DEASBAD AN TAGHAIDH : THE ELECTION DEBATE
Wednesday 27th April at 9pm on BBC ALBA
BBC ALBA will host its election debate ‘Deasbad an Taghaidh’ at BBC Scotland’s headquarters at Pacific Quay, Glasgow, which will see representatives of the four main political parties face the audience on issues that matter to them in the election campaign.
An audience from the Gaelic-speaking Scottish electorate will put their questions to the panel, under the expert chairmanship of BBC Gaelic News presenter, Iain Maclean.
The panel of party representatives will include:
· Bill Innes - Conservative – (former air pilot and Scottish Conservatives supporter)
· Donald Crichton - Labour (local Officer for Scottish Health Council and current Labour candidate for the Western Isles)
· Peter Morrison - Liberal Democrat (former businessman and former Western Isles Enterprise Board Member and current Lib Dem candidate for the Western Isles)
· Alasdair Allan - SNP (former MSP and current SNP candidate for the Western Isles)
The one hour programme, in Gaelic with English language subtitles, will be broadcast on Wednesday 27th April at 9pm.
AN TAGHADH 2011 : SCOTTISH ELECTION 2011
Friday 6th May at 5.30pm on BBC ALBA
BBC ALBA will also present a special three-hour election results programme live from BBC’s Pacific Quay building, hosted by Iain Maclean and Angela Maclean
Iain MacLean and Angela MacLean are journalist broadcasters working on the daily BBC ALBA news programme, ‘An Là’ as well as BBC Radio nan Gaidheal’s flagship news programme, ‘Aithris Na Maidne’. Both have worked for BBC Gaelic News Service for over ten years and have expertise in both local and national politics.
‘An Taghadh 2011’ will take a look at the highlights and outcome of the election and provide analysis of what it all means for communities around Scotland, with special emphasis on the results that matter to Gaelic communities.
Expert analysis will be provided by Niall O’ Gallagher a political broadcast journalist with BBC Gaelic news, Michael Macneil a political broadcast journalist with BBC Gaelic news and Anna Macleod a freelance journalist based in London. There will also be reaction from the parties themselves and from some of those who voted in this year’s election.
In addition, the programme will look at the UK Political situation including the referendum on AV voting, the English Council Elections as well as the Welsh and Northern Ireland Assembly results.
‘An Taghadh 2011’ will be broadcast in Gaelic with English language subtitles from 5.30pm - 8.30pm on Friday, 6th May.
Friday 22 April 2011
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Russell calls Council meeting "Utterly Shambolic"
SNP CANDIDATE FOR ARGYLL AND BUTE, Michael Russell , has offered his support to the communities whose schools are now formally in a closure process following the decisions of Argyll & Bute Council yesterday.
However he has also condemned the Council meeting - which he attended - as “utterly shambolic” and has called on the council to examine its procedures as a matter of urgency.
Mr Russell said:
“There were many disappointed parents and children at Kilmory yesterday and many more in communities throughout rural Argyll when the news of the decisions was announced late last night. But a formal consultation - although clearly seen merely as a pre-amble to closure by the Lib Dem Education Convener given her repeated negative comments about each school yesterday - is governed by law and communities have the right to a fair hearing. I will be happy to support each and every one of them , if they wish such help, in preparing their case and putting forward their views. There is still hope if the campaign is strong and imaginative enough.
The decisions are bad enough but I was genuinely shocked by the utterly shambolic nature of the meeting. The twelve hours it took was ludicrous. At times proceedings were reminiscent of the North Korean Politburo as inordinately lengthy statements were delivered in dull monotones by stern faced officials whilst councillors sat looking on. The quality of the educational information provided was poor and at times completely wrong and in one memorable exchange about teaching numbers at Lochgiphead, totally baffling. The comparative research quoted in justification of the proposals was patchy and mostly irrelevant to the actual issues in Argyll. To make parallels about educational delivery between inner city Chicago and the east side of the Kintyre peninsula is plainly ridiculous .
If this meeting was a true reflection of the standard of governance and decision making in this area then the present Argyll & Bute administration is in dereliction of the basic standards of openness and accountability. In addition it is obvious now that the quality of the support it gives to councillors and the public is well below what is acceptable. There must be an urgent review of these failings.
It was very frustrating to see schools with good cases for retention having the facts they had brought forward totally ignored. The Scottish Rural Schools Network have now proved beyond doubt that the only savings in these proposals will come from staff cuts, and as such cuts are governed by national agreements Argyll & Bute may find itself in default if it continues down this path., something that might lead to financial penalties.
To close rural schools only to save money is illegal. But so chaotic is the current administration in Argyll & Bute that these closures are now certain to cost the council money - but still they are hell bent on doing it. However it is not too late for them to come to their senses, though the sight I saw yesterday of Lib Dem Cllr Morton being egged on by Tory Councillor Mulvaney at each and every turn perhaps gave the true clue to what is taking place - an ideological assault on rural schools from a Tory / Lib Dem coalition every bit as damaging to Argyll and Bute as the one ruling from London.
However he has also condemned the Council meeting - which he attended - as “utterly shambolic” and has called on the council to examine its procedures as a matter of urgency.
Mr Russell said:
“There were many disappointed parents and children at Kilmory yesterday and many more in communities throughout rural Argyll when the news of the decisions was announced late last night. But a formal consultation - although clearly seen merely as a pre-amble to closure by the Lib Dem Education Convener given her repeated negative comments about each school yesterday - is governed by law and communities have the right to a fair hearing. I will be happy to support each and every one of them , if they wish such help, in preparing their case and putting forward their views. There is still hope if the campaign is strong and imaginative enough.
The decisions are bad enough but I was genuinely shocked by the utterly shambolic nature of the meeting. The twelve hours it took was ludicrous. At times proceedings were reminiscent of the North Korean Politburo as inordinately lengthy statements were delivered in dull monotones by stern faced officials whilst councillors sat looking on. The quality of the educational information provided was poor and at times completely wrong and in one memorable exchange about teaching numbers at Lochgiphead, totally baffling. The comparative research quoted in justification of the proposals was patchy and mostly irrelevant to the actual issues in Argyll. To make parallels about educational delivery between inner city Chicago and the east side of the Kintyre peninsula is plainly ridiculous .
If this meeting was a true reflection of the standard of governance and decision making in this area then the present Argyll & Bute administration is in dereliction of the basic standards of openness and accountability. In addition it is obvious now that the quality of the support it gives to councillors and the public is well below what is acceptable. There must be an urgent review of these failings.
It was very frustrating to see schools with good cases for retention having the facts they had brought forward totally ignored. The Scottish Rural Schools Network have now proved beyond doubt that the only savings in these proposals will come from staff cuts, and as such cuts are governed by national agreements Argyll & Bute may find itself in default if it continues down this path., something that might lead to financial penalties.
To close rural schools only to save money is illegal. But so chaotic is the current administration in Argyll & Bute that these closures are now certain to cost the council money - but still they are hell bent on doing it. However it is not too late for them to come to their senses, though the sight I saw yesterday of Lib Dem Cllr Morton being egged on by Tory Councillor Mulvaney at each and every turn perhaps gave the true clue to what is taking place - an ideological assault on rural schools from a Tory / Lib Dem coalition every bit as damaging to Argyll and Bute as the one ruling from London.
Postal voters urged to make their vote count
As 7500 postal voting packs start dropping through letter boxes across Argyll and Bute postal voters are being reminded to read the instructions carefully when casting their vote otherwise their vote might not be counted.
When voting by post, voters need to fill in a form accompanying their ballot paper, giving their signature and date of birth. As a security measure, these are matched against the signature and date of birth the voter provided when they applied to vote by post.
Sally Loudon, Returning Officer for Argyll and Bute says, “Postal voting is growing in popularity as a convenient way to have your say. But at every election, some postal votes are invalid, because the voter either forgot to sign the postal voting statement or wrote down the date they filled it in, rather than their date of birth.
“We’ve provided a guide to completing your postal ballot in your pack, so please do take the time to read it and provide the right information so that we can count your vote. We need to receive your postal votes before polls close at 10pm on 5 May.”
The Electoral Commission, the independent elections and referendum watchdog, has sent every household in Scotland an information booklet on the election and the referendum.
If you haven’t got your pack by 26 April you should contact the election office on 01546 603264 or download it at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk
When voting by post, voters need to fill in a form accompanying their ballot paper, giving their signature and date of birth. As a security measure, these are matched against the signature and date of birth the voter provided when they applied to vote by post.
Sally Loudon, Returning Officer for Argyll and Bute says, “Postal voting is growing in popularity as a convenient way to have your say. But at every election, some postal votes are invalid, because the voter either forgot to sign the postal voting statement or wrote down the date they filled it in, rather than their date of birth.
“We’ve provided a guide to completing your postal ballot in your pack, so please do take the time to read it and provide the right information so that we can count your vote. We need to receive your postal votes before polls close at 10pm on 5 May.”
The Electoral Commission, the independent elections and referendum watchdog, has sent every household in Scotland an information booklet on the election and the referendum.
If you haven’t got your pack by 26 April you should contact the election office on 01546 603264 or download it at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk
Primary school amalgamation proposals go to formal consultation
Argyll and Bute councillors have voted to consult formally on eleven primary school amalgamation proposals.
The council has 80 primary schools, with the capacity for around 11,500 pupils. Currently there are approximately 5,500 vacant places and predictions show the number of vacancies is expected to increase.
School rolls have reduced to unsustainable levels in a number of areas and the council’s proposals focus on the educational benefit for pupils at those schools.
At the same time some school buildings need huge investment to bring them up to an appropriate standard.
The cost of educating pupils in Argyll and Bute ranges from £3,000 per pupil per year to almost £30,000 per pupil per year.
The following proposals are now subject to a period of statutory consultation:
· St Kieran’s Primary School to Castlehill Primary School
· Ardchonnel Primary School to Dalmally / Kilmartin Primary Schools
· Toward Primary School to Inellan Primary School
· Skipness Primary School to Tarbert Academy
· Clachan Primary School to Tarbert Academy
· Rhunahaorine Primary School to Glenbarr Primary School
· Minard Primary School to Furnace Primary School
· North Bute Primary School to Rothesay Joint Campus
· Luss Primary School to Hermitage Primary School
· Achaleven Primary School to Dunbeg Primary School
· Ardchatten Primary School to Lochnell Primary School
The council agreed not to take forward to formal consultation the proposals to merge Ashfield Primary School with either Tayvallich Primary School or Lochgilphead Joint Campus.
Councillors rejected a proposal to amalgamate Minard Primary School with Lochgilphead Joint Campus, preferring the alternative option to amalgamate Minard Primary School with Furnace Primary School.
And councillors also rejected a proposal to amalgamate Achaleven Primary School with Lochnell Primary School, preferring the alternative option to amalgamate Achaleven Primary School with Dunbeg Primary School.
Councillor Ellen Morton, spokesperson for education and lifelong learning said:
“Argyll and Bute Council is committed to providing a quality education for all of its school children. If we are going to provide an equitable and sustainable education for all then we have to make sure our resources are used to the best effect.
“Running schools which are half full or less and where predictions show the roll is likely to decrease is not a sustainable position. These are not easy decisions to make and I understand that those communities which are directly affected are not in favour of the proposals but we have to take a long term view and consider education in the whole of Argyll and Bute.
“If agreed, these proposals will have a direct impact on 137 pupils, in the schools that may close. We have around 5800 primary school children and we must consider how to deliver the best education for all of them.
“We have already held pre-consultation meetings with communities and have included their comments in our proposals. Everyone now has a further opportunity to have their say as part of the formal consultation process before further decisions are made by council in October.”
The council has 80 primary schools, with the capacity for around 11,500 pupils. Currently there are approximately 5,500 vacant places and predictions show the number of vacancies is expected to increase.
School rolls have reduced to unsustainable levels in a number of areas and the council’s proposals focus on the educational benefit for pupils at those schools.
At the same time some school buildings need huge investment to bring them up to an appropriate standard.
The cost of educating pupils in Argyll and Bute ranges from £3,000 per pupil per year to almost £30,000 per pupil per year.
The following proposals are now subject to a period of statutory consultation:
· St Kieran’s Primary School to Castlehill Primary School
· Ardchonnel Primary School to Dalmally / Kilmartin Primary Schools
· Toward Primary School to Inellan Primary School
· Skipness Primary School to Tarbert Academy
· Clachan Primary School to Tarbert Academy
· Rhunahaorine Primary School to Glenbarr Primary School
· Minard Primary School to Furnace Primary School
· North Bute Primary School to Rothesay Joint Campus
· Luss Primary School to Hermitage Primary School
· Achaleven Primary School to Dunbeg Primary School
· Ardchatten Primary School to Lochnell Primary School
The council agreed not to take forward to formal consultation the proposals to merge Ashfield Primary School with either Tayvallich Primary School or Lochgilphead Joint Campus.
Councillors rejected a proposal to amalgamate Minard Primary School with Lochgilphead Joint Campus, preferring the alternative option to amalgamate Minard Primary School with Furnace Primary School.
And councillors also rejected a proposal to amalgamate Achaleven Primary School with Lochnell Primary School, preferring the alternative option to amalgamate Achaleven Primary School with Dunbeg Primary School.
Councillor Ellen Morton, spokesperson for education and lifelong learning said:
“Argyll and Bute Council is committed to providing a quality education for all of its school children. If we are going to provide an equitable and sustainable education for all then we have to make sure our resources are used to the best effect.
“Running schools which are half full or less and where predictions show the roll is likely to decrease is not a sustainable position. These are not easy decisions to make and I understand that those communities which are directly affected are not in favour of the proposals but we have to take a long term view and consider education in the whole of Argyll and Bute.
“If agreed, these proposals will have a direct impact on 137 pupils, in the schools that may close. We have around 5800 primary school children and we must consider how to deliver the best education for all of them.
“We have already held pre-consultation meetings with communities and have included their comments in our proposals. Everyone now has a further opportunity to have their say as part of the formal consultation process before further decisions are made by council in October.”
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Scottish rubbish habits are going down the pan as more of us use the toilet as a watery dustbin
Marine Conservation Society condemns rise in bathroom rubbish found on Scottish beaches and urges the public to ‘bag it and bin it – don’t flush it’
People in Scotland are putting far more down their toilets than they should be and the result is beaches awash with items like cotton buds, condoms, sanitary towels and tampon applicators, according to the latest findings from the Marine Conservation Society’s (MCS) Beachwatch Big Weekend 2010 report.
Despite litter levels on Scottish beaches falling in 2009 from an all time high in 2008, last year average litter levels in Scotland shot up with over 2,000 items of litter for every kilometre of Scottish beaches surveyed in the MCS annual clean up. The data collected also revealed a shocking 32% rise in the amount of sewage-related debris in Scotland – that’s the stuff we shouldn’t put down our toilets but in the bathroom bin instead.
Scotland had the highest average litter levels in the UK of six out of the seven sewage-related debris items that MCS records: condoms, cotton bud sticks, nappies, tampons/tampon applicators, toilet fresheners, and sanitary towels/pantyliners/backing strips.
MCS Scottish Projects Officer, Anne Saunders, said: ‘We are dismayed that the overall amount of litter within Scotland has risen by 24%. However, what is even more worrying is that when we look at the individual sources of litter, sewage-related debris has risen by a massive 32%. We can easily stop this disgusting source of litter from reaching Scottish beaches by not flushing items such as cotton bud sticks and sanitary waste down the toilet.’
MCS Beachwatch Officer, Lauren Davis, says the figures reveal a shocking picture of what people do in the privacy of their own bathroom: “Increasingly, people seem to be putting things like cotton buds, condoms, tampons, tampon applicators and sanitary towels down the loo and flushing away with an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ perception. Sewerage networks are not specifically designed to remove these sort of items and unfortunately more and more are ending up in our rivers and then on our beaches.”
In Scotland the MCS Beachwatch Big Weekend 2010 results were collected by almost 800 volunteers who cleaned 57 beaches, covering over 22 kilometres on the 18th and 19th September 2010. 53,162 items of litter were collected.
Anne Saunders says the rise in this sewage-related debris highlights a gap in the knowledge of the Scottish public: “When people drop a cotton bud down the loo after cleaning their ears, applying make up or drying baby’s creases, they have no idea that the same cotton bud could end up on their favourite beach, washed up just where they want to put their towel down. There is a serious misconception that once it’s flushed away, it’s gone. But it just isn’t. We want people to follow our simple message – bag it, bin it – but don’t flush it. Stop using your toilet as a wet bin.”
The MCS message strikes a chord with the water industry too. Rob Mustard, General Manager, Waste Water Operations, Scottish Water, said: ““When sewers and pumping stations get blocked, they overflow and sewage escapes into rivers. This can have an impact on the wildlife and the environment.
“In Scotland it is estimated that a shocking 340 million items of sanitary waste are flushed every year and 55 per cent of all sewer blockages are caused by people disposing of cooking fat down their sink.
“Every year around £6 million of customer’s money is spent by Scottish Water trying to fix these blockages and repair the damage. We dealt with over 51,000 choked drains last year and we need the help of the public to bring this number down.”
Scotland is the only part of the UK so far to commit to a marine litter strategy, but this could all change if there is a new Scottish Government after the election on 5 May. “If you are concerned about litter on your favourite beach then highlight your concerns with the candidates standing in May’s elections, so we can make sure our beautiful beaches receive the protection they richly deserve. Ask them to commit to a marine litter strategy if they are elected,” says Anne Saunders.
People in Scotland are putting far more down their toilets than they should be and the result is beaches awash with items like cotton buds, condoms, sanitary towels and tampon applicators, according to the latest findings from the Marine Conservation Society’s (MCS) Beachwatch Big Weekend 2010 report.
Despite litter levels on Scottish beaches falling in 2009 from an all time high in 2008, last year average litter levels in Scotland shot up with over 2,000 items of litter for every kilometre of Scottish beaches surveyed in the MCS annual clean up. The data collected also revealed a shocking 32% rise in the amount of sewage-related debris in Scotland – that’s the stuff we shouldn’t put down our toilets but in the bathroom bin instead.
Scotland had the highest average litter levels in the UK of six out of the seven sewage-related debris items that MCS records: condoms, cotton bud sticks, nappies, tampons/tampon applicators, toilet fresheners, and sanitary towels/pantyliners/backing strips.
MCS Scottish Projects Officer, Anne Saunders, said: ‘We are dismayed that the overall amount of litter within Scotland has risen by 24%. However, what is even more worrying is that when we look at the individual sources of litter, sewage-related debris has risen by a massive 32%. We can easily stop this disgusting source of litter from reaching Scottish beaches by not flushing items such as cotton bud sticks and sanitary waste down the toilet.’
MCS Beachwatch Officer, Lauren Davis, says the figures reveal a shocking picture of what people do in the privacy of their own bathroom: “Increasingly, people seem to be putting things like cotton buds, condoms, tampons, tampon applicators and sanitary towels down the loo and flushing away with an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ perception. Sewerage networks are not specifically designed to remove these sort of items and unfortunately more and more are ending up in our rivers and then on our beaches.”
In Scotland the MCS Beachwatch Big Weekend 2010 results were collected by almost 800 volunteers who cleaned 57 beaches, covering over 22 kilometres on the 18th and 19th September 2010. 53,162 items of litter were collected.
Anne Saunders says the rise in this sewage-related debris highlights a gap in the knowledge of the Scottish public: “When people drop a cotton bud down the loo after cleaning their ears, applying make up or drying baby’s creases, they have no idea that the same cotton bud could end up on their favourite beach, washed up just where they want to put their towel down. There is a serious misconception that once it’s flushed away, it’s gone. But it just isn’t. We want people to follow our simple message – bag it, bin it – but don’t flush it. Stop using your toilet as a wet bin.”
The MCS message strikes a chord with the water industry too. Rob Mustard, General Manager, Waste Water Operations, Scottish Water, said: ““When sewers and pumping stations get blocked, they overflow and sewage escapes into rivers. This can have an impact on the wildlife and the environment.
“In Scotland it is estimated that a shocking 340 million items of sanitary waste are flushed every year and 55 per cent of all sewer blockages are caused by people disposing of cooking fat down their sink.
“Every year around £6 million of customer’s money is spent by Scottish Water trying to fix these blockages and repair the damage. We dealt with over 51,000 choked drains last year and we need the help of the public to bring this number down.”
Scotland is the only part of the UK so far to commit to a marine litter strategy, but this could all change if there is a new Scottish Government after the election on 5 May. “If you are concerned about litter on your favourite beach then highlight your concerns with the candidates standing in May’s elections, so we can make sure our beautiful beaches receive the protection they richly deserve. Ask them to commit to a marine litter strategy if they are elected,” says Anne Saunders.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Saturday 30 April – Friday 6 May 2011
Title: SPL - Kilmarnock v Hearts
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Kilmarnock host Hearts at Rugby Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 30th April 2011
Time: 17:30
Title: Talamh Trocair/Revealing Scotland's Past
Exploring the archaeology of Scotland - this week's theme is "finding" archaeology and features one of the most important sites in the country where archaeologists are trying to find the palace of Scotland's first king.
Transmitted: Tuesday 3rd May 2011
Time: 20:30
Title: Soillse – Becoming a Man in Africa
"Becoming a Man in Africa" follows the epic ordeals of young men who live in different countries and although they'll never meet each others, they share a common, singular goal: to make the difficult passage into manhood.
To achieve this dual status in Central Africa, Banda must climb giant trees to gather honey, the elixir of life, whereas Kolé in Ethiopia must embark on a long journey, which will take him to the bull jumping ceremony…
Two initiation quests, each for the same goal: becoming a man.
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th May 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Martin Martin
Martin Martin was born in Skye and in 1703, following an extensive journey in the Western Isles, published the first written account of the Isles, the place and its people. This drama-documentary tells the story of the writer and examines his classic account which is thought to have influenced later travellers such as Boswell and Johnson.
Transmitted: Thursday 5th May 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: An Taghadh 2011/Scottish Election 2011
As the final votes are counted, Angela MacLean and Iain MacLean review the big election stories of the day and analyse the outcome.
Transmitted: Friday 6th May 2011
Time: 17:30
The latest full-match coverage from the SPL as Kilmarnock host Hearts at Rugby Park.
Transmitted: Saturday 30th April 2011
Time: 17:30
Title: Talamh Trocair/Revealing Scotland's Past
Exploring the archaeology of Scotland - this week's theme is "finding" archaeology and features one of the most important sites in the country where archaeologists are trying to find the palace of Scotland's first king.
Transmitted: Tuesday 3rd May 2011
Time: 20:30
Title: Soillse – Becoming a Man in Africa
"Becoming a Man in Africa" follows the epic ordeals of young men who live in different countries and although they'll never meet each others, they share a common, singular goal: to make the difficult passage into manhood.
To achieve this dual status in Central Africa, Banda must climb giant trees to gather honey, the elixir of life, whereas Kolé in Ethiopia must embark on a long journey, which will take him to the bull jumping ceremony…
Two initiation quests, each for the same goal: becoming a man.
Transmitted: Wednesday 4th May 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Martin Martin
Martin Martin was born in Skye and in 1703, following an extensive journey in the Western Isles, published the first written account of the Isles, the place and its people. This drama-documentary tells the story of the writer and examines his classic account which is thought to have influenced later travellers such as Boswell and Johnson.
Transmitted: Thursday 5th May 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: An Taghadh 2011/Scottish Election 2011
As the final votes are counted, Angela MacLean and Iain MacLean review the big election stories of the day and analyse the outcome.
Transmitted: Friday 6th May 2011
Time: 17:30
Monday 18 April 2011
Dog Owners Asked To Take Responsibility for Their Pets
Argyll and Bute Council and the National Farmers Union for Scotland (NFUS) are asking everyone, especially dog owners, to take responsibility for their actions when enjoying the countryside. This is important for safety, especially in areas where there are farm animals.
Lambing is now well under way and responsible dog owners will know they must not allow their dog to chase sheep or lambs. Most ewes will be heavily pregnant and may abort if chased. You should always avoid entering a field of sheep and lambs with dogs since this can cause lambs to become separated from their mothers. Instead go through a neighbouring field or across adjacent land.
During the spring some cattle are turned out after being housed over the winter and may be especially curious of anyone strange entering a field or even passing by. Many beef herds will also be calving right now which means that you need to be careful when entering a field with cattle. Cows will try to defend their calves so you should never take a dog into a field if there are calves present.
If you do enter a field where there are animals always keep as far from the animals as you can. If you unexpectedly find yourself being confronted by a cow with a calf let your dog off the lead, it will out run a cow allowing you to escape by the shortest route. People have been killed by cows where they have attempted to protect a dog.
In the last year research has linked dog fouling with abortions in livestock which can cost farmers a lot of money. As a responsible dog owner you should always pick up and remove any dog’s dirt and place it in a bin just as you would in a public park.
Finally remember that in many areas including woodlands and moorlands from now until August there will be ground nesting birds and while your dog is out of sight it could be destroying their nests. Again keep your dog under close control to help protect our native birds.
Please enjoy the beautiful countryside of Argyll & Bute responsibly. If you wish to learn more about responsible access visit http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com
The Argyll & Bute Council Outdoor Access Team can be contacted for advice by land managers and anyone wanting to know more about their rights of responsible access to the countryside on 01546 604 119.
Lambing is now well under way and responsible dog owners will know they must not allow their dog to chase sheep or lambs. Most ewes will be heavily pregnant and may abort if chased. You should always avoid entering a field of sheep and lambs with dogs since this can cause lambs to become separated from their mothers. Instead go through a neighbouring field or across adjacent land.
During the spring some cattle are turned out after being housed over the winter and may be especially curious of anyone strange entering a field or even passing by. Many beef herds will also be calving right now which means that you need to be careful when entering a field with cattle. Cows will try to defend their calves so you should never take a dog into a field if there are calves present.
If you do enter a field where there are animals always keep as far from the animals as you can. If you unexpectedly find yourself being confronted by a cow with a calf let your dog off the lead, it will out run a cow allowing you to escape by the shortest route. People have been killed by cows where they have attempted to protect a dog.
In the last year research has linked dog fouling with abortions in livestock which can cost farmers a lot of money. As a responsible dog owner you should always pick up and remove any dog’s dirt and place it in a bin just as you would in a public park.
Finally remember that in many areas including woodlands and moorlands from now until August there will be ground nesting birds and while your dog is out of sight it could be destroying their nests. Again keep your dog under close control to help protect our native birds.
Please enjoy the beautiful countryside of Argyll & Bute responsibly. If you wish to learn more about responsible access visit http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com
The Argyll & Bute Council Outdoor Access Team can be contacted for advice by land managers and anyone wanting to know more about their rights of responsible access to the countryside on 01546 604 119.
BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS Saturday 23 April – Friday 29 April 2011
Title: Turas a' Bhradain/The Salmon's Journey
Another chance to see the final programme of series two of Turas a' Bhradain – a look at the stunning salmon rivers of Lewis and Harris.
Transmitted: Tuesday 26th April 2011
Time: 20:30
Title: Deasbad an Taghaidh/Election
A panel of political party representatives face an audience who are ready with questions on the party manifestos and the issues that matter to them in the election campaign.
Transmitted: Wednesday 27th April 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Club TV
Exclusive interviews, match action, and behind the scenes at Celtic and Rangers F.C.
Transmitted: Thursday 28th April 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Air an Urlar
A musical showcase from 2005 featuring talented youngsters and established performers. In this programme, singer Julie Fowlis takes centre stage.
Transmitted: Friday 29th April 2011
Time: 20:30
Another chance to see the final programme of series two of Turas a' Bhradain – a look at the stunning salmon rivers of Lewis and Harris.
Transmitted: Tuesday 26th April 2011
Time: 20:30
Title: Deasbad an Taghaidh/Election
A panel of political party representatives face an audience who are ready with questions on the party manifestos and the issues that matter to them in the election campaign.
Transmitted: Wednesday 27th April 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Club TV
Exclusive interviews, match action, and behind the scenes at Celtic and Rangers F.C.
Transmitted: Thursday 28th April 2011
Time: 21:00
Title: Air an Urlar
A musical showcase from 2005 featuring talented youngsters and established performers. In this programme, singer Julie Fowlis takes centre stage.
Transmitted: Friday 29th April 2011
Time: 20:30
FOOD PRODUCTION FIRST IN FUEL DUTY DEBATE says NFUS
Farmers and politicians will unite behind calls for Europe to put food production first in any debate this week around fuel duty rebates and increased taxation on the fuel that farming uses according to NFU Scotland.
The European Commission’s draft proposal on energy taxation changes, likely to be unveiled sometime this week, would look to remove existing tax reductions for the fuel used in sectors like agriculture with a suggestion farmers could also face a new energy consumption tax based on carbon dioxide. These measures are part of a leaked draft proposal to encourage agriculture to be more energy-efficient.
As well as industry opposition, the proposals are likely to come up against considerable political resistance from certain Member States. The Union believes as many as 17 Member States currently give tax allowances on agricultural fuel, including the UK. Any new legislation on taxation would require unanimity from all EU members and, at the moment, such agreement would appear to be unlikely on this issue.
NFU Scotland Policy Director Scott Walker said:
“With regards to fuel efficiency, those driving this green energy agenda need to bear in mind that there are very few savings left that a farmer can make. That is why any EU proposals to hike up the fuel tax on red diesel would make little sense. They would increase production costs on farm, at a time when food prices to consumers are already rising, and there would be little or no gain for the environment.
“With record oil prices, there isn’t a farmer in the country who is going to use more fuel than is absolutely necessary. Even with the current levels of tax rebate for non-road use, red diesel is still a huge input cost and at farm level, many farmers are doing what they can to be as fuel-efficient as possible. Modern machinery is increasingly geared towards low fuel usage and many farming techniques are now designed around reducing fuel consumption.
“Although yet to be officially released, this is a very contentious draft dossier and one which many European governments will feel strongly about. As most Member States offer red diesel discounts, we are likely to get strong support both politically and from our fellow European farmers for rebated fuel to remain available to those involved in primary production.
“Other EU Departments, such as DG Agri, must also recognise that these proposals would make food production in the EU less competitive and we will be encouraging them to reject them at this early stage.”
The European Commission’s draft proposal on energy taxation changes, likely to be unveiled sometime this week, would look to remove existing tax reductions for the fuel used in sectors like agriculture with a suggestion farmers could also face a new energy consumption tax based on carbon dioxide. These measures are part of a leaked draft proposal to encourage agriculture to be more energy-efficient.
As well as industry opposition, the proposals are likely to come up against considerable political resistance from certain Member States. The Union believes as many as 17 Member States currently give tax allowances on agricultural fuel, including the UK. Any new legislation on taxation would require unanimity from all EU members and, at the moment, such agreement would appear to be unlikely on this issue.
NFU Scotland Policy Director Scott Walker said:
“With regards to fuel efficiency, those driving this green energy agenda need to bear in mind that there are very few savings left that a farmer can make. That is why any EU proposals to hike up the fuel tax on red diesel would make little sense. They would increase production costs on farm, at a time when food prices to consumers are already rising, and there would be little or no gain for the environment.
“With record oil prices, there isn’t a farmer in the country who is going to use more fuel than is absolutely necessary. Even with the current levels of tax rebate for non-road use, red diesel is still a huge input cost and at farm level, many farmers are doing what they can to be as fuel-efficient as possible. Modern machinery is increasingly geared towards low fuel usage and many farming techniques are now designed around reducing fuel consumption.
“Although yet to be officially released, this is a very contentious draft dossier and one which many European governments will feel strongly about. As most Member States offer red diesel discounts, we are likely to get strong support both politically and from our fellow European farmers for rebated fuel to remain available to those involved in primary production.
“Other EU Departments, such as DG Agri, must also recognise that these proposals would make food production in the EU less competitive and we will be encouraging them to reject them at this early stage.”
NITROGEN USE FUNDAMENTAL TO FOOD SECURITY
Agriculture acts to maximise benefits of N but minimise waste
NFU Scotland has highlighted that nitrogen fertiliser is fundamental to food production and that responsible and efficient use on farm can benefit both the environment and the farmer’s bottom line.
The use of artificial fertiliser is key to both the quality and quantity of crops grown on Scottish farms. However, the amount of manufactured fertiliser bought has dropped to levels last seen in the 1970s as farmers look to better targeted and timely use of this expensive input. At the same time, scientific advances and best practice on farm is reducing the environmental impact.
Speaking from the Nitrogen and Global Change Conference in Edinburgh, following the launch of the European Nitrogen Assessment, NFU Scotland Vice President John Picken said:
“The use of synthetic nitrogen to grow crops remains fundamental to the farming industry’s ability to produce food. Both in the past, and in the future, nitrogen has a key place in feeding populations around the world and that is something that this report recognises.
“Farmers are also alive to the environmental impact that nitrogen use has and appreciate the need for timely and targeted applications of fertiliser. Optimising the uptake of nitrogen by plants is not only good for the environment but makes good business sense. Fertiliser is now a very expensive input and, with more efficient application, farmers have reduced the amount of nitrogen currently being used on farm to levels last seen in the 1970’s.
“New varieties of grass and cereals are also more efficient in their uptake and use of nitrogen and there is a role for science going forward to ensure we have the knowledge that can best exploit both plant genetic development and fertiliser requirement to its fullest potential.
“Farming methods have also changed to reflect the more responsible attitude towards fertiliser spreading on farm. The use of buffer strips, water course protection, properly calibrated fertiliser spreaders and so on are good examples the kind of best practice regularly found on all farms. Clovers and other legumes are also increasingly incorporated into grassland and cropping systems reducing the reliance on artificial nitrogen inputs.
“Of course, there are huge areas of Scotland’s hills and uplands that never see a fertiliser spreader yet provide the necessary grazing for many of the cattle and sheep that are extensively reared in Scotland. Those livestock are managing our habitats and carbon-rich soils and producing food in an inherently sustainable fashion.
“A broad brush policy approach to nitrogen might make some good headlines, but Scotland provides ample proof that issues around the environment and climate change are complex and often require greater insight than simplistic solutions. Nitrogen usage is only part of a wider picture that has seen overall emissions from agriculture in Scotland decrease by 23 percent in the past 30 years.
“There are still opportunities for more efficient nitrogen use on farm, particularly around the storage and spreading of the nitrogen found organically in slurry and farm yard manure. At the same time, scientific advances and research and development will enable farmers to produce more while impacting less. Scottish farming may have more to do in this area, but it is taking its responsibilities seriously.”
NFU Scotland has highlighted that nitrogen fertiliser is fundamental to food production and that responsible and efficient use on farm can benefit both the environment and the farmer’s bottom line.
The use of artificial fertiliser is key to both the quality and quantity of crops grown on Scottish farms. However, the amount of manufactured fertiliser bought has dropped to levels last seen in the 1970s as farmers look to better targeted and timely use of this expensive input. At the same time, scientific advances and best practice on farm is reducing the environmental impact.
Speaking from the Nitrogen and Global Change Conference in Edinburgh, following the launch of the European Nitrogen Assessment, NFU Scotland Vice President John Picken said:
“The use of synthetic nitrogen to grow crops remains fundamental to the farming industry’s ability to produce food. Both in the past, and in the future, nitrogen has a key place in feeding populations around the world and that is something that this report recognises.
“Farmers are also alive to the environmental impact that nitrogen use has and appreciate the need for timely and targeted applications of fertiliser. Optimising the uptake of nitrogen by plants is not only good for the environment but makes good business sense. Fertiliser is now a very expensive input and, with more efficient application, farmers have reduced the amount of nitrogen currently being used on farm to levels last seen in the 1970’s.
“New varieties of grass and cereals are also more efficient in their uptake and use of nitrogen and there is a role for science going forward to ensure we have the knowledge that can best exploit both plant genetic development and fertiliser requirement to its fullest potential.
“Farming methods have also changed to reflect the more responsible attitude towards fertiliser spreading on farm. The use of buffer strips, water course protection, properly calibrated fertiliser spreaders and so on are good examples the kind of best practice regularly found on all farms. Clovers and other legumes are also increasingly incorporated into grassland and cropping systems reducing the reliance on artificial nitrogen inputs.
“Of course, there are huge areas of Scotland’s hills and uplands that never see a fertiliser spreader yet provide the necessary grazing for many of the cattle and sheep that are extensively reared in Scotland. Those livestock are managing our habitats and carbon-rich soils and producing food in an inherently sustainable fashion.
“A broad brush policy approach to nitrogen might make some good headlines, but Scotland provides ample proof that issues around the environment and climate change are complex and often require greater insight than simplistic solutions. Nitrogen usage is only part of a wider picture that has seen overall emissions from agriculture in Scotland decrease by 23 percent in the past 30 years.
“There are still opportunities for more efficient nitrogen use on farm, particularly around the storage and spreading of the nitrogen found organically in slurry and farm yard manure. At the same time, scientific advances and research and development will enable farmers to produce more while impacting less. Scottish farming may have more to do in this area, but it is taking its responsibilities seriously.”
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