WESTERN ISLES LOCAL ECONOMIC FORUM MEETING

Minutes of Meeting held in WIE in Thursday 19 May 2005

Present: 

M Maclennan, WIE (Chair)
D Macaulay, WIE
B Howat, CnES
R Murray, CoC
R Stewart, Job Centre Plus
D Green, LCC
A Macmillan, VS

Apologies: 
A Campbell CNES
A Anderson, WIAA
C Engebretsen, FSB

Also Present     D McKim, C I Maciver, L MacPherso

1. Welcome 

Chairman opened the meeting and welcomed those present. In particular he welcomed R Murray to his first LEF meeting following his appointment to the Chair of the Chamber of Commerce.

Chairman also introduced K Murray of Lewis Windpower Ltd, and invited a presentation as requested by members at the previous LEF meeting. K Murray outlined the scope of the proposed windfarm project, the geographic spread anticipated, estimated revenues for estates and community benefit groups, and the assumptions made in arriving at these revenues. Discussion focussed on issues raised previously including potential pressure on the labour market, and associated recruitment difficulties. The dynamic nature of the labour market was noted including the inevitability of some displacement, and the impact of recent lay-offs in the processing and aquaculture sectors. Different community investment routes were discussed, as was the issue of carbon release, and the LWP approach to calculating recovery on the basis of categorisation of peat areas. Discussion also referred to potential for run-off and the control and management measures contained within the Environmental Statement.

2. Minute of meeting held on 17th February 2005

These were approved subject to one correction, the inclusion of Archie Campbell CNES as present at the meeting. Approval of the minutes was proposed by D M Macaulay and seconded by B Howat. 

3. Matters Arising

Branding – D Macaulay confirmed funding was now confirmed for the next stage in the process, and a further report to partners was anticipated in July.

Creating Communities of the Future – C I Maciver confirmed the local launch is scheduled for 3 June 2005. Consideration is being given to further promotion in both Edinburgh and London.

Tourism Network Changes – A MacMillan updated members on the current structure of Visitscotland operations in the area, the membership organisation now established, and the legally binding agreement with CNES in respect of funding provided. The composition of the Strategy Group has now been agreed and a presentation will be made to the LEF as progress is made

LEF Self Assessment – response attached for information

Rural Housing Issues – exchange of letters with SEERAD attached for information

HIE Strategy Review – response attached for information

Forum Membership – CNES to address

Potential Strike Action – LEF letter attached for information. Chair confirmed a response had been received recently, and this will be circulated to members shortly.

Aquaculture – the recent announcement of job losses in the aquaculture sector was highlighted, and concern was expressed regarding long term prospects for the sector, related processing and service level activity. It was agreed to request a presentation from the WIAA on this issue. 

Road Fuel /Transport costs – CNES to circulate a copy of the OFT report to members

Car Parking – CNES updated members on traffic management changes introduced at both CNES offices and at Ionad Spors Leodhais.

4. Scottish Executive – Improving Regulation Annual Report 2003/04

This report was noted.

5. Futureskills Scotland – LEF Area Profile

D McKim highlighted variances between the Futureskills Scotland figures and the findings within the Regional Accounts exercise now nearing completion. These included employment in the Agriculture sector, and the size of the workforce. It was agreed this should be pursued to ensure clarification and consistency.

Members also agreed that a presentation on the Regional Accounts Study to the next LEF meeting would be helpful.

6.  Action Plan – Progress Report 

Members noted the update on the Action Plan, and the various points to be addressed in June 2005. Voluntary Action Lewis is to assist with the proposed web-site development, and this will be progressed in the coming months.
 
7. AOCB 

Chair suggested that Iain Morrison would contact with R Murray, CoC, and assist with familiarisation of LEF remit, purpose and procedures.

Next meeting to be held on 25 August 2005 at WIE office.