Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 11 May 2000 For Use: Immediately

Speaking in response to the publication of a report into the Delivery of Local Economic Development Services in Scotland by the Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Committee, the Vice-Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr. Roddy Murray, said:

"The recommended move towards more inclusiveness in Economic Development Services, taking in Chambers of Commerce, Tourist Boards and higher and further education representatives is to be welcomed. However, the report's suggested method of doing that is, in my view, inappropriate and likely to lead to more confusion and duplication of effort. The Comhairle's preferred option would be to see one development organisation embracing all the relevant bodies where potential developers are provided with a one-stop service from initial enquiry to resolution.

In addition more account needs to be taken of the specific needs of areas such as the Western Isles where depopulation and economic decline continue to prevail. We will be stressing these views to the Minister For Enterprise and Lifelong Learning, Mr. Henry Macleish, who will be announcing the conclusions of the Executive's Enterprise Networks Review before the summer recess."

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer