Comhairle nan Eilean Siar are going out to consultation on the future of secondary education with regard to the proposed closure of Bayble, Daliburgh Sgoil nan Loch, Paible, Shawbost, Lionel and Back Secondary Schools. The consultation is to be concluded by March 2009.

There will also be a full review of the entire Western Isles Schools Estate in respect of primary provision.

A meeting of the full Comhairle unanimously agreed last night to proceed with consultation on the S1/S2 schools, reversing a decision earlier in the day by the Education and Children’s Services Committee to defer the consultation programme pending discussions with the Scottish Executive.

Education Chairman Mrs Morag Munro said:

“I am pleased that we have unanimously agreed a way forward and that we on track with the new Schools Project. We face considerable challenges ahead – most notably the state of our school buildings, the falling school rolls and the impact of the new 3-18 curriculum. We are well aware of the potential concerns of parents, communities, staff and elected members and as Members and parents ourselves we understand those concerns. However I would like to reassure everyone that our aim is to provide the best possible educational provision for pupils in the Western Isles. That is the task we are engaged upon.”

The decision allows the Comhairle to proceed with the Western Isles Schools Project (PPP), the schools new build and refurbishment programme.

The Comhairle also agreed to urgently engage with the Scottish Executive on the best way forward for education in the Western Isles, to include further discussions relating to financial issues relating to the Western Isles Schools Project, and also for clear guidance on Curriculum for Excellence