The events will give elected members, current officers, former officers and members of the public the opportunity to hear stories and share memories of 5 decades of the Comhairle. Both events are free to attend and all are welcome.

The event in Barra on Wednesday 11 June is being held in partnership with the Islands Book Trust. Former Comhairle Officer, Alasdair Maceachen will deliver a keynote presentation which will be followed by a Q&A session.

The event in Uist on Thursday 12 June will follow a similar format with local insight given into the impact the Comhairle has had on the area.

Food and refreshments will be available at both events.

The events in Uist and Barra follow a similar event held at Stornoway Town Hall where the commemorative publication, “50 Years of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar” was officially launched. The book will be available for sale at the Uist and Barra events.

Each of the book’s 17 chapters focuses on different aspects of the Comhairle’s work including “Education: On-Island Learning, “Gàidhlig: an Integral Asset”, “National and International Dimensions” and “Challenges and Controversies.”

The following is an extract from the foreword of the book written by Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Cllr Kenny Macleod, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar :

“As we approach the 50th anniversary of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar it is right that we mark some of its achievements and milestones, to reflect on the highs and the lows, the difference which the Comhairle has made to people’s lives in contrast with what went before, and to ponder future challenges. We hope you enjoy sharing in the journey.”