Responding to the ITC's report on Grampian Television, the Vice-Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr. Roddy Murray, commented:

"The Comhairle is keen to see more programmes made locally and it has been obvious for some time that, despite the best efforts of the local staff, Grampian has been failing to meet the requirements of what should be their primary target audiences. Moving the evening Gaelic news programme to a totally unsuitable time and cutting the amount of time given to the news programme is just one example of how the wishes of local people, particularly in the area of Gaelic broadcasting, have been overlooked.

What is particularly disturbing are the rumours of staff unhappiness to the extent that people are said to be leaving their jobs with Grampian because of the uncertainty of what the future holds. I would now call on Grampian to give a commitment to programme production in their Stornoway studios and to maximise efforts to secure the futures of those working for the company.

All this is a far cry from the glowing promises made by Grampian at the time of opening the Studios in Seaforth Road in Stornoway. Instead of growth and improvement we have seen a steady erosion of the local base, with very poor staff morale, adding up to a failure by Grampian to live up to their franchise or their promises. Sadly, our worst fears are now confirmed by the current report".

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott, Communications Officer. Tel: 01851 709389

01851 706412 (Home)