March 2001

COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Tuesday 27 March 2001 at 2.00pm

PRESENT

Mr Norman L Macdonald (Chairman)

Mrs Morag Munro (Vice-Chairman)

Mr Donald I Nicholson

Mr Iain Morrison

Mr Finlay Morrison

Mr Alexander A Macdonald

Rev Andrew Coghill

Mr Roderick J Murray

Rev John Macleod

Mr Murdo Macleod

Rev John A Galbraith

Mr Philip R McLean

Dr Alan J F Fraser

APOLOGIES

Mr Ian M Macleod

Mr Donald M Mackay

Mr Archie Campbell

Mr David Blaney

Tribute: Mr Donald M Mackay & Mr David Blaney

The Chairman referred to Mr Donald M Mackay and Mr David Blaney, who were currently in hospital and on behalf of the Committee wished them both a full and speedy recovery.

Prayer

The meeting was opened with prayer led by Rev John A Galbraith.

MINUTES

Education Committee

E08

24

The minutes of meetings of 30 January 2001 and 19 February 2001 were approved.

Education Sub-Committee

E08

25

The minute of meeting of the Education Sub-Committee of 21 February 2001 was approved.

Gaelic Development Sub-Committee

E08

26*

The minute of meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 1 February 2001 was submitted.

It was agreed to recommend approval of the recommendations at items 2, 3, 4 and 7 of the minute.

Lochs School Sub-Committee

E08

27

The minute of meeting of the Lochs School Sub-Committee of 21 February 2001 was noted.

Sir E Scott School/Member Officer Working Group

E08

28

The minute of meeting of the Sir E Scott School Member/Officer Working Group was noted.

BUILDINGS

Capital Works: Programme and Progress

E03

29

With reference to item 9 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Technical Services submitted a report concerning the capital works programme and progress in relation to education properties.

It was agreed to note the report.

Breasclete Community Association: Request for Lease of Comhairle owned land at Breasclete School

E02

30*

The Director of Corporate Services and the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a joint report concerning the lease of Comhairle owned land forming part of the curtilage of Breasclete School to the Breasclete Community Association to enable the Association to proceed with plans to establish a Community Centre at the school site. The letter of application, a copy of an aerial photograph and the site plan were appended to the report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) an in principle lease of land be granted to the Breasclete Community Association on such terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services shall determine; and

(2) the annual rent for the land at the nominal rate of £1 per year be approved, subject to the consent of the Scottish Ministers.

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 defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, that exempt information relating to the financial or business affairs of particular persons, other than the Comhairle would be disclosed.

Proposed Purchase of Former Bayble Schoolhouse

E02.10

31*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the purchase of the former Bayble Schoolhouse. It was indicated in the report that there were a number of reasons why consideration should be given to purchasing this property. Appended to the report was a letter from the owner of the former Bayble Schoolhouse and an aerial photograph.

It was agreed to recommend that an offer, based on valuation by the District Valuer, be submitted in respect of the property known as The Old Schoolhouse Bayble.

Mrs Morag Munro declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the item.

Tarbert Old Hostel - Lease of Premises

E02.73

32*

With reference to item 57 of the minute of meeting of 30 May 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the lease of premises at the Tarbert Old Hostel to various individuals/groups on the basis of the rental valuations provided by the District Valuer and to determine whether Comunn Eachdraidh Na Hearadh should lease the premises at a rent lower than the market rent. It was indicated in the report that Comunn Eachdraidh Na Hearadh has requested a reduction in the rent of the premises at the Tarbert Old Hostel in view of their financial situation.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the lease of office space to the various groups/persons at the respective rental values, as determined by the District Valuer, be approved and that the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to agree suitable terms and conditions of lease; and

(2) subject to obtaining the consent of the Scottish Executive, the premises be leased, at a lower market rate to Comunn Eachdraidh na Hearadh and on such terms and conditions as agreed by the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, in consultation with the Director of Corporate Services.

Proposed Terms of Lease of Daliburgh Former Janitor's House

E02

33*

With reference to item 14 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Corporate Services and the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a joint report concerning the proposed terms for the lease of the Daliburgh former Janitor's House to the Uist Traditional Music and Gaelic Arts Association. It was indicated in the report that on 20 February 2001 the Comhairle agreed to authorise the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services to lease the former Janitor's House at Daliburgh School to the Uist Traditional Music and Gaelic Arts Association.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to lease the former Janitor's House at Daliburgh School to the Uist Traditional Music and Gaelic Arts Association on the basis that the Association meet all property and other costs related to their occupation of the building and for a period of 5 years and subject to such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, shall determine; and

(2) the annual rent for the building be at the nominal rate of £1 per year, subject to the consent of the Scottish Ministers.

Proposed Terms of Lease to North Tolsta Community Council for Extension to the School/

Community Hall

E02

34*

With reference to item 86 of the minute of meeting of 1 September 2000 the Director of Corporate Services, the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services and Director of Housing submitted a report concerning the lease of land adjacent to North Tolsta Primary School and the Comhairle's Housing Scheme at Airidh a Bhreide to North Tolsta Community Council. It was indicated in the report that on 29 August 2000 the Comhairle agreed to authorise the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services to lease 137 square metres of land forming part of the curtilage of Tolsta School to North Tolsta Community Council for a period of 75 years. Following examination of the Comhairle's title deeds it became clear that a larger area of land would be required to incorporate car parking and landscaping. An amended plan showing the two plots of land now required by the North Tolsta Community Council were appended to the report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to lease the two areas of land at North Tolsta shown on the said plan extending in total to 1301 square metres, together with a right of pedestrian and vehicular access over the new access road, to the North Tolsta Community Council on the basis that the said Community Council meet all property and other costs related to the occupation of the land and building to be erected thereon and for a period of 75 years and subject to such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services and the Director of Housing shall determine; and

(2) the lease of the said subjects be for a nominal sum of £10.00 per annum subject to the Comhairle obtaining the consent of the Scottish Ministers for disposal of the land at less than market value and for the disposal of that part of the land held on the Housing Revenue Account.

Proposed Terms of Lease of Schoolhouse Garage at North Tolsta

E02

35*

The Director of Corporate Services and the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a joint report concerning the proposed terms for the lease of the schoolhouse garage at North Tolsta to Tolsta Historical Society. It was indicated in the report that on 29 August 2000 the Comhairle agreed to authorise the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services to lease the schoolhouse garage at North Tolsta to the Tolsta Historical Society but the exact terms of the lease were not determined at the Comhairle meeting.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to lease the schoolhouse garage at North Tolsta to the Tolsta Historical Society on the basis that the Society meet all property and other costs related to their occupation of the building and for a period of 20 years and subject to such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, shall determine; and

(2) the annual rent for the building be at the nominal rate of £1 per year, subject to the consent of the Scottish Ministers.

Sandwick Hall and Recreation Enterprise (SHARE): Formation of Working Group

E02

36*

With reference to item 34 of the minute of meeting of 28 March 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a request from Sandwick Hall and Recreation Enterprise that a Working Group be formed to work jointly with them to progress school and community developments at Sandwick School. The background to the matter was outlined in the report.

It was agreed to recommend that a Working Group comprising the three Local Members, namely, Mr Donald I Nicholson, Mr Angus Campbell and Mr Philip McLean, and appropriate Officers be established to work jointly with Sandwick Hall and Recreation Enterprise to progress school and community developments at Sandwick School.

EDUCATIONAL PROVISION

Quality Improvement in Education

E01

37*

With reference to item 88 of the minute of meeting of 1 September 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the main features of the drive to raise standards in Scottish Schools and the national priorities for improvement. It was indicated in the report that in June 1997 the Quality Initiative in Scottish Schools was formally launched as a partnership between schools, education authorities and the Scottish Office, with the aim being to raise standards and deliver excellence by improving the quality of educational provision in Scottish Schools.

It was agreed to recommend that the importance of the following in respect of the improvement of quality in education be noted:

(1) recent legislation - the Standards in Scotland's Schools etc Act 2000;

(2) national priorities - the five national priorities identified for education;

(3) performance measures - the targets and performance indicators that have been agreed and published for all Scottish Schools;

(4) McCrone recommendations - the recent agreement on pay and conditions; and

(5) quality assurance measures - the role of development planning, self-evaluation, external evaluation and continuing professional development in supporting schools in the delivery of quality education.

National Grid for Learning: Electronic Satchels

E01

38*

With reference to item 162 of the minute of meeting of 30 November 1999 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a current research project to examine the feasibility of providing electronic satchels and seeking approval for the inclusion of a pilot implementation as part of the National Grid for Learning proposed developments in April 2002. The main benefits of the use of electronic satchels were outlined in the report, along with the implications for publishers and for pupils and schools.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) a pilot implementation of Electronic Satchels be included as part of any extension to the National Grid for Learning proposed developments in April 2002; and

(2) a further report be brought back to the Committee concerning the outcome of the research currently being undertaken in France to evaluate the feasibility of pupils using electronic satchels.

Educational Provision: Review of Secondary Department at Eriskay School

E01

39*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report seeking the Committee's approval to undertake statutory consultations in respect of the possible closure of the Secondary Department of Eriskay School. The report indicated that it would now be appropriate, with the commissioning of the Eriskay Causeway, for the Comhairle and the local community to consider the timing of the possible closure of the Secondary Department at Eriskay School.

It was agreed to recommend that the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services be authorised to undertake statutory consultations in respect of the possible closure on 30 June 2001 of the Secondary Department of Eriskay School, with Daliburgh School being designated as the receiving school for S1/S2 pupils from Eriskay.

Higher Still Guidelines and the Standards in Scotland's Schools etc Act 2000: Formation of Monitoring and Implementation Group

E01

40*

With reference to item 18 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the establishment of a Monitoring and Implementation Group to oversee the implementation of Higher Still Guidelines and the Standards in Scotland's Schools etc Act 2000 throughout the education authority.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) a Monitoring and Implementation Group be established to oversee the implementation of Higher Still Guidelines and the Standards in Scotland's Schools etc Act 2000 throughout the Education Authority; and

(2) Mr Norman L Macdonald, Mrs Morag Munro, Mr Donald I Nicholson, Mr Philip R McLean and Mr Archie Campbell be appointed as members of the Monitoring and Implementation Group.

Lewis and Harris New Community School Project: Outcome of Bid and Establishment of Post of Integration Manager

E01

41*

With reference to item 39 of the minute of meeting of 28 March 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the outcome of the bid for a New Community School Project for Lewis and Harris. It was indicated in the report that a proposal on the basis of a support system for all Lewis and Harris schools was submitted to the Scottish Executive and that this bid was successful. As a consequence, additional funding of £600,000 over the next three years was granted to the Authority to run the Project.

It was agreed to note the successful outcome of the submission, for the Committee's interest.

Scottish Qualifications Authority: Certification 2001

E01

42*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the situation regarding SQA certification for 2001. It was indicated in the report, that following the serious problems in relation to the SQA examination diet in 2000, there was some concern in case the situation occurred again in this current year. It was also indicated that the information currently available from SQA was that a determined effort was being made to provide more information about progress and local authorities and schools were now being involved to a greater extent that was previously the case. Information available on the issue of results indicated that there would be a slight delay this year.

It was agreed to note:

(1) the information available from the Scottish Qualifications Agency; and

(2) that further reports on progress would be submitted to the Committee.

Lionacleit Hostel: Outcome of Consultation Meetings

E01

43*

With reference to item 121 of the minute of meeting of 21 November 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the views expressed at the hostel consultation meetings held with parents in Berneray and Eriskay and seeking a decision regarding the options relating to the future of Lionacleit Hostel. The report gave details of the consultation process and the results of the consultation meetings. The annual costs involved in keeping the Hostel open and the estimated annual costs of providing direct daily transport from Berneray and Eriskay were detailed in the report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) direct daily transport be provided for the pupils from Berneray and Eriskay attending Lionacleit School with effect from August 2001; and

(2) Lionacleit Hostel be closed with effect from 29 June 2001 and necessary consultations be undertaken with the affected staff.

New Stornoway Sports Centre - Consideration of Feasibility Study

E01

44*

With reference to item 6 of the minute of meeting of 1 February 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the options of the feasibility study on the redevelopment of the Nicolson Lewis Sports Centre in Stornoway. The report indicated that in January 2001 Architects were appointed to undertake a feasibility study of the most appropriate site for, and to give indicative costs for the new Stornoway Sports Centre. Details of the three main options considered by the Consultants were as follows:

1 the refurbishment and redevelopment of the existing building;

2 the development of a new building adjacent to the existing building, followed by the demolition of the existing building to be used as car parking space; and

3 a new building on the site of the Acres Boys Club followed by the demolition of the existing building.

It was also indicated that phasing on option 1 above was also being considered by the consultants. The implications of this option were outlined to members.

Full indicative costs of the three options were presented to members.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Comhairle proceed with Option 3, as detailed in the feasibility study, on the basis of a six badminton court hall and the inclusion of squash courts, subject to a further Report detailing a suitable funding package;

(2) applications for external funding be made on the basis of Option 3; and

(3) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to approach the consultants to request an extension to their quotation for developing the feasibility study to tender stage until August 2001.

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 defined in Standing Order 26(a), namely, information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or particular office holder or former office holder, or applicant to become an office holder under the Comhairle.

Gaelic Specific Grant 2001/02: Outcome of Bid

E01.01.24

45*

With reference to item 104 of the minute of meeting of 3 October 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the amount of Specific Grant for Gaelic Education offered to the Comhairle in relation to the Bid submitted to the Scottish Executive Education Department for the financial year 2001-2002 and seeking approval for an amended scheme of expenditure to take account of an allocation lower than the original bid. It was detailed in the report that the amount of grant allocated was £6658 lower than the total allocation for 2000-2001 and fell short of the aspirations of the bid submitted to the Scottish Executive. Appended to the report was a proposed expenditure spreadsheet.

It was agreed to recommend that officers be authorised to proceed with the implementation of projects, as detailed in the report by the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, with the reductions as set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

Outdoor Education: Standard Operating Procedures

E01

46*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the updated standard operating procedures for all groups involved in outdoor education pursuits. It was indicated in the report that the Comhairle has a duty to ensure that all reasonable safety precautions are in place for those involved in outdoor activities under the auspices of the Comhairle.

It was agreed to recommend that the standard operating procedures, risk assessment and safety policy as updated in 2001 be approved.

TEACHING STAFF

The McCrone Report: "A Teaching Profession for the 21^st Century"

E06

47*

With reference to item 14 of the minute of meeting of 1 February 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the main aspects of the agreement reached in relation to salaries and conditions of service for teaching staff following the recommendations made in the McCrone report. The main points of the agreement reached following the recommendations of the McCrone report were set out in the report by the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services. The report also proposed that a Working Group comprising Comhairle Officers and JCC Teaching Staff Members be established to quantify the implications of the McCrone Agreement and to make recommendations on the setting up of future local negotiating machinery.

It was agreed to note:

(1) the summary of the outcome of the McCrone Agreement; and

(2) the Education Department's intention to establish a Working Group comprising appropriate Comhairle Officers and members of the Joint Consultative Committee: Teaching Staff.

Establishment of Post of Depute Headteacher: New Lochs Area School

E02.94

48*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the establishment of the post of Depute Head Teacher of the new Lochs Area School. The background to the matter was outlined in the report.

It was agreed to recommend that the post of Depute Head Teacher of the new Lochs Area School be established with effect from 13 August 2001.

RELATED MATTERS

Children's Services Plan 2001/02 and 2003/04

E07

49*

The Democratic Services Manager sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw the item concerning the Children's Services Plan 2001/02 - 2002/2004.

School Catering: Service Improvement Plan

E07

50*

With reference to item 150 of the minute of meeting of 5 October 1999 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning progress to date following the return of the School Catering Contract to the Comhairle and requesting that members note the proposed Service Improvement Plan. The Service Improvement Plan was appended to the report.

It was agreed to note the Service Improvement Plan and progress to date with the School Catering Contract.

School Sports Co-ordinators

E07

51*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the introduction of the Schools Sports Co-ordinator Programme in the Western Isles. It was indicated in the report that the School Sport Co-ordinator Programme was a nationally funded initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the range and quality of extended curricular sporting provision in schools.

It was agreed to recommend that the implementation of the School Sports Co-ordinator programme into all secondary schools in the Western Isles be approved, subject to a detailed report outlining costs and the implementation process being presented to the Committee in August 2001.

Sale of Alcohol in Education Premises: Request for Exemption - Castlebay School

E07

52*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption from the ban on the sale of alcohol in the case of Castlebay School where a let of the premises to hold a fundraising ceilidh has been requested. It was indicated in the report that although the Comhairle's Scheme of School Lets allowed the consumption of alcohol on school premises in the context of lets, the actual sale of alcohol in school premises was not permitted. The report indicated that as there were no other suitable facilities in the area to hold the anticipated numbers who would attend this event, exemption from this ban was requested. It was also indicated that both the School Board and the School Management had no objection to this request.

Rev Andrew Coghill, seconded by Rev John Macleod, moved that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Castlebay School be refused.

Mr Iain Morrison, seconded by Mr Malcolm J Macleod, moved as an amendment that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Castlebay School be granted.

On the matter being put to the vote the motion received the majority of the votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.

Sale of Alcohol in Education Premises: Request for Exemption - Leverhulme Memorial School

E07

53*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a request from the South Harris Agricultural Association for an exemption from the ban on the sale of alcohol in the case of Leverhulme Memorial School where a let of the premises to hold the Agricultural Show Dance had been requested. It was indicated in the report that although the Comhairle's Scheme of School Lets allowed the consumption of alcohol on school premises in the context of lets, the actual sale of alcohol in school premises was not permitted. The report indicated that due to the rebuilding of the Leverburgh Village Hall and because there were no other suitable facilities in the area, exemption from the ban of the sale of alcohol on school premises was requested, for this event. It was also indicated that both the School Board and the School Management had no objection to this request.

Rev Andrew Coghill, seconded by Rev John Macleod, moved that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Leverhulme Memorial School be refused.

Mr Iain Morrison, seconded by Mr Malcolm J Macleod, moved as an amendment that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Leverhulme Memorial School be granted.

On the matter being put to the vote the motion received the majority of the votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.

Lochs Area School: Permanent Name

E02.94

54*

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the name of the new Lochs Area School in light of the recommendations by the Interim School Board that the name of the school be established as `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch'. It was indicated in the report that following a competition among pupils from the constituent schools organised by the Interim School Board the name `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch' was chosen.

It was agreed to recommend that the name of the new school currently under construction in Leurbost be called `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch'.

The Committee unanimously agreed, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, that the Committee determine the above recommendation, on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to allow the Acting Head Teacher of Leurbost School to order school uniforms for the start of the new school session in August 2001 on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.

Reports Outstanding: Progress

PR33.01.12

55

With reference to item 21 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Corporate Services submitted a report concerning reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Education Committee.

It was agreed to note the report.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS

The Chairman ruled in accordance with Standing Order 8 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order that any offer of payment would not be delayed.

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 defined in Standing Order 26(a), namely, that exempt information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office holder or former office holder, or applicant to become an office holder under, the Comhairle would be disclosed.

Claim for Conservation of Salary

E06

56

With reference to item 22 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking approval to negotiate additional interest in the settlement of the Court action for a teacher's claim for conservation of salary. The background to the matter was outlined in the report.

It was agreed that the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to negotiate and agree a level of interest in settlement of the court action of Mrs AYS against Western Isles Islands Council (sic), with reference to the terms of the report by the Director of Corporate Services.

The Chairman ruled in accordance with Standing Order 8 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order that the matter could be investigated and the results submitted to the next meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee.

Mr Roderick J Murray, having declared an interest, left the meeting during consideration of the following item.

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 defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, that information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.

Pre-Purchase Payment to Acair Limited

E07

57

The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning whether to make a pre-purchase payment from the Education budget in order to assist the short-term cash flow of Acair Ltd. The report referred to the Company's financial situation.

It was agreed that:

(1) the Director of Finance be requested to meet with Directors of Acair regarding their request for payment of the balance of the pre-purchase budget 2000/2001, in advance of Gaelic books/materials; and

(2) the outcome of the meeting in (1) above be reported to the next meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee on 24 April 2001.

___

PRESENT	Mr Norman L Macdonald (Chairman)
	Mrs Morag Munro (Vice-Chairman)	Mr Donald I Nicholson
	Mr Iain Morrison	Mr Finlay Morrison
	Mr Alexander A Macdonald	Rev Andrew Coghill
	Mr Roderick J Murray	Rev John Macleod
	Mr Murdo Macleod	Rev John A Galbraith
	Mr Philip R McLean	Dr Alan J F Fraser

APOLOGIES	Mr Ian M Macleod	Mr Donald M Mackay
	Mr Archie Campbell	Mr David Blaney

		TEACHING STAFF
The McCrone Report: "A Teaching Profession for the 21^st Century" E06	47*	With reference to item 14 of the minute of meeting of 1 February 2000 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the main aspects of the agreement reached in relation to salaries and conditions of service for teaching staff following the recommendations made in the McCrone report. The main points of the agreement reached following the recommendations of the McCrone report were set out in the report by the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services. The report also proposed that a Working Group comprising Comhairle Officers and JCC Teaching Staff Members be established to quantify the implications of the McCrone Agreement and to make recommendations on the setting up of future local negotiating machinery. It was agreed to note: (1) the summary of the outcome of the McCrone Agreement; and (2) the Education Department's intention to establish a Working Group comprising appropriate Comhairle Officers and members of the Joint Consultative Committee: Teaching Staff.
Establishment of Post of Depute Headteacher: New Lochs Area School E02.94	48*	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the establishment of the post of Depute Head Teacher of the new Lochs Area School. The background to the matter was outlined in the report. It was agreed to recommend that the post of Depute Head Teacher of the new Lochs Area School be established with effect from 13 August 2001.
		RELATED MATTERS
Children's Services Plan 2001/02 and 2003/04 E07	49*	The Democratic Services Manager sought and obtained the Chairman's permission to withdraw the item concerning the Children's Services Plan 2001/02 - 2002/2004.
School Catering: Service Improvement Plan E07	50*	With reference to item 150 of the minute of meeting of 5 October 1999 the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning progress to date following the return of the School Catering Contract to the Comhairle and requesting that members note the proposed Service Improvement Plan. The Service Improvement Plan was appended to the report. It was agreed to note the Service Improvement Plan and progress to date with the School Catering Contract.
School Sports Co-ordinators E07	51*	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the introduction of the Schools Sports Co-ordinator Programme in the Western Isles. It was indicated in the report that the School Sport Co-ordinator Programme was a nationally funded initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the range and quality of extended curricular sporting provision in schools. It was agreed to recommend that the implementation of the School Sports Co-ordinator programme into all secondary schools in the Western Isles be approved, subject to a detailed report outlining costs and the implementation process being presented to the Committee in August 2001.
Sale of Alcohol in Education Premises: Request for Exemption - Castlebay School E07	52*	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption from the ban on the sale of alcohol in the case of Castlebay School where a let of the premises to hold a fundraising ceilidh has been requested. It was indicated in the report that although the Comhairle's Scheme of School Lets allowed the consumption of alcohol on school premises in the context of lets, the actual sale of alcohol in school premises was not permitted. The report indicated that as there were no other suitable facilities in the area to hold the anticipated numbers who would attend this event, exemption from this ban was requested. It was also indicated that both the School Board and the School Management had no objection to this request. Rev Andrew Coghill, seconded by Rev John Macleod, moved that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Castlebay School be refused. Mr Iain Morrison, seconded by Mr Malcolm J Macleod, moved as an amendment that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Castlebay School be granted. On the matter being put to the vote the motion received the majority of the votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.
Sale of Alcohol in Education Premises: Request for Exemption - Leverhulme Memorial School E07	53*	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning a request from the South Harris Agricultural Association for an exemption from the ban on the sale of alcohol in the case of Leverhulme Memorial School where a let of the premises to hold the Agricultural Show Dance had been requested. It was indicated in the report that although the Comhairle's Scheme of School Lets allowed the consumption of alcohol on school premises in the context of lets, the actual sale of alcohol in school premises was not permitted. The report indicated that due to the rebuilding of the Leverburgh Village Hall and because there were no other suitable facilities in the area, exemption from the ban of the sale of alcohol on school premises was requested, for this event. It was also indicated that both the School Board and the School Management had no objection to this request. Rev Andrew Coghill, seconded by Rev John Macleod, moved that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Leverhulme Memorial School be refused. Mr Iain Morrison, seconded by Mr Malcolm J Macleod, moved as an amendment that the request from the Macmillan Cancer Relief Fundraising Committee for an exemption on an annual basis from the ban on the sale of alcohol in Leverhulme Memorial School be granted. On the matter being put to the vote the motion received the majority of the votes cast and it was agreed to recommend accordingly.
Lochs Area School: Permanent Name E02.94	54*	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning the name of the new Lochs Area School in light of the recommendations by the Interim School Board that the name of the school be established as `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch'. It was indicated in the report that following a competition among pupils from the constituent schools organised by the Interim School Board the name `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch' was chosen. It was agreed to recommend that the name of the new school currently under construction in Leurbost be called `Sgoil Sgire nan Loch'.
		The Committee unanimously agreed, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 17 of the Scheme of Administration, that the Committee determine the above recommendation, on behalf of the Comhairle, under delegated powers, in light of the need to allow the Acting Head Teacher of Leurbost School to order school uniforms for the start of the new school session in August 2001 on the basis that the recommendation was not contentious and did not breach a major policy position of the Comhairle.
Reports Outstanding: Progress PR33.01.12	55	With reference to item 21 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Corporate Services submitted a report concerning reports outstanding arising from decisions of the Education Committee. It was agreed to note the report.
		ADDITIONAL ITEMS
		The Chairman ruled in accordance with Standing Order 8 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order that any offer of payment would not be delayed.
		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 defined in Standing Order 26(a), namely, that exempt information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office holder or former office holder, or applicant to become an office holder under, the Comhairle would be disclosed.
Claim for Conservation of Salary E06	56	With reference to item 22 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Corporate Services submitted a report seeking approval to negotiate additional interest in the settlement of the Court action for a teacher's claim for conservation of salary. The background to the matter was outlined in the report. It was agreed that the Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services, in consultation with the Director of Finance and the Director of Corporate Services, be authorised to negotiate and agree a level of interest in settlement of the court action of Mrs AYS against Western Isles Islands Council (sic), with reference to the terms of the report by the Director of Corporate Services.
		The Chairman ruled in accordance with Standing Order 8 that the following item be considered as a matter of urgency in order that the matter could be investigated and the results submitted to the next meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee.
		Mr Roderick J Murray, having declared an interest, left the meeting during consideration of the following item.
		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 defined in Standing Order 26(f), namely, that information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person, other than the Comhairle, would be disclosed.
Pre-Purchase Payment to Acair Limited E07	57	The Acting Director of Education and Leisure Services submitted a report concerning whether to make a pre-purchase payment from the Education budget in order to assist the short-term cash flow of Acair Ltd. The report referred to the Company's financial situation. It was agreed that: (1) the Director of Finance be requested to meet with Directors of Acair regarding their request for payment of the balance of the pre-purchase budget 2000/2001, in advance of Gaelic books/materials; and (2) the outcome of the meeting in (1) above be reported to the next meeting of the Policy and Resources Committee on 24 April 2001.