Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 15 November 2000 For Use: Immediately

SINA Meeting 'Encouraging'

Following a meeting today with the Peter Peacock, Depute Minister For Finance and Local Government, to discuss SINA, the Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr. Alex MacDonald, said:

"It was a very good, constructive meeting and the Minister listened carefully to our case. We impressed upon the Minister the fact that any reduction in SINA would have a disproportionate effect on the Western Isles and would leave a serious gap in Comhairle funds at a critical time for the economy of the islands.

The new Minister's knowledge of the particular issues and problems facing island authorities was extremely encouraging in the context of SINA. A wide range of other financial and local government matters were also discussed".

Ends

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