COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday, 31 May 2000 at 2.30pm

PRESENT	Mr Donald Maclean (Chairman)
	Mr Archibald K Campbell (Vice-Chairman)	Mr Donald J Macsween
	Mr Malcolm J Macleod	Mr Donald M Mackay
	Mr Roderick Morrison	Mr Donald Macdonald
	Mr Alexander A MacDonald	Mr James L Macarthur
	Mr Roderick J Murray	Mr Ronald J Mackinnon
	Mr Norman L Macdonald	Mr Donald Manford
APOLOGIES	Mrs Mary Bremner

Development Services DS09.01	73	MINUTES The Minute of Meeting of 17 May 2000, was approved.
Development Services Sub-Committee DS09.02	74	The Minute of Meeting of the Development Services Sub-Committee of 19 April 2000, was noted.
Gaelic Development Sub-Committee PR03.05	75	The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 30 March 2000, was noted.
Berneray Conservation Area Site Visit Sub-Committee DS61.01	76*	The Minute of Meeting of the Berneray Conservation Area Site Visit Sub-Committee was noted, and the recommendation contained therein recommended for approval.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.
Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee DS09.04	77*	The Minute of Meeting of the Fisheries Joint Consultative Committee of 19 May 2000 was noted, and the recommendations contained therein recommended for approval.
Fourth Quarter Revenue Out-Turn PR110.08.13	78	FINANCE With reference to Item 46 of the Minute of Meeting of the Finance Sub-Committee of 29 May 2000, the Director of Finance submitted a Report detailing the Income and Revenue Expenditure incurred for the Comhairle's services including the Housing Revenue Account, for the financial year 1 April 1999 to 31 March 2000 and comparing such Income and Expenditure with the Revenue Estimates of Income and Expenditure for the period. It was indicated that the out-turn figures showed a net overspend of £214,337 as at 31 March 2000, representing 0.29% as compared with the total budget for the year. In respect of the Housing Revenue Account there was a surplus of £122,690 and proposals were set out for allocating the surplus between the Housing Revenue Account Reserves.
		It was agreed to note the Report.
Carry Forward of Revenue Budgets PR110.08.13	79*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report setting out proposals for utilising the permitted carry forward of Revenue budgets from the 1999/2000 financial year. It was intimated in the Report that the £19,494 which was available for use in the 2000/01 financial year, be utilised for the following "one off" projects, namely:
		(1) Harris Tweed Exhibition - £10,000;
		(2) Onshore Pipeline Welder Training - £4,000; and
		(3) Programme Centre, formally known as the "Job Club" - £5,494.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to utilise the "carry forward" in the sum of £19,494, as detailed in the Report, for the following:
		(1) £10,000 for the Harris Tweed Authority, as the Comhairle's contribution towards the Harris Tweed Exhibition to be staged in the Scotland Office, Dover House, London, on 5-6 September 2000;
		(2) £4,000 to Highlands and Islands Enterprise towards the costs of the Onshore Pipeline Welder Training Course; and
		(3) £5,494 to the Programme Centre towards the cost of upgrading facilities, communications and network infrastructure, for those seeking employment opportunities.
Fourth Quarter Capital Out-Turn PR110.08.13	80*	With reference to Item 48 of the Minute of Meeting of the Finance Sub-Committee of 29 May 2000, the Director of Finance submitted a Report: regarding the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 1 April 1999 to 31 March 2000 for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. The Report detailed the approved expenditure and final out-turn expenditure for the financial year 1999/2000 for each Service. It was noted that the actual net expenditure for the year had been £11,703,000, which was £3,136,000 below the initial approved Programme. A summary of the variations was set out in the Report. Appended to the Report was the proposed Capital Programme from 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2003 taking account of the previously approved three year Programme of Capital Expenditure, ongoing commitments and the available resources within the Programme.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned that the: (1) Comhairle note the 1999/2000 final Capital Monitoring Schedule as detailed at Appendix 1 of the Report by the Director of Finance; and (2) Comhairle approve the non-Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme 2000/01 - 2002/03 as detailed at Appendix 2 to the Report by the Director of Finance.
Teleworking and the ICT Advisory Service DS40.01.17	81	ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The Chairman invited Mr Donnie Morrison of the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service to address the Committee. Mr Morrison gave a presentation to the Committee after which Members were afforded an opportunity to ask questions of Mr Morrison. The Chairman thanked Mr Morrison for his presentation.
Western Isles ICT Advisory Services DS40.01.17	82*	With reference to item 39 of the Minute of Meeting of 10 March 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service. It was intimated that the Advisory Service, which was funded on a partnership basis by ERDF, Objective 1, Western Isles Enterprise and the Comhairle, was now in its second phase. Details of the targets and outputs achieved by the Advisory Service during the period 1 April 1998 to 31 March 2000, were given in the Report and particular reference was made to the undernoted key outputs:
		(1) the creation of 108 jobs;
		(2) the retention of 13 jobs;
		(3) the giving of specialist IT advice to some 166 businesses;
		(4) the giving of advise to 20 new start-up companies;
		(5) the attraction of the CISCO Regional Academy to the Western Isles; and
		(6) the publication of a comprehensive IT Sector Guide to the Western Isles.
		The Report referred to the Work-Global.com initiatives sponsored by the Advisory Service, which acted as a teleworking facilitator for outsourcing projects, with the aim of matching the vast potential of those included on a Skills Register, which included resumes of over 600 highly qualified people based in the Western Isles, to a diverse range of specific business needs. The Report highlighted the success achieved by the Advisory Services' "Live Local Work Global" initiative in winning the best telework example for a small or medium sized enterprise in the European Telework Awards. The Report gave details of future developments associated with the Advisory Service, including the construction of four advanced units in Ness, Shawbost, Uig and Lionacleit, which would be capable of supporting IT businesses, together with the creation of an advanced office development at Gleann Seileach Business Park. The Report emphasised the need for broad band telecommunications to be available to teleworkers and rural ICT Centres in the Western Isles, to ensure that all employment opportunities in the IT sector, were maximised.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:
		(1) note the success of the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service Project;
		(2) authorise the Acting Chief Executive to maintain discussions with the Comhairle's partners and Western Isles Enterprise on the future of teleworking and, in particular, the Western Isles ICT Advisory Service beyond December 2001; and
		(3) authorise the Acting Chief Executive to investigate the potential of submitting an application under the Highlands and Islands Special Programme (HISP) for the provision of broad band telecommunications in rural areas throughout the Western Isles, to optimise the benefits of ICT, with a view to allowing equality of access and improved economic performance.
		It was further agreed to recommend that the Comhairle should support the principle, expressed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, that where Inward Investment Grants were given by the Comhairle, regard would be paid to the terms and conditions of employees employed by Companies grant aided by public funds.
Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership DS02.51	83*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a proposal to make a contribution of £1,500 to the Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership. The Report gave details of the work undertaken by the Partnership and indicated that it provided a cost-effective means of assisting businesses in the Western Isles to develop their exports.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to contribute the sum of £1,500 to the Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership for 2000/01 from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion) for 2000/01, on condition that the Comhairle be provided with a Report at the end of the financial year, assessing the impact of the Highlands and Islands Trade Export Partnership's activities on firms in the Western Isles.
Scottish Highlands and Islands Film Commission DS40.01.10	84*	With reference to item 123 of the Minute of Meeting of 19 August 1998, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning an application for financial assistance from the Scottish Highlands and Islands Film Commission. The Report gave background information on the Commission, which was based on a partnership between five local authorities in the Highlands and Islands area and Moray Council, with the aim of encouraging film and the media activity in the area. The Report referred to the Commission's Production Guide, which gave details of film related services available in the Highlands and Islands. It was indicated that a number of enquires had been received from film and TV companies, with three actively pursuing further information in relation to locations and services in the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to contribute the sum of £1,500 to the Scottish Highlands and Islands Film Commission for 2000/01, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion) for 2000/01, on terms and conditions to be determined by the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.
Western Isles Oil Industry DS02.39	85*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the impact of the oil industry on the Western Isles economy. The Report referred to the exploration activity which had taken place in 1997/98 West of the Hebrides and intimated that exploration drilling was now underway in three blocks, some 60 miles west of Lewis. The Report stated that, notwithstanding the closure of the Lewis Offshore Limited yard at Arnish in 1999, approximately 200 residents of the Western Isles worked in the global oil industry.
		The Report referred to the activities of the Western Isles Oil Group in marketing the Western Isles as a base for oil related companies and gave details of the Group's budget for 2000/01. The Report concluded that the oil industry was still of considerable importance to the Western Isles economy and that this sector of economic activity could generate a wide range of employment opportunities, both on and off shore, in the event of oil companies continuing to develop the West of the Hebrides field.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make a grant in the sum of £5,000 to the Western Isles Oil Group, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Sectoral and Area Development Support) for 2000/01, on terms and conditions to be determined by him, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services. It was further agreed that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a Report to the August meeting of the Committee concerning the oil industry in the Western Isles, with particular regard to the role played by socio-economic factors in environmental impact assessments and the range of conditions which could be attached to oil licences, particularly whether any such conditions could determine where oil development was serviced; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be requested to invite a representative of an oil company to address the Committee at its August meeting.
"The Future is Hand Woven", Harris Tweed Exhibition DS02.38	86*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from the Harris Tweed Authority for a contribution towards the cost involved in staging a Harris Tweed Exhibition to be held in the Scotland Office, Dover House, London, on 5-6 September 2000. The Report gave details of the Exhibition, which was aimed at promoting the image of Harris Tweed to the international press, British based retailers, garment manufacturers and international designers. It was stated in the Report that the total cost of this prestigious Exhibition was estimated in the sum of £60,000 and that it was anticipated that the Exhibition would assist the Harris Tweed Industry to maintain the increased demand for Harris Tweed.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:
		(1) authorise the Acting Chief Executive to approve funding of £10,000 to the Harris Tweed Authority as a contribution towards the cost of "The Future is Hand Woven", Harris Tweed Exhibition, to be held in the Scotland Office, Dover House, Whitehall, London, on 5-6 September 2000, on the basis of this sum being met from the "carry forward savings", from the 1999/2000 Revenue Estimates for Development Services; and
		(2) authorise the Director of Corporate Services to approve the attendance at the above-mentioned Exhibition by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, or their nominees.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item, on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Generic Marketing Based on "Castaway 2000" Project DS40.08	87*	With reference to item 68 of the Minute of Meeting of 29 March 2000, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the action taken by him following the decision of the Comhairle to fund a temporary post at a cost of £6,000 to help take forward tourism marketing building on the publicity generated by the "Castaway 2000" project being broadcasted on BBC television throughout 2000. It was indicated in the Report that, in order to ensure that the marketing opportunities afforded by the "Castaway 2000" project were implemented as quickly as possible, it had been thought appropriate to appoint a Consultant to carry out the necessary marketing activity. Details of the steps taken to appoint a Consultant were given in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that the action taken by the Acting Chief Executive in seeking tenders from individuals/companies to build on publicity generated by the "Castaway 2000" project, rather than appointing a Comhairle employee, be homologated. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Western Isles Exhibition in Millennium Dome Request for Financial Assistance DS09.53	88*	There was submitted a joint Report by the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services and the Acting Chief Executive outlining proposals to utilise the large exhibition space, display prints and video wall in the Millennium Dome, Greenwich, to promote the Western Isles. Details of the proposed Exhibition were given in the Report and it was intimated that it was envisaged that it would be possible to reuse exhibits planned for the Dome Exhibition.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make available financial assistance towards the cost of the Millennium Dome Exhibition, Greenwich, up to a maximum of £4,000, on the basis of the sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion) for 2000/01.
Onshore Pipe Line Welder Training Course PR21.03	89*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on a training initiative aimed at developing the skills of redundant welders. It was intimated in the Report that those welders successfully completing the pipe line welder training course would be adequately trained to lay gas pipe lines and that the demand for such skills would increase as a result of the decision by Transco to undertake a substantial investment programme to improve the national gas transmission system. It was stated in the Report that the first onshore pipe line welder training course would give places to some 44 welders, four of whom would be resident in the Western Isles. Details of the costs associated with the training course were given in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle approve, on a "one-off" basis only, a contribution to the pipe line welder training initiative, of £1,000 for each of the four welders from the Western Isles who had secured a placement on the training course and that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to make the necessary payments on the basis of the sum involved being met from the "carry forward" from the Revenue Estimates for European and Development Services for 1999/2000.
Policy on Publicity for Projects Part Funded by the European Social Fund PR70.02	90*	The Acting Chief Executive and the Director of Social Work submitted a joint Report concerning the establishment of a Formal Policy on Publicity for Projects Part Funded by the European Social Fund, in which the Comhairle was the lead agency. The Report proposed action required to be taken by the Comhairle to fulfil the responsibility for publicity in respect of the Opportunities for Training Towards Independence and the Community Employment Initiative.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that:
		(1) the Comhairle note the requirement for successful applicants to the European Social Fund, to give publicity to European Social Fund (ESF) supported activities;
		(2) approve the undernoted proposed policy statement: "Comhairle nan Eilean Siar will seek to ensure that all ESF projects for which the Comhairle has lead responsibility will be subject to the requirement to publicise ESF support as outlined in the guidance provided by the Programme Executive of the Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme. The Comhairle will monitor the implementation of this policy in the following ways: (a) by checking that an appropriate strategy for publicity is in place before approving bids for ESF assistance; and (b) by checking that the said strategy is being properly adhered to at the point of approving bids for the continuation of ESF assistance to established projects; It shall be the responsibility in the respective departments providing match funding to ensure that this policy is fully implemented before seeking the approval of the Comhairle for ESF bids"; and
		(3) Officers of the Comhairle be authorised to monitor the implementation of the Comhairle's policy on information and publicity on an annual basis when permission is sought to proceed with ESF bids for the forthcoming year.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following five items, on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Unit 3, Barvas Development Estate DS41.18.07	91*	The Head of European and Development Services submitted a Report concerning a request from Dr Neil R Galbraith, Acting Chief Executive, to lease Unit 3, Barvas Development Estate. The Report gave background information and commented on the request and outlined the basis on which it was proposed to lease Unit 3, Barvas Development Estate, to Dr Galbraith.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to lease to Dr Neil Galbraith, Unit 3, Barvas Development Estate, on terms and conditions to be determined by the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Head of European and Development Services. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Unit 3, Mossend Development Estate DS41.23.03	92*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Mr Alex Murray, trading as Alex Murray Construction, to terminate his lease of Unit 3, Mossend Development Estate. The Report gave background information in relation to the request.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to agree to the request from Mr Alex Murray, trading as Alex Murray Construction, to vacate Unit 3, Mossend Development Estate, Stornoway, and that the current lease be terminated, on the basis detailed in the Report. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Unit 4, Mossend Development Estate DS41.23.04	93*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Mr Murdo Macdonald, trading as Lewis Carpet Centre, to terminate his lease of Unit 4, Mossend Development Estate. The Report gave background information in relation to the request.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to agree to the request from Mr Murdo Macdonald, trading as Lewis Carpet Centre, to vacate Unit 4, Mossend Industrial Estate, Stornoway, and that the current lease be terminated on the basis detailed in the Report. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Unit 5, Mossend Development Estate DS41.23.05	94*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request from Mr Roderick Graham, trading as Stornoway Motors, to terminate his lease of Unit 5, Mossend Development Estate. The Report gave background information in relation to the request.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to agree to the request from Mr Roderick Graham, trading as Stornoway Motors, to vacate Unit 5, Mossend Industrial Estate, Stornoway, and that the current lease be terminated, on the basis detailed in the Report. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Site and Properties Management DS20.24	95*	With reference to item 196 of the Minute of Meeting of 6 October 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report inviting the Committee to consider the current and future policy for properties held on the Development Services Account. The Report commented on the new capital accounting rules associated with leasing and the termination of leases of Comhairle property and indicated that, if a lease of a property was terminated, it was no longer treated as a notional capital payment in terms of Section 94 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as amended. It was emphasised in the Report that the letting of commercial sites and premises to businesses was a means of stimulating new and existing businesses thereby ensuring economic growth and job creation in the Western Isles. It was further indicated that there was a trend for businesses to prefer to purchase properties rather than leasing them and that such a practice was in line with advice given by Banks and other commercial lenders to businesses. Details of all European and Development Services properties and sites were appended to the Report, together with a recommendation as to whether the sites should be retained, sold or transferred to another more appropriate Comhairle account. It was recommended that the Comhairle agree to change its policy for all European and Development Services' commercial properties as follows:
		(1) retain multi-occupancy properties on a short term lease and all properties which are within harbour areas;
		(2) transfer properties or sites where their function was more appropriately located within another department within the Comhairle;
		(3) offer for sale, stand-alone properties or land to sitting tenants at the open market value, as determined by the District Valuer, Scotland North West, and on such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive, may deem appropriate; and
		(4) offer for sale, unoccupied stand-alone properties or land by advertisement on the open market, on the basis that the Acting Chief Executive would submit a further Report to the Comhairle on any offers received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the recommendations detailed in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive concerning Sites and Properties Management, be recommended for approval, subject to the addition of the following words at recommendation (2), namely: "subject to further Reports on affected properties being submitted to the appropriate Committee by the Acting Chief Executive." Arising out of consideration of this matter, it was agreed to request the Acting Chief Executive to submit a Report to the August meetings of the Housing and Development Services Committees on the large area of derelict land within the Newton Ward.
Progress on Loch Nam Madadh Marine Special Area of Conservation Life Project DS61.01	96*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report outlining a draft Management Scheme for the Lochmaddy European Marine Site (EMS) Special Area of Conservation. It was indicated in the Report that the Management Scheme for the Lochmaddy EMS had been developed following wide-spread consultation to ensure maximum local support for the European designation. It was stated in the Report that the Comhairle was a "relevant authority" for the EMS and that its role was exercised through the powers vested in the Comhairle as Harbour Authority, the Authority for the production of Statutory Plans, Development Control and Environmental Health. It was stated that the proposed interim management structure was based on the creation of a management group and the holding of an annual forum, on the basis that the forum would be attended by the relevant and competent authorities, local community interests and stake holders. It was indicated in the Report that the arrangements for the Lochmaddy EMS would be reviewed after a period of 1 year and, if successful, could provide a model for other European Marine Sites in the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:
		(1) support the proposed management structure for Lochmaddy European Marine Site as an interim arrangement, the effectiveness of this arrangement to be reviewed by the Acting Chief Executive, one year after its establishment, on the basis of a further Report on this matter being submitted to the Committee;
		(2) agree to nominate the Chairman or his nominee as its representative on the proposed Management Group and Forum; and
		(3) support the view that Chairmanship of the proposed Management Group and Forum and responsibility for their secretariat be rotated between the relevant and competent authorities, with the Comhairle offering to undertake these responsibilities for the first year.
Mink Control DS40.02.22	97*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the activities of the Uist Mink Group which had been established in 1999 to address the problems posed as a result of mink being present in North Uist and Benbecula. Details of the trapping effort undertaken by the Uist Mink Group were given in the Report and it was intimated that, in March 2000, Scottish Natural Heritage had commissioned a feasibility study to evaluate trapping results and to make recommendations for future mink trapping, including the total eradication of mink from the Western Isles. It was suggested in the Report that, as any major scheme to eliminate mink from the Western Isles would need to attract substantial financial assistance from a wide range of sources, it would be appropriate to continue with trapping in the Uists and South Harris during the 2000/01 Winter period, on a scale similar to that undertaken during the 1999/2000 Winter period.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to:
		(1) provide a financial contribution of £5,000 to the Uist Mink Control Group for the 2000/01 trapping season, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Community Initiative) budget; and
		(2) provide a financial contribution of £2,000 to the Lewis and Harris Mink Control Group for the 2000/01 trapping season, from the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Community Initiative) budget, on terms and conditions to be determined, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.
New Minch Forum DS40.04.33	98*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report intimating that it would not be appropriate to support a formal replacement for the Minch Forum at the present time. Details of consultations undertaken with organisations with an interest in the Minch, in relation to the future of the Minch Forum, were given in the Report and it was stated that these key organisations were willing to develop closer informal ties in relation to any relevant issues concerning the Minch.
		It was agreed to recommend that:
		(1) the Comhairle agree not to support a replacement structure for the Minch Forum at the present time; and
		(2) Officers of the Comhairle be instructed to maintain informal contacts with their counterparts in the neighbouring local authorities and Scottish Natural Heritage and to bring any relevant issues concerning the Minch to the attention of the appropriate Committee.
Western Isles Tourism Strategy DS40.08	99*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report indicating that it was anticipated that the Western Isles draft Strategic Plan for Tourism would be published in the near future and would set out the direction that Tourism in the Western Isles should take in the five year period 2001-2005. It was indicated in the Report that the draft Strategic Plan would form the basis for an Action Plan and projects for the development of Tourism and that, as a necessary pre-requisite for the implementation of any Action Plan and projects, the draft Strategic Plan would have to be adopted by the main funding partners, together with Scottish Natural Heritage and those involved in the tourism industry. The background to the preparation of the draft Strategic Plan for Tourism was outlined in the Report and it was intimated that all the agencies involved in tourism in the Western Isles would have to agree to either an Action Plan covering the whole industry or to a number of smaller plans devoted to specific areas, namely:
		(1) cultural tourism;
		(2) marketing;
		(3) activity holidays; and
		(4) short break package holidays.
		It was further intimated that these Plans could be used as the basis for applying for external funding from the Highlands and Islands Special Programme. The Report suggested that, in light of the fact that the draft Strategic Plan for Tourism contained a considerable amount of detail, it would be appropriate to establish a Member/Officer Working Group to consider the stance of the Comhairle in relation to the issues raised in the Plan, prior to discussions taking place with outside organisations.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to establish a Member/Officer Working Group, to consider in detail, the Western Isles Strategic Plan for Tourism 2001-2005, on the basis that the Member/Officer Working Group would comprise the following membership:
		Mr Ronald Mackinnon, Member for Locheynort Ward;
		Mrs Morag Munro, Member for Harris West Ward;
		Mr Malcolm Graham, Member for Coll Ward;
		Mr Norman A Macdonald, Member for Uig Ward; and
		Officers of the Comhairle to be determined by the Acting Chief Executive.
Western Isles Tourist Board Application for Annual Grant 2000/01 DS02.07	100*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report regarding an application for grant assistance from the Western Isles Tourist Board in respect of the financial year 2000/2001. Details of the matter were set out in the Report. It was noted that, in addition to the request for core funding, the Western Isles Tourist Board had requested the Comhairle to consider funding three additional posts, together with additional financial assistance for marketing. Comments on the proposals were set out in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that:
		(1) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to award a grant in the sum of £84,050 to the Western Isles Tourist Board, WITB, for the 2000/01 financial year, on the basis of terms and conditions to be determined by the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive;
		(2) the Comhairle indicate to the Western Isles Tourist Board that a grant of at least the same amount for 2001/02 and 2002/03 would be forthcoming from the Comhairle;
		(3) the Comhairle, Western Isles Tourist Board and other interested parties meet to discuss the future structure, responsibilities, staffing and financial resources of the Western Isles Tourist Board;
		(4) the Comhairle, Western Isles Tourist Board and other interested parties investigate the possibility for external funding for the posts identified in the Report; and
		(5) the Comhairle investigate the possibility of allocating additional extra funds to Tourism, including matching funding for the new posts identified in the Report, pending the adoption of the Western Isles Strategic Plan for Tourism 2001-2005, by all parties.
Sail Hebrides 2000 (Hebridean Maritime Festival, 2-4 August 2000 DS02.48	101*	With reference to item 107 of the Minute of Meeting of 16 June 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for financial assistance from Sail Hebrides towards the costs involved in co-ordinating a Maritime Festival in August 2000. It was indicated that the event planned for August 2000 would be centred in Stornoway Harbour and would feature a wide range of maritime activities and that financial assistance for the event had also been sought from Western Isles Enterprise and the private sector. The Report concluded that the Maritime Event planned for August 2000 would build on the success of the Maritime Festival held in 1999.
		Details of the proposed funding for the Hebridean Maritime Festival to be held in August 2000 were outlined in the Report.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to agree to the application of residual funding from a contribution of £4,000 to Sail Hebrides agreed by the Comhairle in June 1999, towards the costs of co-ordinating the proposed Maritime Festival in August 2000.
Scottish Tourist Board "Traditional Music and Tourism Initiative" 1999-2000 DS40.08.09	102*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving details of the main findings of a pilot study undertaken by the Scottish Tourist Board, in partnership with the Scottish Arts Council and other agencies, to establish whether substantial economic gains could be made from traditional music and tourism promotion. The Report referred to the broad range of musical events which took place in the Western Isles, including local Mod, Feisean, the internationally successful Ceolas, the Hebridean Celtic Festival and various piping competitions.
		It was suggested in the Report that it would be appropriate to undertake a feasibility study with a view to maximising the economic potential associated with traditional music and tourism, with the remit of the feasibility study being as follows:
		(1) to conduct an audit of current traditional music events in the Western Isles;
		(2) to liaise with the Scottish Tourist Board to investigate ways in which the Western Isles could benefit from the Traditional Music and Tourism Initiative 1999/2000; and
		(3) to prepare an integrated strategy on traditional music and tourism to encourage more tourists with an interest in traditional music to visit the Western Isles.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle:
		(1) accept the recommendations of the Traditional Music and Tourism Initiative 1999/2000; and
		(2) agree that, in the Western Isles context, the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with appropriate Heads of Service and in conjunction with interested outside bodies, investigate the cost of a feasibility study to deliver an integrated strategy on traditional music and tourism which would deliver economic benefits to the Western Isles economy.
European Festivals of Islands Cultures DS40.08	103*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking approval, in principle, for the participation by the Comhairle in European Festivals of Islands Cultures. The background to the Festivals of Islands Cultures was outlined in the Report and it was intimated that an application for financial assistance for the project had been made by the Conference for Peripheral Maritime Regions Islands Commission, in partnership with the Comhairle and other associated Island groups, to the European Culture 2000 Programme. The Report highlighted the fact that cultural tourism was one of the fastest growing sectors within the Tourism industry and that the Western Isles were in a position to take advantage of such growth due to the unique cultural tourism elements available in the Western Isles. It was stated in the Report that the publicity generated by the European Festivals of Islands Cultures would raise the profile of the Western Isles and assist in the marketing of the unique cultural attractions of the area in a European context and it was further intimated that the initiative could be undertaken in partnership with the Western Isles Tourist Board.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle should participate, in principle, in the European Festivals of Islands Cultures, in association with the Conference for Peripheral Maritime Regions, to capitalise on the lucrative European cultural tourism market; and
		(2) if European funding bids were unsuccessful, a maximum of £10,000 be allocated per annum, to ensure participation in the European Festivals of Islands Cultures, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates (Gaelic Economic Development).
Western Isles Golf Initiative DS40.08.15	104*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a request for funding from the Western Isles Golf Initiative. The Report referred to the golf strategy prepared for the Western Isles to maximise the visitor appeal and potential of golf and referred to the two main parts of the strategy, namely:
		(1) the establishment of a post of part-time Golf Co-ordinator; and
		(2) the production of a Western Isles Golf Guide.
		The Report identified the potential for developing visitor participation in golf in the Western Isles and proposed that funding should be available to golf providers and that, in considering such applications for funding, preference would be given to joint or co-ordinated proposals designed to achieve the following aims:
		(1) increasing the use of the present golf facilities by existing general visitors to the Western Isles;
		(2) attracting an increased number of golf visitors to the Western Isles; and
		(3) enhancing the visitor experience by developing the Western Isles golf product, including the facilities and provisions for visitors.
		It was agreed to recommend that:
		(1) the Comhairle allocate £10,000 (£5,000 from the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Tourism) budget and £5,000 from the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Promotion and Marketing) budget towards the Western Isles Golf Initiative; and
		(2) it be delegated to the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, to draw up detailed funding criteria and invite applications and determine individual grant awards, up to a maximum of £5,000, on the basis that particular consideration would be given to developing the Askernish Golf Course.
Programme and Progress T07.01	105	FISHERIES AND FISHERY PIERS The Director of Technical Services submitted the Capital Works Programme and Progress Report in respect of Fishery Piers. It was agreed to note the Report.
Fresh Seafood Sale, Kallin Pier T07.02.46	106*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning a proposal by the Grimsay Community Association to establish a pilot project to retail fresh lobsters and prawns on a twice weekly basis at Kallin Pier.
		Details of the project were given in the Report and it was intimated that the Community Association had also approached Duchas for grant towards the cost involved.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to grant the Grimsay Community Association up to a maximum of £1,180, on the basis of this sum being met from provision within the Revenue Estimates for Development Services (Marketing and Promotion) for 2000/01 for the purpose of setting up a pilot shellfish retailing project at Kallin Pier, during the Summer of 2000, subject to terms and conditions being determined by the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Chief Executive.
Fisheries Loan Scheme DS40.04.41	107*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the new Fisheries Loan Scheme. It was stated in the Report that the Scheme, which came into operation on 23 December 1999, had considered some 16 applications and approved loans in the sum of £285,000, thereby, creating and retaining some 25 jobs. The Report gave details of a number of proposed changes to the Scheme to ensure compliance with the latest safety regulations.
		It was agreed to recommend that:
		(1) the Comhairle note the success of the Fisheries Loan Scheme;
		(2) the Comhairle approve the granting of a further Guarantee in favour of the Royal Bank of Scotland for 50% of the sums outstanding in terms of the Fisheries Loan Scheme, subject to a maximum global guarantee limit of £200,000; and
		(3) authorise the Acting Chief Executive to amend the terms and conditions of the Fisheries Loan Scheme, in order to ensure compliance with the latest safety organisations.
Freshwater Fisheries in the Western Isles DS40.01.15	108*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report referring to the economic study of freshwater fisheries in the Western Isles undertaken by the Western Isles Fisheries Trust. It was intimated in the Report that the Study would form the basis of a strategic development plan for recreational fisheries in the Western Isles and that it was important to ensure the co-ordination of information on and improved promotion of angling opportunities, in particular in relation to visitors to the Western Isles. It was further intimated that the Western Isles Fisheries Trust had requested that the Comhairle make a financial contribution towards its ongoing core costs of approximately £60,000 per annum. It was suggested in the Report that the Comhairle should make a contribution to the Western Isles Fisheries Trust towards ongoing core costs and also to make a financial contribution towards the costs involved in establishing a six month part-time post, which would be concerned with marketing and development of the freshwater fisheries.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle allocate funding of £5,000 from the Revenue Estimates for Development Services 2000/01 (Fisheries Development Budget), to be made available to the Western Isles Fisheries Trust for the purpose of progressing a freshwater fisheries marketing and development strategy for the Western Isles, as outlined in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive, subject to terms and conditions to be determined by the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to the amount of any expenditure proposed to be incurred by the Comhairle under any particular contract for the acquisition of property or the supply of goods or services and information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Pontoon Facilities at Miavaig, Stockinish, Lochboisdale and Acarsaid, Feasibility Study T07.02.47	109*	With reference to item 245 of the Minute of Meeting of 1 December 1999, the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the proposed feasibility study of pontoon berthing at Miavaig, Stockinish, Acarsaid and Lochboisdale. The Report referred to tenders received for the feasibility study and indicated that the tender from Arch Henderson and Partners, whilst not the lowest tender submitted, offered the best value for money for the Comhairle, in that the methodology proposed was comprehensive and that, in addition, the Company had relevant experience in a number of similar small scale schemes in Scotland.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Technical Services be authorised to instruct the Director of Corporate Services to accept the tender from Arch Henderson and Partners, in the sum of £9,500 for the feasibility study into the provision of pontoon berthing facilities at Miavaig, Stockinish, Lochboisdale and Acarsaid.
		The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Finalised Harris Local Plan DS24.06	110*	LOCAL PLANS With reference to item 248 of the Minute of Meeting of 1 December 1999, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report giving information on the responses received as a result of the public consultation on the Finalised Harris Local Plan. The Report set out the initial response of the Acting Chief Executive to the representations received and identified key concerns as being as follows: (1) economic emphasis and the Iomairt aig an Oir priority; (2) caravan and camping; (3) harbour infill, East Loch Tarbert; (4) minerals; (5) environmental designations including National Scenic Areas; (6) housing sites; and (7) lighting pollution.
		It was intimated in the Report that, in accordance with Planning Advice Note 49, every effort would be made to respond to the representations received to resolve objections or to have them withdrawn. It was intimated in the Report that, in the majority of cases, it was anticipated that a satisfactory resolution would be achieved. It was further intimated that proposed modifications to the Local Plan would be drafted, taking account of negotiations with those making representations and a further Report on these proposed modifications, together with any implications for a Public Local Inquiry, where it had not been possible to resolve particular objections, would be submitted to the Committee.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Comhairle: (1) note the Report by the Acting Chief Executive entitled "Finalised Harris Local Plan: Representations Received"; (2) agree that the Acting Chief Executive's responses, as outlined in paragraph 6.1 to 6.52 of the Report, would form an initial stance for progressing the Harris Local Plan modifications; and (3) that the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to negotiate resolution of outstanding objections to the Finalised Harris Local Plan.
		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Western Isles Slaughterhouses DS40.42	111*	CROFTING The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning requests for financial assistance from the four slaughterhouses in the Western Isles. The Report gave background information in relation to the requests and commented on the position with regard to State Aid. It was agreed to recommend that:
		(1) interim payments be made by the Acting Chief Executive to the undernoted slaughterhouses: (a) Barra - £750 (b) Lochmaddy - £6,000 (c) Harris - £1,250 (d) Heather Isle Meats - £45,000 TOTAL - £53,000 on a without prejudice basis; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pursue the Scottish Executive Rural Affairs Department, SERAD and the European Commission, with a view to achieving an agreeable solution on the question of State Aid. It was further agreed that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a detailed Report on slaughterhouses in the Western Isles to the August meeting of the Committee.
		The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.

		It was agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Lewis and Harris Auction Mart Limited PR43.31	112*	With reference to item 68 of the Finance Sub-Committee of 29 May 2000, the Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report regarding a guarantee by the Comhairle in respect of a loan to Lewis and Harris Auction Mart Limited and an agreement to meet the costs of servicing the loan for the term of the loan. The cost of servicing the loan in 1998/99 and 1999/2000 was set out in the Report. It was noted that no provision had been made in the Comhairle's budget in respect of the servicing of this loan. It was proposed that the cost be met from contingency in the current financial year and that provision be included in the Revenue Estimates for European and Development Services for future years.
		It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Acting Chief Executive be authorised to pay a Revenue Grant, of up to a maximum of £10,000, to Lewis and Harris Auction Mart Limited, in respect of servicing a loan to that Company, the sum to be met from the contingency fund in 2000/01; and (2) provision be made in the Revenue Estimates for future years for additional funding in the European and Development Services budgets in respect of this sum. Mr Donald Manford, seconded by Mr Ronald Mackinnon, moved that consideration of the above matter be deferred and that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to prepare a detailed Report on Lewis and Harris Auction Mart Limited, for submission to the Committee. Mr Norman L Macdonald, seconded by the Mr Archibald K Campbell, moved, as an amendment, that the recommendations detailed in the Report by the Acting Chief Executive, be approved.
		On the matter being put to the vote, the amendment received the majority of votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.
		It was further agreed that the Acting Chief Executive be requested to submit a detailed Report on Lewis and Harris Auction Mart Limited to the August meeting of the Committee.
Creation of a Full Time Crofting and Land Use Management Officer Position DS40.02	113*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report regarding the creation of a full time Crofting and Land Use Management Officer subject to support from Scottish Natural Heritage being forthcoming. It was indicated that Scottish Natural Heritage had expressed an interest in providing matching funding to create such a full time post. Details of the proposal were set out in the Report.
		It was recommended in the Report that the Committee, insofar as its interest was concerned, agree to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle support the creation of a full time Crofting and Land Use Management Officer position, subject to the support of Scottish Natural Heritage being forthcoming, on the basis detailed in the Report; (2) details of the position, (eg, location, line management, nature of appointment, specific duties, etc) being determined by the Acting Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chairman and Scottish Natural Heritage; and (3) the Comhairle give further consideration to future funding options for the above post, beyond March 2001 in Autumn 2000 as part of the budgetary process.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations detailed in the Report, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, subject to the inclusion of the words "the Vice-Chairman and Scottish Crofters Union", after the word "Chairman" in recommendation (2) above.
Design Guidance DS20.21	114*	DEVELOPMENT CONTROL The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report referring to the Scottish Office Consultation Paper entitled "Improving the Design of New Houses in the Scottish Countryside" and further discussions which had taken place with other local authorities throughout the Highlands and Islands concerning design guidance. It was further intimated that, following the consultation process, initiated by the Scottish Executive on policy on the architecture for Scotland, a clear need had been established for the Comhairle to make progress towards improving the effectiveness of design guidance and it was suggested that this could be achieved by: (1) improving the quality of published design guides, (2) establishing local and regional forums to include representatives of planning authorities and the construction industry; (3) introducing awards for good design; and (4) improving the use of the internet to share and promote ideas relating to design guidance.
		The Report concluded that, if the suggested strategy on design guidance was implemented, this should lead to greater awareness of design issues and improved quality of developments.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to implement the strategy for improving design guidance outlined in his Report and that the strategy be included as a Key Task for Development Control in the Environmental Services Department's Service Plan.
Planning Procedures for Telecommunications Developments DS21.01.07	115*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report setting out the Scottish Parliament and Transport and Environment Committee's findings and recommendations concerning proposals to introduce new planning procedures for telecommunications developments. The Report gave details of the specific recommendations made by the Committee to the Scottish Parliament and highlighted the Committee's recommendation that telecommunications operators should be required to produce an annual audit of their installations and that full planning control for telecommunications developments should be introduced. The Report further set out the response by Scottish Ministers to the Committee's Report and, in particular, referred to the commitment given by Sarah Boyack, Transport and Environment Minister, that National Planning Policy Guidance and a Planning Advice Note concerning telecommunications developments would be produced as a matter of urgency.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle welcome the findings and recommendations of the Scottish Parliament's Transport and Environment Committee on telecommunication developments; (2) the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to advise the Scottish Parliament's Transport and Environment Committee and the Scottish Executive that the Comhairle considered that the questions of retrospective control over existing telecommunications developments merited further investigation and comment;
		(3) the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to submit his Report concerning planning procedures for telecommunications developments to the Scottish Parliament, Alasdair Morrison MSP, and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, together with any supplementary views which Members of the Comhairle may wish to have considered; and
		(4) the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to emphasise to the Scottish Executive that the legislative and advice changes required to implement the recommendations of the Scottish Parliament's Transport and Environment Committee, should be implemented as expeditiously as possible, in order to remove a period of uncertainty and disparity in the determination of proposals for new telecommunications equipment.
Sand Extraction at Traigh Shanda, Ness DS21.01.01	116	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning Sand Extraction at Traigh Shanda, Ness. The Report gave background information on the sand extraction activity taking place at Traigh Shanda and referred to the Planning Contravention Notice served on 4 March 1999 in an effort to prevent the removal of sand from outwith the "approved area". The Report further referred to difficulties associated with enforcement and intimated that it may be appropriate for the Comhairle to consider alternative options relating to sand extraction at Traigh Shanda, which could include encouraging the submission of a new application to extract wind blown sand from a specific area, which had been identified by both Scottish Natural Heritage and the British Geological Survey, as being relatively stable and areas where sand was actively accumulating.
		It was recommended in the Report that the Comhairle give consideration to the option of limiting extraction to the removal of wind blow sand at Traigh Shanda, as outlined in the Report by the Acting Director of Environmental Services, subject to consideration of the terms of the response received from Scottish Natural Heritage.
		It was agreed to defer consideration of this matter to allow the Committee to visit the site at Traigh Shanda, on the basis that the visit to the site would take place on Monday, 19 June 2000, prior to the above Report by the Acting Director of Environmental Services, being considered at a special meeting of the Committee on the evening of Monday, 19 June 2000.
Erect Agricultural Implement Shed at Seabhal, 19 Brue DS21.01	117*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for prior notification for the erection of an implement shed at Seabhal, 19 Brue, Barvas, Isle of Lewis. It was indicated in the Report that, as the applicant, Mr K A Matheson, was the brother-in-law of a Planning Officer, the matter had not been dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation and been referred to the Committee for determination. It was further intimated in the Report that the proposals were in conformity with planning legislation and would otherwise have been approved.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to make no objections to the application for prior notification for the erection of an implement shed at Seabhal, 19 Brue, Barvas, Isle of Lewis. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Extend Filling Station, Cannery Road, Stornoway DS21.01	118*	PLANNING APPLICATIONS Mr Norman L Macdonald declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter. The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for an extension to the filling station at Cannery Road, Stornoway. The Report gave background information in relation to the application and intimated that, as the applicant was Mr Angus Campbell, Member for the Newton Ward, the matter had not been dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation and had been referred to the Committee for determination. It was further intimated that the proposals, as submitted, complied with planning legislation and would otherwise have been approved.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for the extension to the filling station at Cannery Road, Stornoway, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Retain Portable Sub-Post Office Unit at 44 Crossbost, Lochs DS21.01	119*	Mr Finlay Morrison, a non-Member of the Committee, declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter. The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application to renew a planning permission for the siting of a portable unit for use as a Sub-Post Office at 44 Crossbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis. It was intimated in the Report that, as the applicant, Mrs M K Morrison, was the wife of Mr Finlay Morrison, Member for the North Lochs Ward, the matter had not been dealt with in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation and had been referred to the Committee for determination. It was further intimated in the Report that the proposals, as submitted, were in conformity with planning legislation and would otherwise have been approved.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to renew planning permission for the siting of a portable unit for use as a Sub-Post Office at 44 Crossbost, Lochs, Isle of Lewis, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report. The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Erection of Light Industrial Units at Eireastadh, Uig DS21.01	120*	Mr Norman A Macdonald, a non-Member of the Committee, declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter. The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission for the development of an area of approximately 12,000 square metres, on land adjacent to the Comhairle's housing scheme at Eireastadh, Timsgarry, Uig, Isle of Lewis. The Report gave background information on the application and indicated that representations had been received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to approve the planning applications for the development of an area of approximately 12,000 square metres of land adjacent to the Comhairle housing scheme at Eireastadh, Timsgarry, Uig, Isle of Lewis, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
		The Committee unanimously agreed that, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, the Committee determine the above recommendation on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to have the matter dealt with prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle, on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Extend Existing Quarry at Askernish, South Uist DS21.01	121*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report concerning an application for planning permission to extend the existing quarry at Askernish, South Uist. The Report gave background information, commented on the application and indicated that representations had been received.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Environmental Services be authorised to grant planning permission for an extension to the existing quarry at Askernish, South Uist, subject to the conditions detailed in the Report.
Amended Siting for Eriskay Causeway Quarry DS21.01	122	The Principal Administrator sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw this item.
Offshore Northern Seas Oil Exhibition and Conference DS03.19	123*	CONFERENCES AND COURSES The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the European Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition which was scheduled to take place in August in Stavanger, Norway. It was further intimated that there was also an opportunity if Members of the Comhairle attended the above-mentioned Conference and Exhibition to undertake a Study Visit to a community in North Norway, to see at first hand, the difficulties being experienced by a community with the potential to benefit from oil related activity but were faced, at the present time, with a period of uncertainty with regard to oil exploration and extraction.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle be represented by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Committee, or their nominees, at the Offshore Northern Seas ONS 2000 Oil Exhibition and Conference in August 2000 in Stavanger, Norway; and (2) the Acting Chief Executive and the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to ensure that the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, or their nominees, attending the above Conference and Exhibition, were given an opportunity to study a remote North Norway community at the time of the above-mentioned Conference and Exhibition.
Marketing and Promotion/Sector and Area Support Best Value Service Review DS40.24	124*	PERFORMANCE REVIEW The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Best Value Service Review being undertaken for the following: (1) Marketing and Promotion; and (2) Sector and Area Support. The Report gave details of the terms of reference for the proposed review, together with information on the review team and the timetable envisaged for the review.
		It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle approve the following terms of reference: "To examine the services provided by the Acting Chief Executive's Office in relation to marketing and promotion and sector and area support, on the provision of the support to sectors of communities in pursuit of economic improvement"; for the Best Value Service Review for: (a) Marketing and Promotion; and (b) Sector and Area Support; (2) the Comhairle approve the indicative timetable given at paragraph 7.1 of the Report by the Acting Chief Executive.
Employment Support and Training Initiatives Best Value Service Review PR10.03	125*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report concerning the Best Value Service Review for employment support and training initiatives. The Report gave details of the terms of reference for the review, information on the review team and the timetable envisaged for the review. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle approve the terms of reference for the Best Value Service Review for Employment Support and Training Initiatives as follows:
		"To examine the services provided by the Acting Chief Executive's Office in relation to employment support and training initiatives, focusing on the provision of Skillseekers, Supported Employment, Community Employment Initiative and New Deal"; and (2) the Comhairle approve the indicative timetable given at paragraph 7.1 of the Report for the Best Value Service Review for Employment Support and Training Initiatives.
Environmental Services Department Service Plan 2000/01 PR33.01.14	126*	The Acting Director of Environmental Services submitted a Report detailing the Environmental Services Department's Business Plan for 2000/2001. The Plan provided a basis for managing the demand led core workload for Environmental Services Department, for the implementation of policy decisions and for the achievement of core key tasks.
		It was agreed to recommend approval, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, of the draft service plan for the Environmental Services Department, as set out in the Appendix to the Report.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.
European and Development Services Plan PR33.01.14	127*	The Acting Chief Executive submitted a Report seeking approval for the Services Plan for European and Development Services. It was intimated in the Report that the Plan sought to integrate the Key Tasks and policies for European and Development Services into the overall workload of European and Development Services and to show how the service met the needs of clients as well as setting out how staff could be developed to meet the Comhairle's goals within the Best Value framework.
		It was agreed to recommend approval of the Service Plan for European and Development Services, as set out in the Report, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned.
		The Chairman ruled that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 50B(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, as detailed in terms of Standing Order 8(a), that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order to allow the Committee to take a view on the matter prior to the next meeting of the Committee.
Technical Services Department Service Plan 2000-2003 PR33.01.14	128*	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning the update of the Technical Services Department's three year Service Plan. It was intimated in the Report that the Service Plan followed recommended best practice as recommended in the Best Value Regime and that the COSLA business excellence model had been used to ensure that all the essential elements of Best Value could be achieved. It was further intimated that the updated Service Plan, as well as examining progress in 1999, also incorporated a range of new Key Tasks for the Technical Services Department.
		It was agreed to recommend that the Technical Services Department's Service Plan 2000-2003, be approved, as a basis for the operation and development of the Department, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned.
Outstanding Action: Progress Report PR33.01.12	129	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report detailing the Reports outstanding from decisions of the Committee since 1 May 1994. It was agreed to note the Report.
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