2 October 2002

COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday 2 October 2002 at 2.00pm

PRESENT

Mr Donald Maclean (Chairman)

Mr Archie Campbell (Vice Chairman)

Mr Roderick Morrison

Mr Donald M Mackay

Mr Alexander A MacDonald

Mr Donald Macdonald

Mr Roderick J Murray

Mr Martin C Taylor

Mr Norman L Macdonald

Mrs Mary Bremner

Mr Donald J Macsween

Mr Ronald J Mackinnon

Mr Finlay Morrison

Mr Donald Manford

APOLOGIES

Mr Malcolm J Macleod

MINUTES

Minute of Meeting of 28 August 2002

DS09.01

1

The Minute of Meeting of 28 August 2002 was approved.

CONSERVATION

Western Isles Local Biodiversity Action Plan

DS61.01

2

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing progress with the Western Isles Local Biodiversity Action Plan. The Biodiversity Action Plan sought to ensure that nationally and locally important species and habitats were conserved and enhanced through focussed local action. The Comhairle's Biodiversity Officer made a presentation in respect of the Action Plan and Members were afforded the opportunity of asking questions.

It was agreed to endorse the progress of the Western Isles Biodiversity Plan and to publicise its progress.

Arising from consideration of this item it was agreed to invite a representative from the Life Project to address the next meeting.

St Kilda Management Plan

DS61.01

3

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report outlining the draft Management Plan for St Kilda which had been produced by the National Trust for Scotland. The Report detailed the guiding principals of the draft Management Plan and outlined the Comhairle's draft response.

It was agreed that the conclusions contained in Paragraphs 10.1 to 10.4 form the basis of the Comhairle's response to the National Trust for Scotland, specifically that:

(1) the Comhairle endorses the approach taken by the NTS;

(2) the Comhairle becomes a member of the Strategic Management Group; and

(3) the plan or future actions arising from the plan do not prohibit creel fishing, marine traffic in the DWP, the activities of the MOD, possible future alternative energy production in the Western Isles or possible future hydrocarbon exploration in the 70km radius zone around St Kilda.

INFORMATION SERVICES AND RETURNS

2001 Census of Population

PR53.01.07

4

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report updating Members on the 2001 Census of Population. The Report detailed the population trends for the Western Isles and indicated that further population data would be published on 30 September 2002.

It was agreed that:

(1) a further Report be presented to the next Meeting of Policy and Finance Committee based on an analysis of the initial 2001 Census of Population results; and

(2) the Chairman, Convener and Chief Executive would make the necessary arrangements to hold a Meeting/Seminar to discuss the implications of the 2001 Census of Population and address the issues arising.

CROFTING

Cattle Health Scheme: Uist and Barra Scottish Crofters Foundation

DS40.02

5

With reference to item 171 of the Minute of Meeting of 21 November 2001 the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing proposals to provide financial assistance to Uist cattle breeders over a three year period through the Cattle Health Scheme. It was anticipated that the Uist and Barra Cattle Health Scheme would result in an increase in the number of cattle producers.

It was agreed that financial assistance to the Uist Cattle Breeders be made up to a maximum of £12,877 in 2002/03 , £22,653 in 2003/04, £20,505 in 2004/05 and £12,877 in 2005/06 (subject to the proof of expenditure) and that provision is made through the budgetary process.

Common Agricultural Policy - Mid Term Review

DS40.02

6

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the European Commissions proposals for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. The key elements of the proposed reforms were detailed and the Report recommended that a Member/Officer Working Group be established to discuss the proposals as they develop.

It was agreed that:

(1) the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to make representation to SEERAD, DEFRA and the EC on the Mid-Term Review of the CAP, on the basis of the comments set out in paragraphs 6.1 - 6.6 of the Report and taking account of the views of the Committee; and

(2) a Member/Officer Working Group comprising the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Mr Roderick J Murray (with officer membership to be decided by the Chief Executive) be established to feed into the initial consultation stage and discuss the proposals for the Reform of the Common Agricultural Policy as they develop.

A Forward Strategy of Scottish Agriculture

DS40.02

7

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing progress on Action 35 "A Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture", which had been launched by the Scottish Executive in June 2001. A Steering Group had been set up to progress Action 35 and the Report outlined the progress to date and the next steps in the process. The Report indicated that a further financial contribution would be required from the Comhairle in order to complete the programme of work.

It was agreed that:

(1) the Comhairle would contribute an additional £5k to the costs of completion of Action 35 - A Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture from the Sustainable Communities 2002/03 revenue budget for Sectoral and Area Development; and

(2) a Report on Action 35 would be submitted to the next meeting of Policy and Finance Committee in view of the need to have the matter considered by the Comhairle before the next scheduled meeting of Sustainable Development Committee.

It was agreed that the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Item 8 below, on the grounds that exempt information as defined in paragraph 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 would be disclosed, namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle.

Western Isles Slaughterhouses

DS40.42

8

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the latest situation in respect of Western Isles Slaughterhouses. The Comhairle was operating Stornoway Abattoir on a break-even basis until December 2002 in order to offer a kill and return service for crofters and butchers. The Report further detailed the current position in respect of slaughterhouse facilities in Harris, Lochmaddy and Barra.

It was agreed that;

(1) the Comhairle note the progress being made regarding the continuation of slaughtering facilities throughout the Western Isles;

(2) the Comhairle does not enter into an agreement with the owner/operator of Lochmaddy Abattoir as detailed in his letter of 13 September 2002;

(3) investigations be undertaken into arrangements for the transport of animals for slaughter from Uist to licensed abattoir facilities; and

(4) the local Economic Forum be asked to consider the provision of slaughtering facilities in the Uists with a view to meeting with the local crofting community.

MEMBERSHIP OF OUTSIDE BODIES

Membership of the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers

AL09.01.14

9

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report seeking approval for the Comhairle to join the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers. The Report indicated that ALGAO set standards, both detailed and general, for the provision of archaeological services to Local Government.

It was agreed that the Comhairle would apply for membership of the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers.

Arising from consideration of this item it was agreed that Dr Mary Macleod would make a presentation to a future meeting of the Committee in respect of the Comhairle's Archaeological Service.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Review of Lottery Funding: A Consultation Paper on Lottery Distribution Policy

AL03.05

10

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the Government Consultation Paper reviewing lottery funding. The key consultation themes were detailed and the Report outlined a draft response from the Comhairle.

It was agreed that Appendix 1 of the Report would form the basis of the Comhairle's response to the Government's Consultation on Lottery Distribution.

TOURISM

Dun Eistean Archaeological Project

DS40.08

11

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report seeking permission for the Western Isles Archaeologist to take a lead role in fundraising for and the management of the proposed Heritage Project on and around Dun Eistean, Ness.

It was agreed that permission be given for;

(1) the Comhairle's Archaeologist for take a lead role in the management of the archaeological aspects of the proposed project; and

(2) any funds to be administered through the Western Isles Archaeologist's budget.

STRUCTURE PLANS

Review of Strategic Planning

DS24.01

12

With reference to item 11 of the Minute of Meeting of 11 September 2001 the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning the Scottish Executive's review of strategic planning. The Report detailed the key elements of the review and outlined the implications for the Western Isles. The Report proposed that the Comhairle replace the current five local plan areas with a single local land use document for the whole of the Western Isles and initial discussions with the Scottish Executive had indicated that this project would be supported.

It was agreed to;

(1) note the outcome of the Scottish Executive's review of strategic planning;

(2) approve the new approach to development planning for Western Isles, as set out in paragraph 7.1 to 7.3 of the Report; and

(3) rescind the recommendations detailed in paragraph 6.3 of the Report.

PROVISION OF SITES AND BUILDINGS

It was agreed that the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Item 13 below, on the grounds that exempt information as defined in paragraph 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 would be disclosed, namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle.

Repeater Station at Uachdar, Benbecula

DS41

13

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning a request to purchase the Repeater Station at Uachdar, Benbecula. The sale had been agreed at market value but had not been completed due to a request for payment to be spread over five years.

It was agreed to offer Mr Ewan MacLean a monthly purchase over a period of five years, at the current market valuation plus an interest rate of 8.1% pa, for the purchase of the Repeater Station at Uachdar subject to the terms and conditions being agreed by the Director of Corporate Services.

FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS

Programme and Progress: Fishery Piers

T07.02

14

The Director of Technical Services submitted a Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers Schemes.

It was agreed to note the Report.

PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Reports Outstanding: Progress

PR33.01.12

15

The Chief Executive submitted a Report detailing the Reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Committee.

It was agreed to note the Report.

PRESENT	Mr Donald Maclean (Chairman)
	Mr Archie Campbell (Vice Chairman)
	Mr Roderick Morrison	Mr Donald M Mackay
	Mr Alexander A MacDonald	Mr Donald Macdonald
	Mr Roderick J Murray	Mr Martin C Taylor
	Mr Norman L Macdonald	Mrs Mary Bremner
	Mr Donald J Macsween	Mr Ronald J Mackinnon
	Mr Finlay Morrison	Mr Donald Manford

APOLOGIES	Mr Malcolm J Macleod

		MINUTES
Minute of Meeting of 28 August 2002 DS09.01	1	The Minute of Meeting of 28 August 2002 was approved.
		CONSERVATION
Western Isles Local Biodiversity Action Plan DS61.01	2	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing progress with the Western Isles Local Biodiversity Action Plan. The Biodiversity Action Plan sought to ensure that nationally and locally important species and habitats were conserved and enhanced through focussed local action. The Comhairle's Biodiversity Officer made a presentation in respect of the Action Plan and Members were afforded the opportunity of asking questions. It was agreed to endorse the progress of the Western Isles Biodiversity Plan and to publicise its progress. Arising from consideration of this item it was agreed to invite a representative from the Life Project to address the next meeting.
St Kilda Management Plan DS61.01	3	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report outlining the draft Management Plan for St Kilda which had been produced by the National Trust for Scotland. The Report detailed the guiding principals of the draft Management Plan and outlined the Comhairle's draft response. It was agreed that the conclusions contained in Paragraphs 10.1 to 10.4 form the basis of the Comhairle's response to the National Trust for Scotland, specifically that: (1) the Comhairle endorses the approach taken by the NTS; (2) the Comhairle becomes a member of the Strategic Management Group; and
		(3) the plan or future actions arising from the plan do not prohibit creel fishing, marine traffic in the DWP, the activities of the MOD, possible future alternative energy production in the Western Isles or possible future hydrocarbon exploration in the 70km radius zone around St Kilda.
		INFORMATION SERVICES AND RETURNS
2001 Census of Population PR53.01.07	4	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report updating Members on the 2001 Census of Population. The Report detailed the population trends for the Western Isles and indicated that further population data would be published on 30 September 2002. It was agreed that: (1) a further Report be presented to the next Meeting of Policy and Finance Committee based on an analysis of the initial 2001 Census of Population results; and (2) the Chairman, Convener and Chief Executive would make the necessary arrangements to hold a Meeting/Seminar to discuss the implications of the 2001 Census of Population and address the issues arising.
		CROFTING
Cattle Health Scheme: Uist and Barra Scottish Crofters Foundation DS40.02	5	With reference to item 171 of the Minute of Meeting of 21 November 2001 the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing proposals to provide financial assistance to Uist cattle breeders over a three year period through the Cattle Health Scheme. It was anticipated that the Uist and Barra Cattle Health Scheme would result in an increase in the number of cattle producers. It was agreed that financial assistance to the Uist Cattle Breeders be made up to a maximum of £12,877 in 2002/03 , £22,653 in 2003/04, £20,505 in 2004/05 and £12,877 in 2005/06 (subject to the proof of expenditure) and that provision is made through the budgetary process.
Common Agricultural Policy - Mid Term Review DS40.02	6	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the European Commissions proposals for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. The key elements of the proposed reforms were detailed and the Report recommended that a Member/Officer Working Group be established to discuss the proposals as they develop. It was agreed that: (1) the Director for Sustainable Communities be authorised to make representation to SEERAD, DEFRA and the EC on the Mid-Term Review of the CAP, on the basis of the comments set out in paragraphs 6.1 - 6.6 of the Report and taking account of the views of the Committee; and (2) a Member/Officer Working Group comprising the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Mr Roderick J Murray (with officer membership to be decided by the Chief Executive) be established to feed into the initial consultation stage and discuss the proposals for the Reform of the Common Agricultural Policy as they develop.
A Forward Strategy of Scottish Agriculture DS40.02	7	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing progress on Action 35 "A Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture", which had been launched by the Scottish Executive in June 2001. A Steering Group had been set up to progress Action 35 and the Report outlined the progress to date and the next steps in the process. The Report indicated that a further financial contribution would be required from the Comhairle in order to complete the programme of work. It was agreed that: (1) the Comhairle would contribute an additional £5k to the costs of completion of Action 35 - A Forward Strategy for Scottish Agriculture from the Sustainable Communities 2002/03 revenue budget for Sectoral and Area Development; and (2) a Report on Action 35 would be submitted to the next meeting of Policy and Finance Committee in view of the need to have the matter considered by the Comhairle before the next scheduled meeting of Sustainable Development Committee.
		It was agreed that the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Item 8 below, on the grounds that exempt information as defined in paragraph 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 would be disclosed, namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle.
Western Isles Slaughterhouses DS40.42	8	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the latest situation in respect of Western Isles Slaughterhouses. The Comhairle was operating Stornoway Abattoir on a break-even basis until December 2002 in order to offer a kill and return service for crofters and butchers. The Report further detailed the current position in respect of slaughterhouse facilities in Harris, Lochmaddy and Barra. It was agreed that; (1) the Comhairle note the progress being made regarding the continuation of slaughtering facilities throughout the Western Isles; (2) the Comhairle does not enter into an agreement with the owner/operator of Lochmaddy Abattoir as detailed in his letter of 13 September 2002; (3) investigations be undertaken into arrangements for the transport of animals for slaughter from Uist to licensed abattoir facilities; and (4) the local Economic Forum be asked to consider the provision of slaughtering facilities in the Uists with a view to meeting with the local crofting community.
		MEMBERSHIP OF OUTSIDE BODIES
Membership of the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers AL09.01.14	9	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report seeking approval for the Comhairle to join the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers. The Report indicated that ALGAO set standards, both detailed and general, for the provision of archaeological services to Local Government. It was agreed that the Comhairle would apply for membership of the Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers. Arising from consideration of this item it was agreed that Dr Mary Macleod would make a presentation to a future meeting of the Committee in respect of the Comhairle's Archaeological Service.
		FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Review of Lottery Funding: A Consultation Paper on Lottery Distribution Policy AL03.05	10	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report detailing the Government Consultation Paper reviewing lottery funding. The key consultation themes were detailed and the Report outlined a draft response from the Comhairle. It was agreed that Appendix 1 of the Report would form the basis of the Comhairle's response to the Government's Consultation on Lottery Distribution.
		TOURISM
Dun Eistean Archaeological Project DS40.08	11	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report seeking permission for the Western Isles Archaeologist to take a lead role in fundraising for and the management of the proposed Heritage Project on and around Dun Eistean, Ness. It was agreed that permission be given for; (1) the Comhairle's Archaeologist for take a lead role in the management of the archaeological aspects of the proposed project; and (2) any funds to be administered through the Western Isles Archaeologist's budget.
		STRUCTURE PLANS
Review of Strategic Planning DS24.01	12	With reference to item 11 of the Minute of Meeting of 11 September 2001 the Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning the Scottish Executive's review of strategic planning. The Report detailed the key elements of the review and outlined the implications for the Western Isles. The Report proposed that the Comhairle replace the current five local plan areas with a single local land use document for the whole of the Western Isles and initial discussions with the Scottish Executive had indicated that this project would be supported. It was agreed to; (1) note the outcome of the Scottish Executive's review of strategic planning; (2) approve the new approach to development planning for Western Isles, as set out in paragraph 7.1 to 7.3 of the Report; and (3) rescind the recommendations detailed in paragraph 6.3 of the Report.
		PROVISION OF SITES AND BUILDINGS
		It was agreed that the public, including the press, be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Item 13 below, on the grounds that exempt information as defined in paragraph 6 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 would be disclosed, namely, information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle.
Repeater Station at Uachdar, Benbecula DS41	13	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning a request to purchase the Repeater Station at Uachdar, Benbecula. The sale had been agreed at market value but had not been completed due to a request for payment to be spread over five years. It was agreed to offer Mr Ewan MacLean a monthly purchase over a period of five years, at the current market valuation plus an interest rate of 8.1% pa, for the purchase of the Repeater Station at Uachdar subject to the terms and conditions being agreed by the Director of Corporate Services.
		FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS
Programme and Progress: Fishery Piers T07.02	14	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers Schemes. It was agreed to note the Report.
		PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Reports Outstanding: Progress PR33.01.12	15	The Chief Executive submitted a Report detailing the Reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Committee. It was agreed to note the Report.