Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 27 June 2000 For Use: Immediately

Western Isles organisations should join in a campaign to support Lews Castle College because of the importance of the institution to the islands, the Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has said.

The Comhairle is offering support following last week's announcement about the College's finances and an initial meeting has been set up between the leaders of the Comhairle and the Principal of Lews Castle College, Mr. David Green.

Mr. Alex MacDonald said today:

"Lews Castle College is an important institution in the Western Isles. Not only is it a centre of learning based within the islands, it is also a major employer and we should all be working to ensure it has a healthy future. The Comhairle will work towards that end and we will provide support where we can."

The Vice-Convener, Mr. Roddy Murray, agreed, commenting:

"Many colleges throughout Scotland are in a similar position to that of Lews Castle College and the Scottish Executive has to look at the whole area of how Colleges of Further Education are funded. We will work with the College to secure their future and the September summit which the College has announced is an excellent way of initiating the serious debate on the future of further education and funding in remote communities. We have however asked for an early meeting with the College so that we can hold discussions on how to take the matter forward in the meantime."

The Chairman of Education, Mr. Norman L. Macdonald, said,

"The College offers many excellent courses and it is reassuring that despite the problems the College is facing, commitments are being given that courses will not be withdrawn where there are continuing students. The opportunities that are provided to the community by the College in education and training are vital and we must now get the issue of the funding of futher education onto the national agenda. It is important for the future of our young people in particular that sustainable education and training is provided locally."

An initial meeting between the leaders of the Comhairle and representatives of the College will be held today, Monday 27 June.

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer