 167p – Machrie Croft.
TEXx:
177p – Carrabus : 173p – 6 Bayview : 168p – Coille & Coull : 167p – Coille : 166p – Carrabus & 6 Bayview.
CHEVx:
169p – Kilbride : 165p – Coull : 162p – Ballychattrigan.
CROSS
171p – Coille : 164p – Coull & Coillabus.
BF
170p – Coull : 168p – Kintra : 166p – Dunlossit Estate & Coille : 165p & 163p – Kilchiaran : 162p – Duich : 161p – Coille & Kilchiaran : 160p – Ballinaby, Kilchiaran & Lossit.
United Auctions held their last sale of the year at Islay Auction Mart when 2786 head of Lambs & Sheep were sold. All classes met a spirited trade with Texel Cross Lambs from No6 Bayview selling to £79.50. Blackface Lambs were an exceptional trade with the top price coming from the Keppols consignment realising £67.50. The Coull consignment of Lambs led the prices per kilo when their Suffolk Crosses sold to 187 pence. Cast Ewes from Craigens sold to £82.50 for Charolais.
PRINCIPAL LOTS & PRICES
TOP PRICES PER HEAD
LAMBS
SUFFx:
£74.00 – Octofad : £72.00 – Eorrabus : £71.50 – Coull & Octofad : £71.00 – Neriby & Duich: £70.00 – Starchmill : £69.50 – Coull : £69.00 – Octofad : £68.00 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £66.00 – Coille : £65.50 – Coull & Duich : £65.00 – Ardbeg & Coille : £64.00 – Kilchiaran : £63.50 – Octofad : £62.50 – Kintra : £61.50 – Ardbeg & 2 Ballinaby : £60.00 – Machrie Croft.
TEXx:
£79.50, £76.50 & £75.00 – 6 Bayview : £75.00 – Neriby : £70.50 – 6 Bayview : £69.50 – Leorin & Neriby : £68.00 – Gartloist : £67.00 – Coull : £66.50 – Coille : £65.50 – Coull : £65.00 – Balimartin : £62.00 – Ardbeg : £61.50 – Carrabus.
CHEVx:
£65.00 – Coull
CROSS
£69.00 – Coillabus : £66.00 – Keppols : £64.50 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £62.00 – Eorrabus.
BF
£67.50 – Keppols & Kilchiaran : £64.50 – Carn : £60.50 – Duich & Ardbeg : £60.00 – Ballinaby (Mrs Warren) : £58.50 – Keppols, Kilchiaran & Ardbeg : £57.00 – Coull : £56.00 – Duich.
EWES
TEXx:
£58.50 – Ardbeg & Dunlossit Estate.
CHARx:
£82.50 – Craigens
CROSS
£74.50 & £65.50 – Octofad : £65.00 – Coull.
BF
£49.00 – Coull : £45.50 – Ardbeg : £45.00 – Lossit.
TOP PRICES PER KILO
LAMBS
SUFFx:
187p – Coull : 169p – Octofad : 168p – Ballinaby & Coull : 167p – Machrie Croft.
TEXx:
177p – Carrabus : 173p – 6 Bayview : 168p – Coille & Coull : 167p – Coille : 166p – Carrabus & 6 Bayview.
CHEVx:
169p – Kilbride : 165p – Coull : 162p – Ballychattrigan.
CROSS
171p – Coille : 164p – Coull & Coillabus.
BF
170p – Coull : 168p – Kintra : 166p – Dunlossit Estate & Coille : 165p & 163p – Kilchiaran : 162p – Duich : 161p – Coille & Kilchiaran : 160p – Ballinaby, Kilchiaran & Lossit.
Council reacts to above-average budget cut by Scottish Government
Argyll and Bute Council has reacted with disbelief to news from the Scottish Government that it will face a 4.94% reduction in its funding – almost double the average reduction across the rest of Scotland.
The council will receive a grant of £220.059 million in 2011-12, compared with £231.488 million received in 2010-11 – a drop of £11.429 million.
Across Scotland the average reduction is 2.59%. Argyll and Bute Council’s decrease is £5.434m more than if it had received the average cut.
Dick Walsh, leader of the council, has asked the Scottish Government to explain why residents of Argyll and Bute are expected to shoulder more than their fair share of government cuts.
He explains:
“It is clear that these figures are much worse than forecast. The council is facing the biggest reduction of any council in Scotland. The reduction of 4.94% is almost double that of the average.
There are still issues we are seeking clarification on as we do not understand why we are being penalised with such a big reduction in funding.”
The council had been accused of planning for too-bleak a future through its own budget processes. Councillor Walsh believes this prudent approach is now justified.
“It is disappointing that Ministers and MSPs have publicly stated that the council's settlement was much better than had been expected and then be party to a cut in our funding that is double that of the average.”
Councillor Walsh is also concerned that the cuts will impact on important front line council services.
“That the cuts stem from changes in SINA (Special Islands Needs Allowances) and the ‘supporting people’ allocation, suggest a complete disregard for our most vulnerable communities and vulnerable citizens by the Scottish Government.”
The council is now discussing the implications of the settlement with COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) and with the Scottish Government, to understand if the variation from the average is correct and if not, to have it put right.
If they are correct the implications of this one-year budget will impact Argyll and Bute for many years.
Councillor Walsh continued:
“It is disappointing the settlement is for one year only as that makes delivering a sustainable medium term budget that protects services difficult to achieve. However that we now start from a funding base over £5m lower than expected will make this a near impossible task. It’s not just £5m less for next year it means we start 2012-13 and 2013-14 from a base that is £5m lower.”
When combined with cost and demand pressures and rising inflation the actual budget reduction faced by the council is between £15 million and £16 million.
The council will receive a grant of £220.059 million in 2011-12, compared with £231.488 million received in 2010-11 – a drop of £11.429 million.
Across Scotland the average reduction is 2.59%. Argyll and Bute Council’s decrease is £5.434m more than if it had received the average cut.
Dick Walsh, leader of the council, has asked the Scottish Government to explain why residents of Argyll and Bute are expected to shoulder more than their fair share of government cuts.
He explains:
“It is clear that these figures are much worse than forecast. The council is facing the biggest reduction of any council in Scotland. The reduction of 4.94% is almost double that of the average.
There are still issues we are seeking clarification on as we do not understand why we are being penalised with such a big reduction in funding.”
The council had been accused of planning for too-bleak a future through its own budget processes. Councillor Walsh believes this prudent approach is now justified.
“It is disappointing that Ministers and MSPs have publicly stated that the council's settlement was much better than had been expected and then be party to a cut in our funding that is double that of the average.”
Councillor Walsh is also concerned that the cuts will impact on important front line council services.
“That the cuts stem from changes in SINA (Special Islands Needs Allowances) and the ‘supporting people’ allocation, suggest a complete disregard for our most vulnerable communities and vulnerable citizens by the Scottish Government.”
The council is now discussing the implications of the settlement with COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) and with the Scottish Government, to understand if the variation from the average is correct and if not, to have it put right.
If they are correct the implications of this one-year budget will impact Argyll and Bute for many years.
Councillor Walsh continued:
“It is disappointing the settlement is for one year only as that makes delivering a sustainable medium term budget that protects services difficult to achieve. However that we now start from a funding base over £5m lower than expected will make this a near impossible task. It’s not just £5m less for next year it means we start 2012-13 and 2013-14 from a base that is £5m lower.”
When combined with cost and demand pressures and rising inflation the actual budget reduction faced by the council is between £15 million and £16 million.
MG ALBA WELCOMES DECISION BY BBC TRUST TO ESTABLISH BBC ALBA ON FREEVIEW
The BBC/MG ALBA partnership which operates the BBC ALBA channel today welcomed the decision by the BBC Trust to establish the channel on Freeview.
Speaking on behalf of MG ALBA, Alasdair Morrison, chairman, said: “We are absolutely delighted by the decision and most importantly it will provide the opportunity for people across Scotland to have access to the channel that they have been unable to enjoy to date.
“Over the last two years BBC ALBA has done everything that was asked of it and we have created a raft of home-grown programmes appealing to both Gaelic and non-Gaelic speakers which has made a very positive contribution to Scottish broadcasting and the country’s creative industries. The viewers like what they see and viewing figures have remained steady around 220,000 per week which compares very favourably with other digital channels in Scotland.
“Until now, less than 50 per cent of households in Scotland had access to the channel. Now that barrier has been removed it means households across Scotland will be in a position to take advantage of the variety of programmes that viewers in Scotland have found attractive.
“We would like to bring absolute clarity to the issue of the effect on radio services in view of BBC ALBA being made available on Freeview. First and foremost Freeview is a television platform on airwaves set aside for digital television services. Radio stations were first carried on Freeview when demand for television programming on the service was much lower. That is no longer the case. Freeview is now the UK's main television platform. There are separate arrangements for digital radio and the development of that service is where the long term solution to radio lies.
“Secondly the BBC Executive estimates that the effect of removing some radio stations from Freeview will only affect in the region of 4,000 people who would have no radio-based access to the radio services and of which 2,500 can get access to digital radio via the internet.
“Thirdly the vast majority of the 51,000 who listen to radio on Freeview in fact are listening to FM/AM stations. These and all other stations will continue to be available on FM/AM and DAB radio frequencies where the overwhelming majority of people listen to radio. The radio stations are also available online and through Freesat and Sky TV and cable.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the political parties across Scotland for their overwhelming support for the channel throughout our Freeview campaign as well as the many organisations and individuals who have supported us. In addition thanks also go to the BBC Management for their encouragement, as well as Jeremy Peat Trustee for Scotland at the BBC Trust. We look forward to bringing our service to a wider audience throughout the country.”
Speaking on behalf of MG ALBA, Alasdair Morrison, chairman, said: “We are absolutely delighted by the decision and most importantly it will provide the opportunity for people across Scotland to have access to the channel that they have been unable to enjoy to date.
“Over the last two years BBC ALBA has done everything that was asked of it and we have created a raft of home-grown programmes appealing to both Gaelic and non-Gaelic speakers which has made a very positive contribution to Scottish broadcasting and the country’s creative industries. The viewers like what they see and viewing figures have remained steady around 220,000 per week which compares very favourably with other digital channels in Scotland.
“Until now, less than 50 per cent of households in Scotland had access to the channel. Now that barrier has been removed it means households across Scotland will be in a position to take advantage of the variety of programmes that viewers in Scotland have found attractive.
“We would like to bring absolute clarity to the issue of the effect on radio services in view of BBC ALBA being made available on Freeview. First and foremost Freeview is a television platform on airwaves set aside for digital television services. Radio stations were first carried on Freeview when demand for television programming on the service was much lower. That is no longer the case. Freeview is now the UK's main television platform. There are separate arrangements for digital radio and the development of that service is where the long term solution to radio lies.
“Secondly the BBC Executive estimates that the effect of removing some radio stations from Freeview will only affect in the region of 4,000 people who would have no radio-based access to the radio services and of which 2,500 can get access to digital radio via the internet.
“Thirdly the vast majority of the 51,000 who listen to radio on Freeview in fact are listening to FM/AM stations. These and all other stations will continue to be available on FM/AM and DAB radio frequencies where the overwhelming majority of people listen to radio. The radio stations are also available online and through Freesat and Sky TV and cable.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the political parties across Scotland for their overwhelming support for the channel throughout our Freeview campaign as well as the many organisations and individuals who have supported us. In addition thanks also go to the BBC Management for their encouragement, as well as Jeremy Peat Trustee for Scotland at the BBC Trust. We look forward to bringing our service to a wider audience throughout the country.”
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