AL9408

ARTS AND LEISURE COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Tuesday 30 August 1994 at 9.00am

PRESENT

Mr Alasdair G Macrae (Vice-Chairman) (In the Chair)

Mrs Katie M Mackenzie

Mr Donald I Nicholson

Mr Roderick Macdonald

Mr Callum I Macmillan

Mr Angus M Graham

Mr Donald M Mackay

Mr Alasdair Nicholson

Mr Kenneth Mackay

Mr Donald Murray

Mrs Christina McNeill

Mr George Lonie

Mrs Mary Bremner

APOLOGIES

Mr Donald Macleod

Welcome:

Mrs Christina McNeill

The Chairman welcomed Mrs Christina McNeill, Member for the Paible Electoral Division, to her first Meeting of the Committee.

MINUTES

Arts and Leisure

AL01.02

34

The Minute of Meeting of 14 June 1994 was approved.

CONSTITUTION

Membership of Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee

AL01.02

35

With reference to item 5 of the Minute of Meeting of 17 May 1994, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report concerning proposals concerning a change in the Membership of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee. It was indicated that, since the Sub-Committee membership had been approved in May 1994, the view had been expressed that the Vice-Chairman of the Arts and Leisure Committee should be a Member of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee. It was stated that there was no provision in the Scheme of Administration for the Vice-Chairman of the Committee to be ex-officio a Member of the Sub-Committee. It was indicated that the Vice-Convener, who was a Member of the Sub-Committee, had indicated that he would be willing to give up his membership of the Sub-Committee to enable the Vice-Chairman to be appointed as a Member.

It was agreed:

(1) to suspend Standing Orders to enable consideration of this matter; and

(2) that:

(i) the Vice-Chairman be formally appointed as a Member of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee; and

(ii) the Vice-Convener relinquish his membership of the Sub-Committee.

FINANCE

Revenue Expenditure:

Progress Report

AL03.03.01

36

The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred in respect of Arts and Leisure Services during the period 1 April - 30 June 1994. The Report compared such income and expenditure with the provision made in the Revenue Estimates of Income and Expenditure for Arts and Leisure for 1994/95.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Capital Expenditure:

Progress Report

AL03.02.01

37

The Director of Finance submitted a Report concerning the programmes of Capital Expenditure for Education and General Services for 1994/95. The Report detailed the actual expenditure incurred to 30 June 1994 and the estimated expenditure to 31 March 1995 in each programme.

It was agreed to note the Report, for the Committee's interest.

Objective 1 Funding:

Projects

PR79.01

38*

The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning projects considered for Objective 1 Funding. An outline of the criteria for selecting projects was set out in the Report, together with a summary of those projects which had been submitted for consideration for the first round of Objective 1 Funding. It was stated that, in examining potential projects for the first phase of Objective 1 European Funding and in developing the applications, it had become increasingly clear that a major constraint placed upon the Council in accessing European Funds was the level of capital consents available to provide the necessary level of matching funding. This applied to the General Services Consent, the Provisional Allocation for which in 1995/96 was £1.1million. It was suggested that representations be made to the Scottish Office seeking enhanced levels of consent for General Services and Transportation for the Financial Years 1995/96 and 1996/97 to enable the Council to obtain proper access to the European Funding available and to maximise use of that funding. It was proposed that, in the event of enhanced consents not being available and in addition to any enhanced consent which might be received, the Council examine the use to be made of Capital From Current Revenue (CFCR) in future years. It was indicated that the CFCR had made a valuable contribution to the first round of European Regional Development Fund applications. It was noted that, if this contribution was to be sustained and the maximum benefit to be obtained from European Funding, then provision for CFCR in future years should be substantially increased. It was suggested that the minimum level of provision for CFCR in 1995/96 and 1996/97 should be £500,000.

It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest, that:

(1) Fresh representations be made to the Secretary of State on the inadequacy of the Council's Capital Consents if the Council was to have the capability of access to Objective 1 funding opportunities;

(2) that work be undertaken on the following projects with a view to submitting them for second or subsequent rounds of Objective 1 applications:

Tourist Marketing Themes

Tourism Promotion Projects

"Community Programme" type Schemes

Stornoway Arts/Cultural Centre; and

(3) that a planning assumption be made to increase the provision for CFCR projects to £500,000 in 1995/96.

Arising out of consideration of this item, it was agreed that Reports on the availability of sports facilities throughout the Western Isles be submitted to future meetings of the Committee.

Capital Works Programme and Progress

AL03.02.01

39

LAND AND BUILDINGS

The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report for Arts and Leisure properties.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Repairs and Maintenance (Revenue) Programme 1994/95

AL03.03.02

40

The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the Repairs and Maintenance (Revenue) Programme for 1994/95 in respect of Arts and Leisure Properties. The Report detailed the approved expenditure for 1994/95 and the total expenditure committed and expended as at 30 June 1994.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Museum: Francis Street

Building

AL09.01.07

41*

With reference to item 196 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 7 December 1993, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the development of the Francis Street building as a Museum. The background to the matter was set out in the Report, including the summary of problems encountered since conversion work commenced in 1991. It was indicated that work had been carried out in three phases:

(1) basic conversion work to provide display and exhibition facilities, together with general redecoration to the existing fabric;

(2) major fabric repairs including window replacement, rafter and joist end replacement and roof replacement. This phase was substantially complete; and

(3) the development programme comprising the provision of physical and environmental security, new lighting, floor coverings, decoration, picture rails, signs, receptionist/workstation/sales point, blinds and special film on windows and display equipment. The work in this phase was at various stages of completion for the individual elements.

It was stated that the anticipated total expenditure required to complete the museum conversion was £837,362, including European Regional Development Fund Grants. Total provision available, including ERDF Grant, was £707,000 leading to a shortfall of £130,362. The Report outlined the method of procurement of the works, cost monitoring during the project and the sources of external funding which had been available to the Council towards the cost of the works. It was suggested that should Objective 1 applications not proceed in the current financial year, consideration be given to adequate capital commitment being transferred to the Francis Street Museum, in order to fund the completion of the works prior to the official opening in June 1995. In the absence of any funding being made available in the current financial year, it was further suggested that consideration be given to provision being included in Year 1 of the General Services Financial Plan Capital Expenditure 1995-99 in order to complete the works prior to an official opening in September 1995.

It was agreed to recommend that consideration be given as part of the Council's half-yearly financial review of Revenue and Capital Expenditure, to funding being made available in order to enable completion of the Francis Street Museum to enable the Museum's official opening in June 1995.

It was further agreed that:

(1) the Chief Executive undertake a full investigation into the technical and financial aspects of the project and report the outcome of the investigation to a future meeting of the Committee;

(2) the Committee undertake a visit to the Francis Street Museum building at an early date;

(3) the Policy and Resources Committee be asked to undertake a survey of old surplus buildings within the Council's ownership, with a view to a decision being taken on the future use or disposal of buildings.

Museum:

Storage

AL09.01

42*

With reference to item 196 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 7 December 1993, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning the provision of storage facilities for the Museum Service. It was stated that an application to the Scottish Museums Council for a grant of £20,000 towards the cost of providing a Museum store at Torlum had been successful on the basis that matching funding would be available from European Regional Development Fund Grant. It was indicated that it had been found necessary to commit the full amount of ERDF grant to the development of the Francis Street building. As a result, matching funding would not now be available to enable the Scottish Museums Council grant to be taken up. It was proposed that the Scottish Museums Council be advised that the Council was no longer able to take up its offer of grant in the current financial year in order to allow the funds to be released for use by other institutions. It was suggested that a sum of £20,000 be included in the General Services Capital Expenditure Programme for 1995/96 and a further application be submitted to the Scottish Museums Council for funding in respect of the Torlum Store. Concerning the storage for the Museum in Stornoway, it was proposed that a study of the storage requirements be undertaken as part of the feasibility study for the old County Hospital Site.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) consideration be given to the inclusion of the sum of £20,000 in the General Services Capital Expenditure Programme for 1995/96 to enable an application to be submitted to the Scottish Museums Council for matching funds in respect of the proposed Museum Storage facility at Torlum; and

(2) a study of Museum storage requirements be included as part of the feasibility study for the former County Hospital site; subject to a further Report to the Committee;

on the basis that both schemes be the subject of Project Initiation Reports, before final approval.

Stornoway Town Hall:

Application for Rent Reduction

LB35.01

43*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application for rent reduction for the use of Stornoway Town Hall which had been received from the Stornoway and District Round Table in respect of the Lewis Carnival 1994. It was indicated in the Report that the applicants had been granted free use of Stornoway Town Hall for functions on 8, 9 and 10 August 1994.

It was agreed to recommend homologation of the action of the Director of Education and Leisure Services in granting free use of Stornoway Town Hall to the Stornoway and District Round Table for functions on 8, 9 and 10 August 1994 in respect of the Lewis Carnival 1994.

THE ARTS

Applications for Financial Assistance

AL05

44*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted Reports detailing applications for financial assistance from a number of organisations and commenting on each application.

It was agreed to recommend that revenue grants be awarded as follows:

Recipient

Purpose

Grant

Budget

Aisteoiri Aon Drama, Beal Feirste (AL05.03)

Tour to the Western Isles

Guarantee against loss of up to £1,000

Other Leisure Provision (The Arts)

The Clown Jewels (AL05.03.49)

Proposed Western Isles Winter Tour

No financial assistance, but group may be offered free use of Council facilities, if tour proceeds

Other Leisure Provision (The Arts)

National Gaelic Arts Project

AL05.03.47

45*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application from the National Gaelic Arts Project for Financial Assistance in the year 1994/95. Details of the projects for which assistance was sought were appended to the Report. Proposals for assistance towards each project were outlined in the Report, together with an explanation for the level of support proposed.

It was agreed to recommend that the National Gaelic Arts Project be awarded financial assistance in respect of its projects in 1994/95 as detailed in the Appendix to the Minute.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Community Centres and Village Halls:

Revision of "Performance" Grant Scheme

AL04.03

46*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning a proposed revision of the Council's Scheme of "Performance" Grants towards the operating costs of local community centres and village halls. The Report set out the background to the matter. It was indicated that an additional £10,000 had been provided in the Revenue Estimates for Arts and Leisure for assistance through the Performance Grants Scheme. In view of this growth, it was necessary to devise a new formula for disbursing grants. Proposals for a revised Scheme based on the size and use of each facility were outlined in the Report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the following Scheme of "Performance" grants for community centres and village halls active in the Western Isles be adopted:

WEEKLY USE ENHANCEMENTS

TYPE

BASE

(1)

UP TO 5 SESSIONS

(2)

5-8 SESSIONS

(3)

9+ SESSIONS

A

£500

£100

£150

£200

B

£200

£100

£150

£200

C

£150

£100

£150

£150

(2) the Director of Education and Leisure Services be granted delegated powers to deal with all applications for "performance" grants under the new arrangements.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Museum Opening:

Exhibition Proposals

AL09.01.07

47*

With reference to item 17 of the Minute of Meting of 17 May 1994, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for the opening exhibition for Museum nan Eilean, Stornoway. The background to the matter was set out in the Report. Proposals for the opening exhibition and potential loans of artefacts were appended to the Report. It was indicated that it was intended to mount an exhibition featuring the Lewis Chessmen and the Archaeology of the Island at the end of June 1995 to mark the opening of the Museum, subject to a decision by the National Museums of Scotland regarding the

proposed loan material. It was stated that the exhibition would be on show until June 1996. It was suggested that the marketing opportunities and tourism potential of the exhibition be investigated, in particular in relation to other events planned for 1995/96, such as the opening of the Callanish Visitor Centre and a An Lanntair's tenth anniversary exhibition. It was proposed that external advice be sought to arrange an appropriate chess tournament to accompany the exhibition of the Lewis Chessmen. Proposals were put forward for discussion with relevant institutions and agencies to investigate the feasibility of a conference on the archaeology of the island, subject to a further Report on the financial implications of such a conference. It was stated that the estimated cost of the opening exhibition was approximately £61,000 to be spread over the financial years 1994/95, 1995/96 and 1996/97.

It was agreed to recommend:

(1) approval of the proposals for the opening exhibition of Museum nan Eilean, Stornoway; and

(2) approval of expenditure of £12,000 in the current financial year towards the preparation for the exhibition, and commitment of £44,500 in 1995/96 and £5,500 in 1996/97 to enable the exhibition to proceed.

TOURISM

Scottish Tourism: Strategic Plan

AL10.01

48*

The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the strategy plan on Scottish Tourism prepared by the Scottish Tourism Co-ordinating Group. The background to the preparation of the plan was outlined in the Report. Comments on the draft plan were set out in the Report covering aims, objectives and targets, the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and 'threats' and the key issues and priorities as set out in the draft strategic plan.

It was agreed to recommend that the comments set out in the Report by the Chief Executive form the basis of the Council's response to the Scottish Tourism Strategic Plan, and that the Chief Executive be authorised to respond in line with the timescale for the submission of comments.

Tourism Development Programme

AL10.01.07

49*

The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Tourism Development Programme. It was indicated that the Programme had been initiated in 1989 for a three year period in order to implement the Western Isles Tourism Strategy. The Programme had been extended for a further three year period in order to build on the success of the first three years. It was stated that work in the second period was concerned with creating and improving visitor facilities within the Western Isles and it was indicated that progress had been made with the implementation of the Western Isles Tourism Interpretation Strategy. It was noted that the Tourism Development Programme was directed by a policy group appointed from the Council, Western Isles Enterprise and the Western Isles Tourist Board, together with a Steering Group of officers appointed from the same organisations. It was indicated that the Council's representation on the policy group required to be reconsidered in light of the reorganisation of the committee structure, and to allow a meeting to be called to assess the progress made with the Tourism Development Programme and to review objectives and future activities, including the utilisation of Objective 1 Funding.

It was agreed:

(1) to note the Report by the Chief Executive; and

(2) to recommend that Mr Alasdair G Macrae be appointed to the Policy Group of the Tourism Development Programme.

Urras nan

Tursachan - Callanish Trust

AL10.01.05

50*

With reference to item 20 of the Minute of Meeting of 14 June 1994, the Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning Urras nan Tursachan which had been established to operate the Callanish Visitor Centre. It was stated that the organisation had been established as a company limited by guarantee and the memorandum and articles of association of the company had been submitted for approval by the Council. It was stated that the Council had appointed two Directors to serve on the Board of the Company, and the Council was now requested to appoint an alternate Director to attend if either of the nominated Directors were unable to attend Meetings of the Company's Board and to appoint one of the nominated Directors to act as spokesman for the Council at general meetings of the Company.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) Mr Alexander A Macdonald be appointed as the Council's spokesman at general meetings of Urras nan Tursachan;

(2) that Mr Alasdair G Macrae be appointed as alternate Director to serve on the Board of Urras nan Tursachan; and

(3) that the memorandum and articles of association of Urras nan Tursachan be formally approved for the Council's interest.

YOUTH WORK

Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award

AL07.01.16

51*

With reference to Item 80 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 20 April 1993, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application for financial assistance from the Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The Report outlined the operation of the project since September 1993. Details of the funding application were appended to the Report.

It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest, that:

(1) a revenue grant of £3,000 be awarded to the Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award from the Other Leisure Provision (Youth Work) Budget 1994/95;

(2) the Council continues to provide free office accommodation and services to the project in 1994/95; and

(3) specific provision for revenue assistance to the project for 1995/96 be considered in the context of the preparation of the Revenue Estimates for Arts and Leisure.

CONFERENCES AND COURSES

Art and Culture in Tourism

AL10.01.07

52*

The Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report concerning an international heritage convention to be held in Elgin on 4-7 October 1994. Details of the convention programme were appended to the Report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Council be represented at the international heritage convention; and

(2) the Chairman or his nominee represent the Council at the convention.

APPENDIX

NATIONAL GAELIC ARTS PROJECT

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 1994/95

Project

Direct

Funding

Indirect

Assistance

Drama na h-Alba

Nil

Pantomime

£1000

£100 (facilities provided free of charge at 4 venues)

Drama Training

£1800

Touring Play

£1000

£100 (facilities provided free of charge at 4 venues)

Theatre Company

Nil

Music Core

Nil

Song Documentation

Nil

Music Training

£500

£50 (facilities provided free of charge at 2 venues)

Song Writing

Nil

Multi-Media

£1000

Promotion and Research

£1000

_______


PRESENT	Mr Alasdair G Macrae (Vice-Chairman) (In the Chair)
	Mrs Katie M Mackenzie	Mr Donald I Nicholson
	Mr Roderick Macdonald	Mr Callum I Macmillan
	Mr Angus M Graham	Mr Donald M Mackay
	Mr Alasdair Nicholson	Mr Kenneth Mackay
	Mr Donald Murray	Mrs Christina McNeill
	Mr George Lonie	Mrs Mary Bremner

APOLOGIES	Mr Donald Macleod

Welcome: Mrs Christina McNeill		The Chairman welcomed Mrs Christina McNeill, Member for the Paible Electoral Division, to her first Meeting of the Committee.
		MINUTES
Arts and Leisure AL01.02	34	The Minute of Meeting of 14 June 1994 was approved.
		CONSTITUTION
Membership of Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee AL01.02	35	With reference to item 5 of the Minute of Meeting of 17 May 1994, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report concerning proposals concerning a change in the Membership of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee. It was indicated that, since the Sub-Committee membership had been approved in May 1994, the view had been expressed that the Vice-Chairman of the Arts and Leisure Committee should be a Member of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee. It was stated that there was no provision in the Scheme of Administration for the Vice-Chairman of the Committee to be ex-officio a Member of the Sub-Committee. It was indicated that the Vice-Convener, who was a Member of the Sub-Committee, had indicated that he would be willing to give up his membership of the Sub-Committee to enable the Vice-Chairman to be appointed as a Member.
		It was agreed: (1) to suspend Standing Orders to enable consideration of this matter; and (2) that: (i) the Vice-Chairman be formally appointed as a Member of the Arts and Leisure Sub-Committee; and (ii) the Vice-Convener relinquish his membership of the Sub-Committee.
		FINANCE
Revenue Expenditure: Progress Report AL03.03.01	36	The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred in respect of Arts and Leisure Services during the period 1 April - 30 June 1994. The Report compared such income and expenditure with the provision made in the Revenue Estimates of Income and Expenditure for Arts and Leisure for 1994/95. It was agreed to note the Report.
Capital Expenditure: Progress Report AL03.02.01	37	The Director of Finance submitted a Report concerning the programmes of Capital Expenditure for Education and General Services for 1994/95. The Report detailed the actual expenditure incurred to 30 June 1994 and the estimated expenditure to 31 March 1995 in each programme. It was agreed to note the Report, for the Committee's interest.
Objective 1 Funding: Projects PR79.01	38*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning projects considered for Objective 1 Funding. An outline of the criteria for selecting projects was set out in the Report, together with a summary of those projects which had been submitted for consideration for the first round of Objective 1 Funding. It was stated that, in examining potential projects for the first phase of Objective 1 European Funding and in developing the applications, it had become increasingly clear that a major constraint placed upon the Council in accessing European Funds was the level of capital consents available to provide the necessary level of matching funding. This applied to the General Services Consent, the Provisional Allocation for which in 1995/96 was £1.1million. It was suggested that representations be made to the Scottish Office seeking enhanced levels of consent for General Services and Transportation for the Financial Years 1995/96 and 1996/97 to enable the Council to obtain proper access to the European Funding available and to maximise use of that funding. It was proposed that, in the event of enhanced consents not being available and in addition to any enhanced consent which might be received, the Council examine the use to be made of Capital From Current Revenue (CFCR) in future years. It was indicated that the CFCR had made a valuable contribution to the first round of European Regional Development Fund applications. It was noted that, if this contribution was to be sustained and the maximum benefit to be obtained from European Funding, then provision for CFCR in future years should be substantially increased. It was suggested that the minimum level of provision for CFCR in 1995/96 and 1996/97 should be £500,000.
		It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest, that: (1) Fresh representations be made to the Secretary of State on the inadequacy of the Council's Capital Consents if the Council was to have the capability of access to Objective 1 funding opportunities; (2) that work be undertaken on the following projects with a view to submitting them for second or subsequent rounds of Objective 1 applications: Tourist Marketing Themes Tourism Promotion Projects "Community Programme" type Schemes Stornoway Arts/Cultural Centre; and (3) that a planning assumption be made to increase the provision for CFCR projects to £500,000 in 1995/96. Arising out of consideration of this item, it was agreed that Reports on the availability of sports facilities throughout the Western Isles be submitted to future meetings of the Committee.
Capital Works Programme and Progress AL03.02.01	39	LAND AND BUILDINGS The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report for Arts and Leisure properties. It was agreed to note the Report.
Repairs and Maintenance (Revenue) Programme 1994/95 AL03.03.02	40	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the Repairs and Maintenance (Revenue) Programme for 1994/95 in respect of Arts and Leisure Properties. The Report detailed the approved expenditure for 1994/95 and the total expenditure committed and expended as at 30 June 1994. It was agreed to note the Report.
Museum: Francis Street Building AL09.01.07	41*	With reference to item 196 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 7 December 1993, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the development of the Francis Street building as a Museum. The background to the matter was set out in the Report, including the summary of problems encountered since conversion work commenced in 1991. It was indicated that work had been carried out in three phases: (1) basic conversion work to provide display and exhibition facilities, together with general redecoration to the existing fabric; (2) major fabric repairs including window replacement, rafter and joist end replacement and roof replacement. This phase was substantially complete; and (3) the development programme comprising the provision of physical and environmental security, new lighting, floor coverings, decoration, picture rails, signs, receptionist/workstation/sales point, blinds and special film on windows and display equipment. The work in this phase was at various stages of completion for the individual elements. It was stated that the anticipated total expenditure required to complete the museum conversion was £837,362, including European Regional Development Fund Grants. Total provision available, including ERDF Grant, was £707,000 leading to a shortfall of £130,362. The Report outlined the method of procurement of the works, cost monitoring during the project and the sources of external funding which had been available to the Council towards the cost of the works. It was suggested that should Objective 1 applications not proceed in the current financial year, consideration be given to adequate capital commitment being transferred to the Francis Street Museum, in order to fund the completion of the works prior to the official opening in June 1995. In the absence of any funding being made available in the current financial year, it was further suggested that consideration be given to provision being included in Year 1 of the General Services Financial Plan Capital Expenditure 1995-99 in order to complete the works prior to an official opening in September 1995.
		It was agreed to recommend that consideration be given as part of the Council's half-yearly financial review of Revenue and Capital Expenditure, to funding being made available in order to enable completion of the Francis Street Museum to enable the Museum's official opening in June 1995.
		It was further agreed that: (1) the Chief Executive undertake a full investigation into the technical and financial aspects of the project and report the outcome of the investigation to a future meeting of the Committee; (2) the Committee undertake a visit to the Francis Street Museum building at an early date;
		(3) the Policy and Resources Committee be asked to undertake a survey of old surplus buildings within the Council's ownership, with a view to a decision being taken on the future use or disposal of buildings.
Museum: Storage AL09.01	42*	With reference to item 196 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 7 December 1993, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning the provision of storage facilities for the Museum Service. It was stated that an application to the Scottish Museums Council for a grant of £20,000 towards the cost of providing a Museum store at Torlum had been successful on the basis that matching funding would be available from European Regional Development Fund Grant. It was indicated that it had been found necessary to commit the full amount of ERDF grant to the development of the Francis Street building. As a result, matching funding would not now be available to enable the Scottish Museums Council grant to be taken up. It was proposed that the Scottish Museums Council be advised that the Council was no longer able to take up its offer of grant in the current financial year in order to allow the funds to be released for use by other institutions. It was suggested that a sum of £20,000 be included in the General Services Capital Expenditure Programme for 1995/96 and a further application be submitted to the Scottish Museums Council for funding in respect of the Torlum Store. Concerning the storage for the Museum in Stornoway, it was proposed that a study of the storage requirements be undertaken as part of the feasibility study for the old County Hospital Site.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) consideration be given to the inclusion of the sum of £20,000 in the General Services Capital Expenditure Programme for 1995/96 to enable an application to be submitted to the Scottish Museums Council for matching funds in respect of the proposed Museum Storage facility at Torlum; and (2) a study of Museum storage requirements be included as part of the feasibility study for the former County Hospital site; subject to a further Report to the Committee; on the basis that both schemes be the subject of Project Initiation Reports, before final approval.
Stornoway Town Hall: Application for Rent Reduction LB35.01	43*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application for rent reduction for the use of Stornoway Town Hall which had been received from the Stornoway and District Round Table in respect of the Lewis Carnival 1994. It was indicated in the Report that the applicants had been granted free use of Stornoway Town Hall for functions on 8, 9 and 10 August 1994.
		It was agreed to recommend homologation of the action of the Director of Education and Leisure Services in granting free use of Stornoway Town Hall to the Stornoway and District Round Table for functions on 8, 9 and 10 August 1994 in respect of the Lewis Carnival 1994.
		THE ARTS
Applications for Financial Assistance AL05	44*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted Reports detailing applications for financial assistance from a number of organisations and commenting on each application.
		It was agreed to recommend that revenue grants be awarded as follows:

Recipient	Purpose	Grant	Budget
Aisteoiri Aon Drama, Beal Feirste (AL05.03)	Tour to the Western Isles	Guarantee against loss of up to £1,000	Other Leisure Provision (The Arts)
The Clown Jewels (AL05.03.49)	Proposed Western Isles Winter Tour	No financial assistance, but group may be offered free use of Council facilities, if tour proceeds	Other Leisure Provision (The Arts)


National Gaelic Arts Project AL05.03.47	45*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application from the National Gaelic Arts Project for Financial Assistance in the year 1994/95. Details of the projects for which assistance was sought were appended to the Report. Proposals for assistance towards each project were outlined in the Report, together with an explanation for the level of support proposed.
		It was agreed to recommend that the National Gaelic Arts Project be awarded financial assistance in respect of its projects in 1994/95 as detailed in the Appendix to the Minute.
		COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Community Centres and Village Halls: Revision of "Performance" Grant Scheme AL04.03	46*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning a proposed revision of the Council's Scheme of "Performance" Grants towards the operating costs of local community centres and village halls. The Report set out the background to the matter. It was indicated that an additional £10,000 had been provided in the Revenue Estimates for Arts and Leisure for assistance through the Performance Grants Scheme. In view of this growth, it was necessary to devise a new formula for disbursing grants. Proposals for a revised Scheme based on the size and use of each facility were outlined in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the following Scheme of "Performance" grants for community centres and village halls active in the Western Isles be adopted:
					WEEKLY USE ENHANCEMENTS
			TYPE	BASE	(1) UP TO 5 SESSIONS	(2) 5-8 SESSIONS	(3) 9+ SESSIONS
			A	£500	£100	£150	£200
			B	£200	£100	£150	£200
			C	£150	£100	£150	£150
		(2) the Director of Education and Leisure Services be granted delegated powers to deal with all applications for "performance" grants under the new arrangements.
		MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
Museum Opening: Exhibition Proposals AL09.01.07	47*	With reference to item 17 of the Minute of Meting of 17 May 1994, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for the opening exhibition for Museum nan Eilean, Stornoway. The background to the matter was set out in the Report. Proposals for the opening exhibition and potential loans of artefacts were appended to the Report. It was indicated that it was intended to mount an exhibition featuring the Lewis Chessmen and the Archaeology of the Island at the end of June 1995 to mark the opening of the Museum, subject to a decision by the National Museums of Scotland regarding the
		proposed loan material. It was stated that the exhibition would be on show until June 1996. It was suggested that the marketing opportunities and tourism potential of the exhibition be investigated, in particular in relation to other events planned for 1995/96, such as the opening of the Callanish Visitor Centre and a An Lanntair's tenth anniversary exhibition. It was proposed that external advice be sought to arrange an appropriate chess tournament to accompany the exhibition of the Lewis Chessmen. Proposals were put forward for discussion with relevant institutions and agencies to investigate the feasibility of a conference on the archaeology of the island, subject to a further Report on the financial implications of such a conference. It was stated that the estimated cost of the opening exhibition was approximately £61,000 to be spread over the financial years 1994/95, 1995/96 and 1996/97.
		It was agreed to recommend: (1) approval of the proposals for the opening exhibition of Museum nan Eilean, Stornoway; and (2) approval of expenditure of £12,000 in the current financial year towards the preparation for the exhibition, and commitment of £44,500 in 1995/96 and £5,500 in 1996/97 to enable the exhibition to proceed.
		TOURISM
Scottish Tourism: Strategic Plan AL10.01	48*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the strategy plan on Scottish Tourism prepared by the Scottish Tourism Co-ordinating Group. The background to the preparation of the plan was outlined in the Report. Comments on the draft plan were set out in the Report covering aims, objectives and targets, the analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and 'threats' and the key issues and priorities as set out in the draft strategic plan.
		It was agreed to recommend that the comments set out in the Report by the Chief Executive form the basis of the Council's response to the Scottish Tourism Strategic Plan, and that the Chief Executive be authorised to respond in line with the timescale for the submission of comments.
Tourism Development Programme AL10.01.07	49*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Tourism Development Programme. It was indicated that the Programme had been initiated in 1989 for a three year period in order to implement the Western Isles Tourism Strategy. The Programme had been extended for a further three year period in order to build on the success of the first three years. It was stated that work in the second period was concerned with creating and improving visitor facilities within the Western Isles and it was indicated that progress had been made with the implementation of the Western Isles Tourism Interpretation Strategy. It was noted that the Tourism Development Programme was directed by a policy group appointed from the Council, Western Isles Enterprise and the Western Isles Tourist Board, together with a Steering Group of officers appointed from the same organisations. It was indicated that the Council's representation on the policy group required to be reconsidered in light of the reorganisation of the committee structure, and to allow a meeting to be called to assess the progress made with the Tourism Development Programme and to review objectives and future activities, including the utilisation of Objective 1 Funding.
		It was agreed: (1) to note the Report by the Chief Executive; and (2) to recommend that Mr Alasdair G Macrae be appointed to the Policy Group of the Tourism Development Programme.
Urras nan Tursachan - Callanish Trust AL10.01.05	50*	With reference to item 20 of the Minute of Meeting of 14 June 1994, the Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning Urras nan Tursachan which had been established to operate the Callanish Visitor Centre. It was stated that the organisation had been established as a company limited by guarantee and the memorandum and articles of association of the company had been submitted for approval by the Council. It was stated that the Council had appointed two Directors to serve on the Board of the Company, and the Council was now requested to appoint an alternate Director to attend if either of the nominated Directors were unable to attend Meetings of the Company's Board and to appoint one of the nominated Directors to act as spokesman for the Council at general meetings of the Company.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) Mr Alexander A Macdonald be appointed as the Council's spokesman at general meetings of Urras nan Tursachan; (2) that Mr Alasdair G Macrae be appointed as alternate Director to serve on the Board of Urras nan Tursachan; and (3) that the memorandum and articles of association of Urras nan Tursachan be formally approved for the Council's interest.
		YOUTH WORK
Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award AL07.01.16	51*	With reference to Item 80 of the Minute of Meeting of the Education Committee of 20 April 1993, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report concerning an application for financial assistance from the Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The Report outlined the operation of the project since September 1993. Details of the funding application were appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest, that: (1) a revenue grant of £3,000 be awarded to the Western Isles Duke of Edinburgh's Award from the Other Leisure Provision (Youth Work) Budget 1994/95; (2) the Council continues to provide free office accommodation and services to the project in 1994/95; and (3) specific provision for revenue assistance to the project for 1995/96 be considered in the context of the preparation of the Revenue Estimates for Arts and Leisure.
		CONFERENCES AND COURSES
Art and Culture in Tourism AL10.01.07	52*	The Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report concerning an international heritage convention to be held in Elgin on 4-7 October 1994. Details of the convention programme were appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Council be represented at the international heritage convention; and (2) the Chairman or his nominee represent the Council at the convention.

	Project	Direct Funding	Indirect Assistance
	Drama na h-Alba	Nil
	Pantomime	£1000	£100 (facilities provided free of charge at 4 venues)
	Drama Training	£1800
	Touring Play	£1000	£100 (facilities provided free of charge at 4 venues)
	Theatre Company	Nil
	Music Core	Nil
	Song Documentation	Nil
	Music Training	£500	£50 (facilities provided free of charge at 2 venues)
	Song Writing	Nil
	Multi-Media	£1000
	Promotion and Research	£1000
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