First Minister Alex Salmond will be urged to intervene in the decision about the Lewis Windpower windfarm scheme, an informal meeting of Western Isles Councillors agreed today (Saturday 26th January).

The Comhairle will be writing to the First Minister in response to the news that Scottish Ministers are 'minded to refuse' consent for the scheme. The First Minister will also be invited to the Islands to hear at first hand how the windfarm project would benefit the Islands as well as assist in meeting the Government's renewables targets.

The Comhairle's Vice-Convener, Angus Campbell, is also meeting with Energy Minister Jim Mather on Monday to discuss Economic Development in the Islands.

Mr Campbell said: "The Comhairle will be working with the Enterprise Company, the Stornoway Trust and other agencies to make the Government aware of the importance of this one-off opportunity for the Western Isles. We will also be contacting Highland and Island list MSPs and asking them to work for the Islands on this critical issue. We have to see if we can make Scottish Ministers 'minded to grant'."

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk