Windfarm Public Inquiry ‘Worst Route’ |
12 July 2005 |
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The call for a public inquiy into a Western Isles windfarm application
is premature and ill advised says the Vice-Convener of Comhairle
nan Eilean Siar. The Scottish Executive has yet to consider the
Comhairle’s recommendations and the many representations. “I find it very disappointing that the MP has prejudged the position of the Scottish Executive and believe that he is is doing so either through political opportunism or naivety. To suggest that the only way of finding out the benefits and disadvantages of the windfarm project is through a public inquiry is absolute nonsense. Indeed it is an insult to the work and effort of the Comhairle staff, Members, Community Councils and ordinary people who have made representations . Has he read the extensive and detailed information that Councillors considered before reaching their decision? Did he attend the four days of presentations that were given to Councillors? A Public Inquiry would be the worst possible route for the Western Isles and I believe the vast majority of people would rather that a straight decision, one way or another, would be a preferable outcome rather than a Lingerbay type situation which could drag on for years and cost millions. We are already seeking efficiency savings simply to balance our current three year budget. The costs of a public inquiry would inevitably lead to cuts in frontline services. Mr. Macneill must be living in cloud cuckoo land if he believes that the Scottish Executive would pick up the costs of any such Inquiry. There would be considerable cost in both time and money to the Comhairle and the people of the Western Isles.” Nigel Scott Tel: 01851 709389 (Work) |
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