AL9801

ARTS AND LEISURE COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Tuesday 27 January 1998 at 9.00 a.m

PRESENT

Mr Alasdair G Macrae (Chairman)

Mrs Katie M Mackenzie (Vice-Chairman)

Mr Roderick Macdonald

Mr Roderick Morrison

Mr Norman A Macdonald

Mr Angus M Graham

Mr Alasdair Nicholson

Mr Donald Murray

Mr George Lonie

Mr Callum I Macmillan

Mr Kenneth Mackay

Mrs Mary Bremner

MINUTES

Arts and Leisure

C02.13

1

The Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997 was approved.

FINANCE

1997/98 Capital Monitoring: Non HRA

PR110.01.23

2

With reference to Item 10 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 December 1997 the Director of Finance submitted a Report concerning the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 1 April - 31 December 1997 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the projected out-turn expenditure for the financial year 1997/98.

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

The Chairman ruled in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in Standing Order 8(a) that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency to enable the Comhairle to determine the Capital Expenditure Programme for the next three years and to allow officers to undertake the necessary preparatory work.

Capital Programme 1998/99 - 2000/01

PR110.01.25

3*

The Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Capital Programme for the three years 1998/99 to 2000/01. The Report outlined the outcome of the Capital Expenditure Seminar. A proposed Capital Programme was appended to the Report, together with a statement showing the balance of Capital Resources available after taking account of known commitments for the three year period.

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

(1) approval of the draft Capital Programme 1998/99 as detailed in Appendix A to the Report by the Director of Finance;

(2) approval of the Capital Programme for 1999/2000 and 2000/01 based on the draft Programme shown in Appendix A; and

(3) that the Chief Executive continue to negotiate with Western Isles Enterprise regarding matching funding for Capital Project.

AEF Announcement, Policy Framework and Budget Strategy 1998/99

PR110.03.24

4*

With reference to item 53 of the Minute of Meeting of 29 September 1997, the Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the final Aggregate External Finance (AEF) announcement and outlining a revised budget strategy for 1998/99. Details of the AEF Settlement were appended to the Report, together with changes in grant aided expenditure. Comments on the effect of the AEF settlement, the 1997/98 budgetary performance and movements in reserves, balances and the contingency fund were outlined in the Report. Policy issues arising which required to be addressed by the Council in the budgetary process were detailed in the Report.

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

1. should the total underspend on transportation exceed the 2% carry forward as a result of underspending on Highways Winter Maintenance in 1997/98 then the carry forward to 1998/99 would be increased by the amount of underspend on Highways Winter Maintenance;

2. any underspending on WISBAS and WIFAS Schemes in 1997/98 should be permitted to be carried forward to 1998/99;

3. In setting the cash planning limits:

(a) the assumed level of pay increases in the Budget be 2.5%;

(b) the increased provision for employers' pension contributions be 1.4% of the current wages bill;

(c) the presumed level of inflation be 1.25%;

(d) the income for fees and charges set by the Comhairle be assumed to generate 5% more income;

(e) all new borrowing, whether it be short or long term, be assumed to be achieved at average rates of 7.5%;

(f) for the purposes of modelling the behaviour of DLO/DSO Employee Costs, they be vired from the running costs, to the employee costs column of the model in the relevant services thereby increasing their provision for inflation from 1.25% to 4.22%;

(g) the additional resources for Education be set at £527,000 and the Director of Education and Leisure Services be requested to produce a Report detailing how extra non-recurring expenditure of £649,000 be spent on the priorities determined by the Government;

(h) an additional £55,000 be included to match growth in the Police Specific Grant;

(i) as a planning provision, £25,000 be included for the anticipated additional Fire Board requisition;

(j) no further resources be made to Social Work as a result of on-going Care in the Community transfer;

(k) additional resources of £20,500 be included as growth in the Environmental Service Budget to implement the recommendations of the Pennington report and to improve present inspection coverage;

(l) £63,000 of growth be provided to the Social Work Committee to fund the revenue costs of a new Residential Facility for Adults with Learning Disabilities;

(m) £2500 growth be included in the Housing General Fund Cash Planning Limit to protect the Grant to Women's Aid;

(n) £2800 growth be included in the Parks and Open Spaces Cash Planning Limit for the provision of Christmas trees;

(o) the anticipated receipt for interest on revenue balances be increased from £400,000 to £800,000;

(p) growth of £7500 be included in the Housing General Fund Cash Planning Limit for Inter-fund Movements associated with staffing reductions; and

(q) £16,500 be included as growth towards additional SEPA licensing costs for refuse tips; and

4. the Budgetary Process outlined in the Report be adopted.

Draft Annual Budget Book 1998/99

PR110.03.24

5*

The Director of Finance submitted the draft Budget Book for the Financial Year 1998/99 detailing the income and revenue expenditure budgeted for each of the Council's services in the financial year 1 April 1998 to 31 March 1999.

It was agreed to recommend approval of the draft Budget Book 1998/99, for the Committee's interest, subject to such further amendments as would be approved by the Council.

Growth and Savings Proposals for 1998/99 Budget: Revised

PR110.03.24

6*

The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing revised growth and savings proposals for consideration as part of the 1998/99 budgetary process.

It was agreed to defer consideration of this Report until after a Special Meeting of the Finance Sub-Committee.

BUILDINGS

Capital Works Programme and Progress

AL02.02.01

7

With reference to Item 113 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Programme and Progress Report in relation to the Arts and Leisure Capital Programme.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre Games Deck

AL02.01.01

8*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to improve the use of the games deck area of the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre. It was stated that table tennis equipment had been lost due to the recent fire at the Sports Centre and this had given an opportunity to reconsider a provision of games facilities at the Centre. It was suggested that a pool table and football table would be more popular and provide a considerable increase in revenue income. It was proposed that a pool table be purchased at an estimated cost of £900 and a football table rented at a cost of £15 per month. It was estimated that net income from the pool table and football table would be approximately £3,700 in the first year, after taking account of expenses and it was anticipated that the use of the facilities would improve income to the cafeteria.

It was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to replace the table tennis equipment at the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre with a football table and a pool table, these facilities to be financed from the additional income generated.

Arising out of consideration of this matter, concern was expressed over the position by the Scottish Football Association to award the Television Broadcasting rights of the Scotland World Cup football games to Channel 5. The view was expressed that this course of action would deny access to sport for a large number of people in Scotland, and particularly in the Highlands and Islands.

It was agreed that the Chairman make representations to Mr Sam Galbraith, the Scottish Office Minister for Sport, asking him to set up an enquiry into the effect of his decision on access to sport and to Mr Jim Farry, Chief Executive, Scottish Football Association, asking him to ensure that the Association did everything possible to promote access to sport throughout Scotland.

In response to a question regarding the closure of the all-weather sports facilities for maintenance on Friday evenings, the Director of Education and Leisure Services reported that Monday evenings to Thursday evenings were those with the highest demand for the facility and that least use was made of the facility on Friday evenings. He stated that it was necessary to close the facility for maintenance and, in light of pattern of use, Friday evenings had been chosen.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education and Leisure Services seek an alternative time for the maintenance of the all-weather sports facility, especially with the longer day light hours, and introduce for a pilot period and under -12's night on Friday evenings with effect from March 1998.

Following further discussion it was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services submit a Report regarding the possible introduction of video games to the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre.

Lews Castle: Formation of Company Limited by Guarantee

E02.20.08

9*

With reference to Item 37(1) of the Minute of Meeting of the Council of 21 October 1997, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to establish a "Trust" to consider and safeguard the future maintenance and development of the Lews Castle Building. It was suggested that a company limited by guarantee be formed to take up the role it envisaged for the trust. Information regarding companies limited by guarantee was set out in the Report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Director of Administration and Legal Services be authorised to set up a Company limited by guarantee having the following objects:

(a) the provision of social, cultural, education and recreational activities in na h-Eileanan an Iar;

(b) the management of any properties which are now or may hereafter be within the Comhairle's ownership to ensure that such activities are adequately and properly promoted;

(c) the promotion of ancillary activities (e.g. office accommodation) to enable the principal activities to be carried out and assist in the carrying out of such activities; and

(d) to do everything necessary to implement the above aims;

(2) it be delegated to the Director of Administration and Legal Services, in consultation with the Director of Education and Leisure Services and the Director of Finance, to finalise the terms and conditions of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company;

(3) the Comhairle initially be the sole member of the Company and the first Directors of the Company be the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Arts and Leisure Committee; and

(4) Members be invited to submit suggestions for a name for the company.

Community Events: Provision of Marquee

AL04.08

10

With reference to Item 116 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to purpose a demountable marquee for use at major community events and Council functions. Details of the proposals were set out in the Report, together with estimated costs for different sizes of marquee.

It was agreed to defer consideration of the matter pending the provision of additional information regarding the potential demand for the marquee and the costs for operation and storage.

APPLICATIONS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Feis Nan Coisir 1998

AL11.02

11*

With reference to Item 40 of the Minute of Meeting of 22 April 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding an application from Feis Nan Coisir for financial assistance in respect of the 1998 Feis. It was stated that Feis nan Coisir 1997 had been awarded a guarantee against loss of up to £1,800 towards its staging costs. It was noted that the Feis Organisation had indicated that, as its receipts and payments for 1997 were satisfactory, the guarantee would not be taken up. It was indicated that a request for support for Feis na Coisir 1998, which would be held between 25 - 28 March 1998 had been received and it was proposed that the guarantee against loss for 1997 be allocated to the 1998 Feis.

It was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to transfer the guarantee against loss of up to £1,800 allocated to Feis Nan Coisir 1997 for use in connection with Feis Nan Coisir 1998.

Highland Festival Request for Grant Aid

AL05.03

12*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding an application from the Highland Festival for a grant of £1,900 towards their project "The Big Picture"/"An Dealbh Mor". Details of the funding request were appended to the Report. It was stated that the application had been lodged at a very late date and there was insufficient funds in the budget to grant the request.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the grant request from Highland Festival be not approved; and

(2) the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to advise the Highland Festival organisers that applications for grant aid must be lodged timeously.

THE ARTS

Arts and Culture Policy Update

AL05.01

13*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to update the Comhairle's policy on the arts, development and culture. It was stated that the Policy Statement for Arts and Culture in the Western Isles was under review and the revised policy would provide a framework within which to develop a new regional arts plan. Proposals were set out for amendments to the definition and scope of the policy, a general policy for the arts, financial policies for the arts, staffing, promotional aspects and review procedure. The Comhairle's role in relation to outside agencies was outlined in the Report.

It was agreed that Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to amend the Policy Statement for the arts and culture in the Western Isles on the basis detailed in the Report, and to implement the revised Policy.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Play Areas:

Non-Council Properties - Financial Support Policy

AL02.12

14*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding a proposed policy in respect of the financial support to be offered to groups undertaking improvements to Non-Council Play Areas. It was stated that the Comhairle's existing policy was that Groups undertaking improvements to non-Council play areas were not eligible for support from the Comhairle's Play Area Budgets. It was noted that this Policy made it difficult for the Groups to access funding from other Agencies. It was suggested that, in order to overcome such difficulties, the Groups concerned be eligible for financial support for the equipment aspects of Projects and be funded from the Community Education Budget at the normal rate of 30% of eligible expenditure.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to implement a revised policy to finance the equipment aspects of non-Council owned Play Areas Development Projects from the Community Education Budget at the normal rate of 30% of eligible expenditure.

Play Areas Update

AL02.02

15*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report outlining the current position with regard to play areas throughout the Western Isles. All the play areas currently owned by the Comhairle were identified in the Report. It was stated that the play areas had been assessed and a priority list for refurbishment had been drawn up based on the following criteria:

(1) possible Health and Safety issue;

(2) condition of equipment;

(3) number of children the play area usefully served; and

(4) anticipated cost of restoring to BS5696 standard, or the European equivalent.

The priority list for renovation suggested by the Play Area Working Group was appended to the Report.

It was agreed to recommend:

(1) approval of the priority list of play areas as detailed in the Appendix to the Minute; and

(2) the policy of continuing to refurbish and maintain all the play areas within the Comhairle's ownership before considering any new play areas be re-affirmed.

PIR Harris Sports and Leisure Complex

AL02.13

16*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Project Initiation Report in respect of the Harris Sports and Leisure Complex. Details of the project were set out in the Report together with an outline of the project costs and anticipated income and expenditure. It was noted that support was being sought by the Comhairle of £420,000 approximately 10% of the cost of the project. In addition, the cost of hiring the facilities for use by the school pupils was estimated in £127,000 per year.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) support be given to the Harris Sports and Leisure Committee in developing the Sports and Leisure Complex by the inclusion of provision in the Capital Expenditure Programme for 1998/99 towards the costs of the project; and

(2) consideration be given to hiring the facilities for school pupils at a cost of £127,000 per year.

PIR Valtos Outdoor Centre

AL02.02

AL07.05

17

With reference to Item 98 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 September 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Project Initiation Report setting out proposals for the refurbishment of the Outdoor Centre at Valtos, Uig. Details of the proposals were outlined in the Report, together with the estimated cost of the works.

It was agreed to defer consideration of the Report pending consideration of the provision of a new building on the same site and investigation of the level of fee to be charged for the Project.

LIBRARY

Daliburgh Library Opening Hours

AL08.02

18*

The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding amendments to the opening hours of Daliburgh Community Library. It was stated that there was no demand for Thursday evening library opening at Daliburgh and following consultation with the Head Teacher at the school and the Local Member, the opening hours on Saturday had been extended with effect from January 1998 to improve the opportunity of access to library services for the local community. It was indicated that the revised opening hours were as follows:

Friday - 10.30 a.m. - 1.45 p.m.

Saturday - 1.30 p.m. - 3.30 p.m.

It was agreed to note the Report.

MUSEUM

Calbost Collection - Remedial Conservation

AL09.01.04

19*

With reference to Item 115 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to establish a post of Museum Conservation Officer to address the urgent remedial conservation needs of the Calbost Collection. The background to the matter was set out in the Report, together with a summary of the condition of the Calbost Collection and the conservation requirement. It was stated that, in addition to the immediate and urgent needs of the Calbost Collection, a post of Conservation Officer was an important one for the museum services with a key long term role in the museum's core function. The financial implications of establishing the post were summarised in the Report. It was noted that the salary costs of the conservation of the post, together with elements of equipment and material, were eligible for grand aid from the Scottish Museum Council of up to 50% of expenditure. It was stated that an in-principal grant application had been prepared and submitted to meet the Museum Council's deadline of 31 January was basis for funding in the 1998/99 financial year.

It was agreed to recommend approval in principal to the establishment of a post of Museum Conservation Officer, subject to further details consideration in light of the response from the Scottish Museum Council.

CONFERENCES AND COURSES

Celtic Connections: Glasgow 31 January 1998

AL05.01

20

The Chairman referred to the invitation from Feisean nan Gaidhael for the Comhairle to be represented at a reception and to attend a concert, Ceol nan Feis, which was due to be held at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on 31 January 1998 as part of Celtic Connections. He referred further to the cancellation of the concert and read out a statement expressing his anger and outrage at the organisors' decision.

It was agreed that representation be made to the organisers of Celtic Connection expressing anger at the decision to cancel Ceol nan Feis.

The Chairman ruled in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter or urgency in order to allow the Comhairle to be represented at the conference.

Ealan 21

AL05.01

21*

Details of Ealan 21 which was due to be held in Inverness between 4 and 6 March 1998 were submitted.

It was agreed to recommend that the Vice-Chairman of the Committee attend the Ealan 21.

PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Monitoring Progress with Decisions

PR33.01.12

22

The Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report setting out progress with the implementation of decision based on the Arts and Leisure Committee recommendation.

It was agreed to note the Report.

Reports Outstanding: Progress Report

PR33.01.12

23

With reference to Item 120 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report detailing Reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Committee since May 1994.

It was agreed to note the Report.

____

APPENDIX

PLAY AREAS

The following Play Areas are located on the land in the ownership of the Western Isles Council and area maintained as part of the Grounds Maintenance contract 1997-2001. The sites are listed in recommended priority order for improvement.

Sites listed without a priority are either recently improved or scheduled for improvement in 1997/98.

PRIORITY

DESCRIPTION

SITE REF

1

Vatisker Park

L/71

2

MacQueen Street, Tarbert

H/7

3

Northbay Play Area

B13

4

Edgemoor Square

L/34

5

Balivanich School

U/5

6

Macsween Drive, Aird

L/56

7

Tolmie Terrace

SY/62

8

Heatherhill, Barvas

L/46

9

Casimir Place, Daliburgh

U/11

10

Stile Park

SY/59

11

Laxdale Housing (Murdoch Place)

SY/23

12

New Sheilings, Bennadrove

13

Seaview, Knock

L/63

14

Balallan

L/8

15

Ashdaill Cottages

U/1

16

Scott Road, Tarbert

H/14

17

Pentland Drive, Carloway

L/62

18

Macdonald Gardens, Leurbost

L/55

19

Seaforth Road/Seaview Terrace

SY/55

20

Castlebay Playpark

B/12

21

Parkend

SY/41

22

Ford Terrace, Creagorry

U/27

23

Plasterfield

SY/46

24

Carabhat, Carinish

U/9

25

Seilebost School

H/15

26

Kersavagh, Lochmaddy

U/34

27

Columbia Place, Stornoway

SY13

28

Allt na Broighe

SY/2

29

Cuidhe na Gamhna

U/21

30

Dun Eisdean

SY/15

Bayhead Play Area

SY/8

Manor Farm Housing (3 sites)

SY/33

PRESENT	Mr Alasdair G Macrae (Chairman)
	Mrs Katie M Mackenzie (Vice-Chairman)	Mr Roderick Macdonald
	Mr Roderick Morrison	Mr Norman A Macdonald
	Mr Angus M Graham	Mr Alasdair Nicholson
	Mr Donald Murray	Mr George Lonie
	Mr Callum I Macmillan	Mr Kenneth Mackay
	Mrs Mary Bremner

		MINUTES
Arts and Leisure C02.13	1	The Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997 was approved.
		FINANCE
1997/98 Capital Monitoring: Non HRA PR110.01.23	2	With reference to Item 10 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 December 1997 the Director of Finance submitted a Report concerning the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 1 April - 31 December 1997 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the projected out-turn expenditure for the financial year 1997/98.
		It was agreed to note the Report for the Committee's interest.
		The Chairman ruled in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in Standing Order 8(a) that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency to enable the Comhairle to determine the Capital Expenditure Programme for the next three years and to allow officers to undertake the necessary preparatory work.
Capital Programme 1998/99 - 2000/01 PR110.01.25	3*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Capital Programme for the three years 1998/99 to 2000/01. The Report outlined the outcome of the Capital Expenditure Seminar. A proposed Capital Programme was appended to the Report, together with a statement showing the balance of Capital Resources available after taking account of known commitments for the three year period.
		It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest: (1) approval of the draft Capital Programme 1998/99 as detailed in Appendix A to the Report by the Director of Finance; (2) approval of the Capital Programme for 1999/2000 and 2000/01 based on the draft Programme shown in Appendix A; and (3) that the Chief Executive continue to negotiate with Western Isles Enterprise regarding matching funding for Capital Project.
AEF Announcement, Policy Framework and Budget Strategy 1998/99 PR110.03.24	4*	With reference to item 53 of the Minute of Meeting of 29 September 1997, the Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the final Aggregate External Finance (AEF) announcement and outlining a revised budget strategy for 1998/99. Details of the AEF Settlement were appended to the Report, together with changes in grant aided expenditure. Comments on the effect of the AEF settlement, the 1997/98 budgetary performance and movements in reserves, balances and the contingency fund were outlined in the Report. Policy issues arising which required to be addressed by the Council in the budgetary process were detailed in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend, for the Committee's interest, that:
		1. should the total underspend on transportation exceed the 2% carry forward as a result of underspending on Highways Winter Maintenance in 1997/98 then the carry forward to 1998/99 would be increased by the amount of underspend on Highways Winter Maintenance;
		2. any underspending on WISBAS and WIFAS Schemes in 1997/98 should be permitted to be carried forward to 1998/99;
		3. In setting the cash planning limits:
		(a) the assumed level of pay increases in the Budget be 2.5%;
		(b) the increased provision for employers' pension contributions be 1.4% of the current wages bill;
		(c) the presumed level of inflation be 1.25%;
		(d) the income for fees and charges set by the Comhairle be assumed to generate 5% more income;
		(e) all new borrowing, whether it be short or long term, be assumed to be achieved at average rates of 7.5%;
		(f) for the purposes of modelling the behaviour of DLO/DSO Employee Costs, they be vired from the running costs, to the employee costs column of the model in the relevant services thereby increasing their provision for inflation from 1.25% to 4.22%;
		(g) the additional resources for Education be set at £527,000 and the Director of Education and Leisure Services be requested to produce a Report detailing how extra non-recurring expenditure of £649,000 be spent on the priorities determined by the Government;
		(h) an additional £55,000 be included to match growth in the Police Specific Grant;
		(i) as a planning provision, £25,000 be included for the anticipated additional Fire Board requisition;
		(j) no further resources be made to Social Work as a result of on-going Care in the Community transfer;
		(k) additional resources of £20,500 be included as growth in the Environmental Service Budget to implement the recommendations of the Pennington report and to improve present inspection coverage;
		(l) £63,000 of growth be provided to the Social Work Committee to fund the revenue costs of a new Residential Facility for Adults with Learning Disabilities;
		(m) £2500 growth be included in the Housing General Fund Cash Planning Limit to protect the Grant to Women's Aid;
		(n) £2800 growth be included in the Parks and Open Spaces Cash Planning Limit for the provision of Christmas trees;
		(o) the anticipated receipt for interest on revenue balances be increased from £400,000 to £800,000;
		(p) growth of £7500 be included in the Housing General Fund Cash Planning Limit for Inter-fund Movements associated with staffing reductions; and
		(q) £16,500 be included as growth towards additional SEPA licensing costs for refuse tips; and
		4. the Budgetary Process outlined in the Report be adopted.
Draft Annual Budget Book 1998/99 PR110.03.24	5*	The Director of Finance submitted the draft Budget Book for the Financial Year 1998/99 detailing the income and revenue expenditure budgeted for each of the Council's services in the financial year 1 April 1998 to 31 March 1999. It was agreed to recommend approval of the draft Budget Book 1998/99, for the Committee's interest, subject to such further amendments as would be approved by the Council.
Growth and Savings Proposals for 1998/99 Budget: Revised PR110.03.24	6*	The Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing revised growth and savings proposals for consideration as part of the 1998/99 budgetary process. It was agreed to defer consideration of this Report until after a Special Meeting of the Finance Sub-Committee.
		BUILDINGS
Capital Works Programme and Progress AL02.02.01	7	With reference to Item 113 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Programme and Progress Report in relation to the Arts and Leisure Capital Programme. It was agreed to note the Report.
Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre Games Deck AL02.01.01	8*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to improve the use of the games deck area of the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre. It was stated that table tennis equipment had been lost due to the recent fire at the Sports Centre and this had given an opportunity to reconsider a provision of games facilities at the Centre. It was suggested that a pool table and football table would be more popular and provide a considerable increase in revenue income. It was proposed that a pool table be purchased at an estimated cost of £900 and a football table rented at a cost of £15 per month. It was estimated that net income from the pool table and football table would be approximately £3,700 in the first year, after taking account of expenses and it was anticipated that the use of the facilities would improve income to the cafeteria.
		It was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to replace the table tennis equipment at the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre with a football table and a pool table, these facilities to be financed from the additional income generated.
		Arising out of consideration of this matter, concern was expressed over the position by the Scottish Football Association to award the Television Broadcasting rights of the Scotland World Cup football games to Channel 5. The view was expressed that this course of action would deny access to sport for a large number of people in Scotland, and particularly in the Highlands and Islands.
		It was agreed that the Chairman make representations to Mr Sam Galbraith, the Scottish Office Minister for Sport, asking him to set up an enquiry into the effect of his decision on access to sport and to Mr Jim Farry, Chief Executive, Scottish Football Association, asking him to ensure that the Association did everything possible to promote access to sport throughout Scotland.
		In response to a question regarding the closure of the all-weather sports facilities for maintenance on Friday evenings, the Director of Education and Leisure Services reported that Monday evenings to Thursday evenings were those with the highest demand for the facility and that least use was made of the facility on Friday evenings. He stated that it was necessary to close the facility for maintenance and, in light of pattern of use, Friday evenings had been chosen.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education and Leisure Services seek an alternative time for the maintenance of the all-weather sports facility, especially with the longer day light hours, and introduce for a pilot period and under -12's night on Friday evenings with effect from March 1998.
		Following further discussion it was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services submit a Report regarding the possible introduction of video games to the Nicolson - Lewis Sports Centre.
Lews Castle: Formation of Company Limited by Guarantee E02.20.08	9*	With reference to Item 37(1) of the Minute of Meeting of the Council of 21 October 1997, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to establish a "Trust" to consider and safeguard the future maintenance and development of the Lews Castle Building. It was suggested that a company limited by guarantee be formed to take up the role it envisaged for the trust. Information regarding companies limited by guarantee was set out in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Director of Administration and Legal Services be authorised to set up a Company limited by guarantee having the following objects: (a) the provision of social, cultural, education and recreational activities in na h-Eileanan an Iar;
		(b) the management of any properties which are now or may hereafter be within the Comhairle's ownership to ensure that such activities are adequately and properly promoted;
		(c) the promotion of ancillary activities (e.g. office accommodation) to enable the principal activities to be carried out and assist in the carrying out of such activities; and (d) to do everything necessary to implement the above aims;
		(2) it be delegated to the Director of Administration and Legal Services, in consultation with the Director of Education and Leisure Services and the Director of Finance, to finalise the terms and conditions of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company;
		(3) the Comhairle initially be the sole member of the Company and the first Directors of the Company be the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Arts and Leisure Committee; and (4) Members be invited to submit suggestions for a name for the company.
Community Events: Provision of Marquee AL04.08	10	With reference to Item 116 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to purpose a demountable marquee for use at major community events and Council functions. Details of the proposals were set out in the Report, together with estimated costs for different sizes of marquee.
		It was agreed to defer consideration of the matter pending the provision of additional information regarding the potential demand for the marquee and the costs for operation and storage.
		APPLICATIONS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Feis Nan Coisir 1998 AL11.02	11*	With reference to Item 40 of the Minute of Meeting of 22 April 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding an application from Feis Nan Coisir for financial assistance in respect of the 1998 Feis. It was stated that Feis nan Coisir 1997 had been awarded a guarantee against loss of up to £1,800 towards its staging costs. It was noted that the Feis Organisation had indicated that, as its receipts and payments for 1997 were satisfactory, the guarantee would not be taken up. It was indicated that a request for support for Feis na Coisir 1998, which would be held between 25 - 28 March 1998 had been received and it was proposed that the guarantee against loss for 1997 be allocated to the 1998 Feis.
		It was agreed that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to transfer the guarantee against loss of up to £1,800 allocated to Feis Nan Coisir 1997 for use in connection with Feis Nan Coisir 1998.
Highland Festival Request for Grant Aid AL05.03	12*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding an application from the Highland Festival for a grant of £1,900 towards their project "The Big Picture"/"An Dealbh Mor". Details of the funding request were appended to the Report. It was stated that the application had been lodged at a very late date and there was insufficient funds in the budget to grant the request.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the grant request from Highland Festival be not approved; and (2) the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to advise the Highland Festival organisers that applications for grant aid must be lodged timeously.

		THE ARTS
Arts and Culture Policy Update AL05.01	13*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to update the Comhairle's policy on the arts, development and culture. It was stated that the Policy Statement for Arts and Culture in the Western Isles was under review and the revised policy would provide a framework within which to develop a new regional arts plan. Proposals were set out for amendments to the definition and scope of the policy, a general policy for the arts, financial policies for the arts, staffing, promotional aspects and review procedure. The Comhairle's role in relation to outside agencies was outlined in the Report.
		It was agreed that Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to amend the Policy Statement for the arts and culture in the Western Isles on the basis detailed in the Report, and to implement the revised Policy.
		OUTDOOR RECREATION
Play Areas: Non-Council Properties - Financial Support Policy AL02.12	14*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding a proposed policy in respect of the financial support to be offered to groups undertaking improvements to Non-Council Play Areas. It was stated that the Comhairle's existing policy was that Groups undertaking improvements to non-Council play areas were not eligible for support from the Comhairle's Play Area Budgets. It was noted that this Policy made it difficult for the Groups to access funding from other Agencies. It was suggested that, in order to overcome such difficulties, the Groups concerned be eligible for financial support for the equipment aspects of Projects and be funded from the Community Education Budget at the normal rate of 30% of eligible expenditure.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to implement a revised policy to finance the equipment aspects of non-Council owned Play Areas Development Projects from the Community Education Budget at the normal rate of 30% of eligible expenditure.
Play Areas Update AL02.02	15*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report outlining the current position with regard to play areas throughout the Western Isles. All the play areas currently owned by the Comhairle were identified in the Report. It was stated that the play areas had been assessed and a priority list for refurbishment had been drawn up based on the following criteria: (1) possible Health and Safety issue; (2) condition of equipment; (3) number of children the play area usefully served; and (4) anticipated cost of restoring to BS5696 standard, or the European equivalent.
		The priority list for renovation suggested by the Play Area Working Group was appended to the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend: (1) approval of the priority list of play areas as detailed in the Appendix to the Minute; and (2) the policy of continuing to refurbish and maintain all the play areas within the Comhairle's ownership before considering any new play areas be re-affirmed.
PIR Harris Sports and Leisure Complex AL02.13	16*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Project Initiation Report in respect of the Harris Sports and Leisure Complex. Details of the project were set out in the Report together with an outline of the project costs and anticipated income and expenditure. It was noted that support was being sought by the Comhairle of £420,000 approximately 10% of the cost of the project. In addition, the cost of hiring the facilities for use by the school pupils was estimated in £127,000 per year.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) support be given to the Harris Sports and Leisure Committee in developing the Sports and Leisure Complex by the inclusion of provision in the Capital Expenditure Programme for 1998/99 towards the costs of the project; and (2) consideration be given to hiring the facilities for school pupils at a cost of £127,000 per year.
PIR Valtos Outdoor Centre AL02.02 AL07.05	17	With reference to Item 98 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 September 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Project Initiation Report setting out proposals for the refurbishment of the Outdoor Centre at Valtos, Uig. Details of the proposals were outlined in the Report, together with the estimated cost of the works.
		It was agreed to defer consideration of the Report pending consideration of the provision of a new building on the same site and investigation of the level of fee to be charged for the Project.
		LIBRARY
Daliburgh Library Opening Hours AL08.02	18*	The Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding amendments to the opening hours of Daliburgh Community Library. It was stated that there was no demand for Thursday evening library opening at Daliburgh and following consultation with the Head Teacher at the school and the Local Member, the opening hours on Saturday had been extended with effect from January 1998 to improve the opportunity of access to library services for the local community. It was indicated that the revised opening hours were as follows: Friday - 10.30 a.m. - 1.45 p.m. Saturday - 1.30 p.m. - 3.30 p.m.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
		MUSEUM
Calbost Collection - Remedial Conservation AL09.01.04	19*	With reference to Item 115 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a Report regarding proposals to establish a post of Museum Conservation Officer to address the urgent remedial conservation needs of the Calbost Collection. The background to the matter was set out in the Report, together with a summary of the condition of the Calbost Collection and the conservation requirement. It was stated that, in addition to the immediate and urgent needs of the Calbost Collection, a post of Conservation Officer was an important one for the museum services with a key long term role in the museum's core function. The financial implications of establishing the post were summarised in the Report. It was noted that the salary costs of the conservation of the post, together with elements of equipment and material, were eligible for grand aid from the Scottish Museum Council of up to 50% of expenditure. It was stated that an in-principal grant application had been prepared and submitted to meet the Museum Council's deadline of 31 January was basis for funding in the 1998/99 financial year.
		It was agreed to recommend approval in principal to the establishment of a post of Museum Conservation Officer, subject to further details consideration in light of the response from the Scottish Museum Council.
		CONFERENCES AND COURSES
Celtic Connections: Glasgow 31 January 1998 AL05.01	20	The Chairman referred to the invitation from Feisean nan Gaidhael for the Comhairle to be represented at a reception and to attend a concert, Ceol nan Feis, which was due to be held at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on 31 January 1998 as part of Celtic Connections. He referred further to the cancellation of the concert and read out a statement expressing his anger and outrage at the organisors' decision.
		It was agreed that representation be made to the organisers of Celtic Connection expressing anger at the decision to cancel Ceol nan Feis.
		The Chairman ruled in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter or urgency in order to allow the Comhairle to be represented at the conference.
Ealan 21 AL05.01	21*	Details of Ealan 21 which was due to be held in Inverness between 4 and 6 March 1998 were submitted. It was agreed to recommend that the Vice-Chairman of the Committee attend the Ealan 21.
		PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Monitoring Progress with Decisions PR33.01.12	22	The Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report setting out progress with the implementation of decision based on the Arts and Leisure Committee recommendation. It was agreed to note the Report.
Reports Outstanding: Progress Report PR33.01.12	23	With reference to Item 120 of the Minute of Meeting of 18 November 1997, the Director of Administration and Legal Services submitted a Report detailing Reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Committee since May 1994. It was agreed to note the Report.
____

PRIORITY	DESCRIPTION	SITE REF
1	Vatisker Park	L/71
2	MacQueen Street, Tarbert	H/7
3	Northbay Play Area	B13
4	Edgemoor Square	L/34
5	Balivanich School	U/5
6	Macsween Drive, Aird	L/56
7	Tolmie Terrace	SY/62
8	Heatherhill, Barvas	L/46
9	Casimir Place, Daliburgh	U/11
10	Stile Park	SY/59
11	Laxdale Housing (Murdoch Place)	SY/23
12	New Sheilings, Bennadrove
13	Seaview, Knock	L/63
14	Balallan	L/8
15	Ashdaill Cottages	U/1
16	Scott Road, Tarbert	H/14
17	Pentland Drive, Carloway	L/62
18	Macdonald Gardens, Leurbost	L/55
19	Seaforth Road/Seaview Terrace	SY/55
20	Castlebay Playpark	B/12
21	Parkend	SY/41
22	Ford Terrace, Creagorry	U/27
23	Plasterfield	SY/46
24	Carabhat, Carinish	U/9
25	Seilebost School	H/15
26	Kersavagh, Lochmaddy	U/34
27	Columbia Place, Stornoway	SY13
28	Allt na Broighe	SY/2
29	Cuidhe na Gamhna	U/21
30	Dun Eisdean	SY/15
	Bayhead Play Area	SY/8
	Manor Farm Housing (3 sites)	SY/33