May 2001

COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Tuesday 29 May 2001 at 2.00pm

PRESENT

Mr Norman L Macdonald (Chairman)

Mrs Morag Munro (Vice-Chairman)

Mr Iain Morrison

Mr Norman M Macleod

Mr Alexander A Macdonald

Mr Finlay Morrison

Mr Roderick J Murray

Mr Donald M Mackay

Mr Murdo Macleod

Mr Archie Campbell

Mr Philip R McLean

Mr David Blaney

APOLOGIES

Mr Malcolm J Macleod

Rev Andrew Coghill

Prayer

The meeting was opened with prayer led by Rev Donald A Macdonald.

CONSTITUTION

Election of Chairman

58

The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning the appointment of Chairman and Vice-Chairman.

The Principal Administrator chaired the meeting and called for nominations for Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.

It was agreed that the Scheme of Administration (paragraph 19(f)), be suspended.

Mr Murdo Macleod, seconded by Mr Norman M Macleod moved the election of Mr Norman L Macdonald.

There being no further nominations, the Principal Administrator declared Mr Norman L Macdonald duly elected as Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.

Election of Vice-Chairman

59

The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning the appointment of Chairman and Vice-Chairman.

The Chairman called for nominations for Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.

It was agreed that the Scheme of Administration (paragraph 19(f)), be suspended.

Mr Archie Campbell, seconded by Mr Alex Macdonald moved the election of Mrs Morag Munro.

There being no further nominations, the Chairman declared Mrs Morag Munro duly elected as Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.

Tribute: The Nicolson Institute Boys and Girls Under 14 & Under 16 Football Teams

The Chairman referred to The Nicolson Institute's Under 14 and Under 16 Boys and Girls Football Teams, who had won the North of Scotland Cup in each of their categories, commenting that to bring four cups for North of Scotland wide competitions back to the School in the space of two weeks was outstanding. On behalf of the Committee, the Chairman congratulated the staff and the pupils.

Tribute: Adam Hadidi

The Chairman referred to Adam Hadidi, a pupil at The Nicolson Institute, who had competed in the Under 20 National Athletics Team for Scotland in Greece.

Tribute: Donald Macneil

The Chairman referred to the tragedy in Barra when an accident had claimed the life of a fourth year pupil in Castlebay School, Donald Macneil. On behalf of the Committee, the Chairman extended sympathy and condolences to Mr and Mrs Macneil and the family in their bereavement.

Tribute: Mr Murdo Macleod

The Chairman welcomed Mr Murdo Macleod to his first meeting in his new post of Director of Education.

MINUTES

Education Committee

60*

The Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 was approved, subject to the following amendment: at Apologies, insert Mr Norman M Macleod.

Arising from item 40 of the above minute it was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education write to MSPs and the Scottish Executive to ensure that all the materials which were ready and completed for Higher Still courses are distributed.

Education Sub-Committee

61

The Minute of Meeting of the Education Sub-Committee of 25 April 2001 was noted.

Gaelic Development Sub-Committee

62

The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 29 March 2001 was approved.

FINANCE

Non-Housing Capital Monitoring 1 April 2001 - 31 March 2001

63*

With reference to item 8 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 January 2001, the Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the Comhairle for the period 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2001, for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. It was intimated in the Report that the actual net expenditure for 2000/2001 was £14,722,000, some £933,000 below the December revised approved Programme for 2000/2001, in the sum of £15,715,000. Appended to the Report was a summary of the total expenditure for the 2000/01 financial year and estimated expenditure for 2001/02 to 2002/03. A summary of the variations which had occurred within the Programme of Capital Expenditure for 2000/01 was set out in the Report.

It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the Comhairle note the final expenditure incurred in respect of the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2001 and approve the slippage and acceleration to/from the 2001/2002 initial committed Programme, specifically that:

(i) £25k be transferred from the External Fabric Repairs project at Stornoway Town Hall to fund the internal repainting of the Town Hall;

(ii) additional expenditure of £6,000, to be funded from estimated future levels of slippage, be allocated to the West Side Slipway Project; and

(ii) capital fees be posted to the financial ledger on a monthly basis, or on at least a quarterly basis.

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Corporate Strategy: Consultative Draft

64*

The Chief Executive submitted a Report asking Service Committees to comment on the consultative draft Corporate Strategy.

It was agreed to recommend that any comments agreed as a response from the Service Committees be passed to the Chief Executive for inclusion in the finalised Corporate Strategy.

BUILDINGS

Capital Works: Programme and Progress

E03

65

With reference to item 29 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 March 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.

Feasibility of Future Development: Sir E Scott School

66

With reference to item 10 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education and the Director of Technical Services submitted a joint Report, on behalf of the Sir E Scott School Member/Officer Working Group, seeking Members approval to prepare a PIR for this Scheme and to determine the views of the Committee on an alternative procurement route. The various stages of the construction sequence were outlined in the report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) Option 1 of the Feasibility Report of the joint Report by the Directors of Technical Services and Education, be approved;

(2) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to acquire all the necessary land for the project;

(3) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to explore the option of the partnering arrangement with suitable contractors for this project;

(4) the funding option C dated 25 May 2001, as detailed in the Joint Report by the Director of Technical Services and Education, be approved, excluding the top-up funding of £1.2m;

(5) the Director of Technical Services proceed to demolish HORSA buildings at the site;

(6) representations be made by the Director of Education to the Scottish Executive for special additional funding for the project; and

(7) the total funding required for the project, as recommended above, be included in the PIR bid for April 2002-2004, to progress the project to completion.

Energy Efficiency Capital Programme

E03

67*

The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for energy efficiency improvements in Education premises. The proposals for energy efficiency improvements, as detailed in the report, were as follows: insulation and draught proofing, installation of low energy lighting and installation of controls for heating and ventilation systems.

It was agreed to recommend that the remaining £33K available in the Capital Programme for 2001/02 for Energy Efficiency Improvements in Education Premises, be used for:

(1) loft insulation at Lionel School, Leverhulme Memorial School, Berneray School and Eoligarry School (£18K);

(2) installing hot water controls at Eoligarry School (£3K);

(3) installing modem links to the BEMS Controls at Barvas, Uig, Pairc, Tolsta and Breasclete Schools using automatic switches to share the existing fax lines (£6K); and

(4) high efficiency lighting upgrade at Back School (£6K).

Water Services Improvements Programme

E03

68*

With reference to item 53 of the minute of meeting of 31 May 2000 the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for the Water Services Upgrading Programme. It was indicated in the report that the Health and Safety Executive had issued the third edition of the Approved Code of Practice for the Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems. The Approved Code of Practice requires a risk assessment to be carried out for all water systems in which there is a foreseeable risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) £10K be used to install new cold water storage tanks at Paible and Iochdar Schools. The tanks were purchased as part of the 2000/01 programme;

(2) £10K be used to replace further sections of copper hot water pipework with stainless steel at Sgoil Lionaclete;

(3) a quotation be obtained by the Director of Technical Services from specialist contractors Aquazur to carry out surveys and risk assessments in a number of schools and that the sum of £10K be reserved for this; and

(4) the remaining £10K be reserved to carry out high priority works identified by the above survey.

Member/Officer Working Group for Bayble New School

E08

69*

The Director of Education submitted a Report proposing the formation of a Member/Officer Working Group to assist progress of the refurbishment of Bayble School.

It was agreed to recommend that a Working Group be established to assist the progress of the refurbishment of Bayble School, comprising Mr Norman M Macleod, Mr Donald J Macsween and Mr Donald I Nicholson together with officers to be appointed.

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.

Mr Norman M Macleod declared an interest in the following item and withdrew from the meeting during discussion of the item.

Future Use of Former Haldane Hostel Site

E02

70*

With reference to item 16 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a Joint Report seeking Members' views on the disposal of the former Haldane Hostel Site, Church Street, Stornoway. The report detailed the various expressions of interest which had been received in respect of the former Haldane Hostel site.

It was agreed to recommend that the former Haldane site be transferred with immediate affect to the Housing Department for the purpose of a possible housing development.

Future Use of Leurbost Old School

E02

71*

The Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members authorisation to transfer Leurbost School to the Department of Housing following closure of the school in June 2001.

It was agreed to recommend that the proposed transfer of Leurbost School to the Department of Housing, following closure of the school in June 2001 be put to consultation within the local community.

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.

Future Use of former Stockinish Schoolhouse

E02

72*

The Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members views on the possible disposal of the former Stockinish schoolhouse.

It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to establish the extent and nature of other community interest in acquiring the property and submit a further report to the Committee.

Future Use of Fidigarry Old School

E02

73*

The Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a joint Report seeking members authorisation to offer the Fidigarry school building for sale following closure of the school in June 2001.

It was agreed to recommend that, the proposal that following the closure of Fidigarry School in June 2001, the School be advertised on the open market with offers being sought which specify the proposed future use, as well as price, be put to consultation within the local community.

Future Use of Knockiandue Old School

E02

74*

The Director of Education and the Depute Director of Leisure Services submitted a joint Report seeking Members authorisation to transfer Knockiandue School to the Department for Sustainable Communities following closure of the school in June 2001 .

It was agreed to recommend that the proposal that Knockiandue School be transferred to the Department for Sustainable Communities, following its closure in June 2001, be put to consultation within the local community.

Future Use of Lochboisdale Old School and Schoolhouse

E02

75*

The Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Service submitted a joint Report seeking Members authorisation to offer the former school and schoolhouse at Lochboisdale for sale.

It was agreed to recommend that Lochboisdale Old School and Schoolhouse be advertised on the open market with offers being sought which specify the proposed future use as well as price.

Proposed West-Side Primary School: Site Assessment Report

E02

76*

The Director of Education submitted a Report informing Members of the results of surveys undertaken for the building of a new school between Barvas and Airidhantuim and to seek Members approval to conditionally acquire the land. The report contained a sites assessment comparison of the two sites identified. A site locations map was appended to the report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the location for the proposed new West Side Primary School be the Upper Barvas site contained in the Site Locations Map; and

(2) the Director of Education take action to conditionally purchase the Upper Barvas site, subject to funding for the main project being secured.

EDUCATIONAL PROVISION

Educational Provision: Review of Secondary Department of Eriskay School Consultation Meeting

E01

77*

With reference to item 39 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report outlining proposals to close the Secondary Department of Eriskay School with e ffect from the end of the current session on the basis of the information circulated to parents, School Boards and other interested parties and in the light of the discussions arising at the Consultation Meeting held on 21 May 2001 and written responses received in connection with the proposed closure. The Consultation Document, dated May 2001 and a note of the consultation meeting and written submissions were appended to the report.

It was agreed to recommend that following consideration of the representations made in response to the consultation document the secondary department of Eriskay School be closed on 29 June 2001 on the basis of Sgoil Lionacleit being designated the receiving school and the matter be referred to the Scottish Executive for approval.

Scottish Qualifications Authority Certification 2001

E01

78

With reference to item 42 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report updating Members on the situation regarding the SQA Certification for 2001. The steps taken by the Scottish Qualifications Agency to ensure that the 2001 examination procedures run smoothly were outlined in the report.

It was agreed to note:

(1) the information available from SEED and SQA; and

(2) that further Reports on progress will be reported to Committee.

Pre-School Development Grant Funding 2001/2002

E01.02.06

79*

With reference to item 17 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members approval of initial proposals for disbursement of SEED Pre-School Development Grant funding for 2001/2002. It was detailed in the report that the main purpose of the grant was to develop new pre-school and 3 year old education places.

It was agreed to recommend:

(1) approval of the provisional reservation of £50K Development Grant funding for development of new pre-school facilities at Castlebay, pending announcement of a decision on their Lottery application; and

(2) in the event of slippage, consideration be given to awarding assistance to Croileagan Scalpaigh and then Croileagan Lacasdail as set out in the Report by the Director of Education.

Gaelic Specific Grants 2002/2003 - Submission of Bid

E01

80*

With reference to item 45 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking approval for this Authority's bid under the Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education to the Scottish Executive Education Department for financial year 2002/2003. The Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education for 2002/2003 was appended to the report.

It was agreed to:

(1) recommend approval of the submission, as detailed in the Report by the Director of Education to the Arts and Cultural Heritage Division, Scottish Executive Education Department, within the Regulations governing the Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education, in respect of the financial year 2002-2003; and

(2) note the requirement in an additional sum of £10,858 in the Education budget 2002/2003, to be dealt with in the context of budget considerations later in the year.

RELATED MATTERS

Further Education and Higher School Bursaries 2002/03

E01.05.04

81*

With reference to item 64 of the minute of meeting of 31 May 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking approval for application of bursary rates for the system of calculating and awarding Higher School Bursaries and Further Education Bursaries for the academic session 2001/2002. The proposed bursary rates and scales for the session 2001/2002 were appended to the report.

It was agreed to:

(1) recommend approval, for sessions 2001/2002, of the continued use of the system for the calculation and award of Further Education and Higher School Bursaries adopted as Council Policy on 30 May 2000, with the exception of the bursary rates and scales detailed in Appendix A to the Report by the Director of Education; and

(2) note that a further Report will be submitted to the Committee in December 2001, following a review of the Scottish Further Education Funding Council Guidelines.

Special Needs Transport Integration

E05.01

82*

With reference to item 105 of the minute of meeting of 3 October 2000 the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning extending the scope of the Joint Education and Transportation Committee to cover special needs transport by including representation from the Social Work Committee.

It was agreed to recommend that the membership of the existing Education and Transportation Joint Sub-Committee should be extended to include two representatives from Social Work Committee, prior to considering the future of the integration of the special needs transport.

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 have the matter determined prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle.

Golden Jubilee Bank Holiday - Length of the 2001/2002 School Year

E07

83

The Director of Education submitted a Report informing Members of the optional Golden Jubilee Bank Holiday in terms of the information set out in Appendix A to the Report.

It was agreed to recommend that:

(1) the Comhairle does not submit an application to the Scottish Ministers to reduce the 2001/2002 school session from 190 days to 189 days; and

(2) individual schools wishing to observe the Bank Holiday on 3 June 2002, should allocate one of the flexible local holidays for this purpose.

PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Reports Outstanding: Progress

PR33.01.12

84

With reference to item 55 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 March 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 by the Director of Corporate Services.

Arising from consideration of the above item it was agreed that the Director of Education and the Chief Executive submit a joint Report on how small repairs can best be made in schools including the possible introduction of a handyman service.

___

PRESENT	Mr Norman L Macdonald (Chairman)
	Mrs Morag Munro (Vice-Chairman)
	Mr Iain Morrison	Mr Norman M Macleod
	Mr Alexander A Macdonald	Mr Finlay Morrison
	Mr Roderick J Murray	Mr Donald M Mackay
	Mr Murdo Macleod	Mr Archie Campbell
	Mr Philip R McLean	Mr David Blaney

APOLOGIES	Mr Malcolm J Macleod	Rev Andrew Coghill

Prayer		The meeting was opened with prayer led by Rev Donald A Macdonald.
		CONSTITUTION
Election of Chairman	58	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning the appointment of Chairman and Vice-Chairman. The Principal Administrator chaired the meeting and called for nominations for Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002. It was agreed that the Scheme of Administration (paragraph 19(f)), be suspended. Mr Murdo Macleod, seconded by Mr Norman M Macleod moved the election of Mr Norman L Macdonald. There being no further nominations, the Principal Administrator declared Mr Norman L Macdonald duly elected as Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.
Election of Vice-Chairman	59	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning the appointment of Chairman and Vice-Chairman. The Chairman called for nominations for Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002. It was agreed that the Scheme of Administration (paragraph 19(f)), be suspended. Mr Archie Campbell, seconded by Mr Alex Macdonald moved the election of Mrs Morag Munro. There being no further nominations, the Chairman declared Mrs Morag Munro duly elected as Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the period to 27 August 2002.
Tribute: The Nicolson Institute Boys and Girls Under 14 & Under 16 Football Teams		The Chairman referred to The Nicolson Institute's Under 14 and Under 16 Boys and Girls Football Teams, who had won the North of Scotland Cup in each of their categories, commenting that to bring four cups for North of Scotland wide competitions back to the School in the space of two weeks was outstanding. On behalf of the Committee, the Chairman congratulated the staff and the pupils.
Tribute: Adam Hadidi		The Chairman referred to Adam Hadidi, a pupil at The Nicolson Institute, who had competed in the Under 20 National Athletics Team for Scotland in Greece.
Tribute: Donald Macneil		The Chairman referred to the tragedy in Barra when an accident had claimed the life of a fourth year pupil in Castlebay School, Donald Macneil. On behalf of the Committee, the Chairman extended sympathy and condolences to Mr and Mrs Macneil and the family in their bereavement.
Tribute: Mr Murdo Macleod		The Chairman welcomed Mr Murdo Macleod to his first meeting in his new post of Director of Education.
		MINUTES
Education Committee	60*	The Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 was approved, subject to the following amendment: at Apologies, insert Mr Norman M Macleod. Arising from item 40 of the above minute it was agreed to recommend that the Director of Education write to MSPs and the Scottish Executive to ensure that all the materials which were ready and completed for Higher Still courses are distributed.
Education Sub-Committee	61	The Minute of Meeting of the Education Sub-Committee of 25 April 2001 was noted.
Gaelic Development Sub-Committee	62	The Minute of Meeting of the Gaelic Development Sub-Committee of 29 March 2001 was approved.
		FINANCE
Non-Housing Capital Monitoring 1 April 2001 - 31 March 2001	63*	With reference to item 8 of the Minute of Meeting of 30 January 2001, the Director of Finance submitted a Report regarding the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the Comhairle for the period 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2001, for all services except the Housing Revenue Account. It was intimated in the Report that the actual net expenditure for 2000/2001 was £14,722,000, some £933,000 below the December revised approved Programme for 2000/2001, in the sum of £15,715,000. Appended to the Report was a summary of the total expenditure for the 2000/01 financial year and estimated expenditure for 2001/02 to 2002/03. A summary of the variations which had occurred within the Programme of Capital Expenditure for 2000/01 was set out in the Report. It was agreed to recommend, insofar as the Committee's interest was concerned, that the Comhairle note the final expenditure incurred in respect of the Programme of Capital Expenditure for the period 1 April 2000 to 31 March 2001 and approve the slippage and acceleration to/from the 2001/2002 initial committed Programme, specifically that: (i) £25k be transferred from the External Fabric Repairs project at Stornoway Town Hall to fund the internal repainting of the Town Hall; (ii) additional expenditure of £6,000, to be funded from estimated future levels of slippage, be allocated to the West Side Slipway Project; and (ii) capital fees be posted to the financial ledger on a monthly basis, or on at least a quarterly basis.

		BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
Corporate Strategy: Consultative Draft	64*	The Chief Executive submitted a Report asking Service Committees to comment on the consultative draft Corporate Strategy. It was agreed to recommend that any comments agreed as a response from the Service Committees be passed to the Chief Executive for inclusion in the finalised Corporate Strategy.
		BUILDINGS
Capital Works: Programme and Progress E03	65	With reference to item 29 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 March 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.
Feasibility of Future Development: Sir E Scott School	66	With reference to item 10 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education and the Director of Technical Services submitted a joint Report, on behalf of the Sir E Scott School Member/Officer Working Group, seeking Members approval to prepare a PIR for this Scheme and to determine the views of the Committee on an alternative procurement route. The various stages of the construction sequence were outlined in the report. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) Option 1 of the Feasibility Report of the joint Report by the Directors of Technical Services and Education, be approved; (2) the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to acquire all the necessary land for the project; (3) the Director of Technical Services be authorised to explore the option of the partnering arrangement with suitable contractors for this project; (4) the funding option C dated 25 May 2001, as detailed in the Joint Report by the Director of Technical Services and Education, be approved, excluding the top-up funding of £1.2m; (5) the Director of Technical Services proceed to demolish HORSA buildings at the site; (6) representations be made by the Director of Education to the Scottish Executive for special additional funding for the project; and (7) the total funding required for the project, as recommended above, be included in the PIR bid for April 2002-2004, to progress the project to completion.
Energy Efficiency Capital Programme E03	67*	The Director of Technical Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for energy efficiency improvements in Education premises. The proposals for energy efficiency improvements, as detailed in the report, were as follows: insulation and draught proofing, installation of low energy lighting and installation of controls for heating and ventilation systems. It was agreed to recommend that the remaining £33K available in the Capital Programme for 2001/02 for Energy Efficiency Improvements in Education Premises, be used for: (1) loft insulation at Lionel School, Leverhulme Memorial School, Berneray School and Eoligarry School (£18K); (2) installing hot water controls at Eoligarry School (£3K); (3) installing modem links to the BEMS Controls at Barvas, Uig, Pairc, Tolsta and Breasclete Schools using automatic switches to share the existing fax lines (£6K); and (4) high efficiency lighting upgrade at Back School (£6K).
Water Services Improvements Programme E03	68*	With reference to item 53 of the minute of meeting of 31 May 2000 the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report outlining proposals for the Water Services Upgrading Programme. It was indicated in the report that the Health and Safety Executive had issued the third edition of the Approved Code of Practice for the Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems. The Approved Code of Practice requires a risk assessment to be carried out for all water systems in which there is a foreseeable risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) £10K be used to install new cold water storage tanks at Paible and Iochdar Schools. The tanks were purchased as part of the 2000/01 programme; (2) £10K be used to replace further sections of copper hot water pipework with stainless steel at Sgoil Lionaclete; (3) a quotation be obtained by the Director of Technical Services from specialist contractors Aquazur to carry out surveys and risk assessments in a number of schools and that the sum of £10K be reserved for this; and (4) the remaining £10K be reserved to carry out high priority works identified by the above survey.
Member/Officer Working Group for Bayble New School E08	69*	The Director of Education submitted a Report proposing the formation of a Member/Officer Working Group to assist progress of the refurbishment of Bayble School. It was agreed to recommend that a Working Group be established to assist the progress of the refurbishment of Bayble School, comprising Mr Norman M Macleod, Mr Donald J Macsween and Mr Donald I Nicholson together with officers to be appointed.
		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.

		Mr Norman M Macleod declared an interest in the following item and withdrew from the meeting during discussion of the item.
Future Use of Former Haldane Hostel Site E02	70*	With reference to item 16 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a Joint Report seeking Members' views on the disposal of the former Haldane Hostel Site, Church Street, Stornoway. The report detailed the various expressions of interest which had been received in respect of the former Haldane Hostel site. It was agreed to recommend that the former Haldane site be transferred with immediate affect to the Housing Department for the purpose of a possible housing development.
Future Use of Leurbost Old School E02	71*	The Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members authorisation to transfer Leurbost School to the Department of Housing following closure of the school in June 2001. It was agreed to recommend that the proposed transfer of Leurbost School to the Department of Housing, following closure of the school in June 2001 be put to consultation within the local community.
		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.
Future Use of former Stockinish Schoolhouse E02	72*	The Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members views on the possible disposal of the former Stockinish schoolhouse. It was agreed to recommend that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised to establish the extent and nature of other community interest in acquiring the property and submit a further report to the Committee.
Future Use of Fidigarry Old School E02	73*	The Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Services submitted a joint Report seeking members authorisation to offer the Fidigarry school building for sale following closure of the school in June 2001. It was agreed to recommend that, the proposal that following the closure of Fidigarry School in June 2001, the School be advertised on the open market with offers being sought which specify the proposed future use, as well as price, be put to consultation within the local community.
Future Use of Knockiandue Old School E02	74*	The Director of Education and the Depute Director of Leisure Services submitted a joint Report seeking Members authorisation to transfer Knockiandue School to the Department for Sustainable Communities following closure of the school in June 2001 . It was agreed to recommend that the proposal that Knockiandue School be transferred to the Department for Sustainable Communities, following its closure in June 2001, be put to consultation within the local community.
Future Use of Lochboisdale Old School and Schoolhouse E02	75*	The Director of Education and the Director of Corporate Service submitted a joint Report seeking Members authorisation to offer the former school and schoolhouse at Lochboisdale for sale. It was agreed to recommend that Lochboisdale Old School and Schoolhouse be advertised on the open market with offers being sought which specify the proposed future use as well as price.
Proposed West-Side Primary School: Site Assessment Report E02	76*	The Director of Education submitted a Report informing Members of the results of surveys undertaken for the building of a new school between Barvas and Airidhantuim and to seek Members approval to conditionally acquire the land. The report contained a sites assessment comparison of the two sites identified. A site locations map was appended to the report. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the location for the proposed new West Side Primary School be the Upper Barvas site contained in the Site Locations Map; and (2) the Director of Education take action to conditionally purchase the Upper Barvas site, subject to funding for the main project being secured.
		EDUCATIONAL PROVISION
Educational Provision: Review of Secondary Department of Eriskay School Consultation Meeting E01	77*	With reference to item 39 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report outlining proposals to close the Secondary Department of Eriskay School with e ffect from the end of the current session on the basis of the information circulated to parents, School Boards and other interested parties and in the light of the discussions arising at the Consultation Meeting held on 21 May 2001 and written responses received in connection with the proposed closure. The Consultation Document, dated May 2001 and a note of the consultation meeting and written submissions were appended to the report. It was agreed to recommend that following consideration of the representations made in response to the consultation document the secondary department of Eriskay School be closed on 29 June 2001 on the basis of Sgoil Lionacleit being designated the receiving school and the matter be referred to the Scottish Executive for approval.
Scottish Qualifications Authority Certification 2001 E01	78	With reference to item 42 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report updating Members on the situation regarding the SQA Certification for 2001. The steps taken by the Scottish Qualifications Agency to ensure that the 2001 examination procedures run smoothly were outlined in the report. It was agreed to note: (1) the information available from SEED and SQA; and (2) that further Reports on progress will be reported to Committee.
Pre-School Development Grant Funding 2001/2002 E01.02.06	79*	With reference to item 17 of the minute of meeting of 30 January 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking Members approval of initial proposals for disbursement of SEED Pre-School Development Grant funding for 2001/2002. It was detailed in the report that the main purpose of the grant was to develop new pre-school and 3 year old education places. It was agreed to recommend: (1) approval of the provisional reservation of £50K Development Grant funding for development of new pre-school facilities at Castlebay, pending announcement of a decision on their Lottery application; and (2) in the event of slippage, consideration be given to awarding assistance to Croileagan Scalpaigh and then Croileagan Lacasdail as set out in the Report by the Director of Education.
Gaelic Specific Grants 2002/2003 - Submission of Bid E01	80*	With reference to item 45 of the minute of meeting of 27 March 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking approval for this Authority's bid under the Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education to the Scottish Executive Education Department for financial year 2002/2003. The Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education for 2002/2003 was appended to the report. It was agreed to: (1) recommend approval of the submission, as detailed in the Report by the Director of Education to the Arts and Cultural Heritage Division, Scottish Executive Education Department, within the Regulations governing the Scheme of Specific Grants for Gaelic Education, in respect of the financial year 2002-2003; and (2) note the requirement in an additional sum of £10,858 in the Education budget 2002/2003, to be dealt with in the context of budget considerations later in the year.
		RELATED MATTERS
Further Education and Higher School Bursaries 2002/03 E01.05.04	81*	With reference to item 64 of the minute of meeting of 31 May 2001 the Director of Education submitted a Report seeking approval for application of bursary rates for the system of calculating and awarding Higher School Bursaries and Further Education Bursaries for the academic session 2001/2002. The proposed bursary rates and scales for the session 2001/2002 were appended to the report. It was agreed to: (1) recommend approval, for sessions 2001/2002, of the continued use of the system for the calculation and award of Further Education and Higher School Bursaries adopted as Council Policy on 30 May 2000, with the exception of the bursary rates and scales detailed in Appendix A to the Report by the Director of Education; and (2) note that a further Report will be submitted to the Committee in December 2001, following a review of the Scottish Further Education Funding Council Guidelines.
Special Needs Transport Integration E05.01	82*	With reference to item 105 of the minute of meeting of 3 October 2000 the Director of Technical Services submitted a Report concerning extending the scope of the Joint Education and Transportation Committee to cover special needs transport by including representation from the Social Work Committee. It was agreed to recommend that the membership of the existing Education and Transportation Joint Sub-Committee should be extended to include two representatives from Social Work Committee, prior to considering the future of the integration of the special needs transport.
		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 have the matter determined prior to the next meeting of the Comhairle.
Golden Jubilee Bank Holiday - Length of the 2001/2002 School Year E07	83	The Director of Education submitted a Report informing Members of the optional Golden Jubilee Bank Holiday in terms of the information set out in Appendix A to the Report. It was agreed to recommend that: (1) the Comhairle does not submit an application to the Scottish Ministers to reduce the 2001/2002 school session from 190 days to 189 days; and (2) individual schools wishing to observe the Bank Holiday on 3 June 2002, should allocate one of the flexible local holidays for this purpose.
		PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Reports Outstanding: Progress PR33.01.12	84	With reference to item 55 of the Minute of Meeting of 27 March 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 by the Director of Corporate Services. Arising from consideration of the above item it was agreed that the Director of Education and the Chief Executive submit a joint Report on how small repairs can best be made in schools including the possible introduction of a handyman service.