Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 31 May 2000 For Use: Immediately

A range of vital economic issues for the Western Isles were discussed at a meeting today between the Convener, Vice Convener and Chairman of Development Services of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and the Chairman and Chief Executive of Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Discussions covered a wide range of economic development issues in the Western Isles, in which the Comhairle representatives pursued, in particular, the question of locating government and agency dispersed posts in the Western Isles, the promotion of capital projects to stimulate activity in the building industry, the establishment of a new air terminal at Stornoway Airport, and the opportunity for young people to find employment within the islands.

The representatives from HIE were extremely supportive and very positive in response to the issues raised and in particular outlined the substantial investment of HIE time and funding to address the range of issues identified. The Convener of the Comhairle, Alex Macdonald said

"The Comhairle welcomes the positive support offered by HIE and the constructive attitude towards promoting the future economic well-being of the Western Isles."

The Chairman of HIE, Dr Jim Hunter said:

"The close collaboration between the Comhairle and HIE, with the alignment of our common interests in economic development and the promotion of employment is a model of inter-agency working. With the good working relationship between the Comhairle and Western Isles Enterprise, supported by HIE, we have established a flexible mechanism for concentrating efforts on development. We have a very positive story to tell about development in the Western Isles and a bright future lies ahead."

The Comhairle and HIE expect that their recent joint approaches to the local MP and MSP will ensure political support to bring many prospects to a satisfactory conclusion.

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer