News release
Immediate release
04/12/08
SNP MSP Rob Gibson has used a debate on the economy in the Scottish Parliament to crisiticse the missed opportunity from the UK Government to reduce VAT rates for the construction industry to 5%.
The Highlands and Islands member said that a reduction to 5% would help stimulate the industry and would also help home owners make improvements to their properties.
Speaking in Parliament Mr Gibson chastised the Labour UK Government for not implementing the change….
"We are told that the construction industry wanted the UK Government to look at VAT to help house building, but why did it (the Labour UK Government) ignore the industry's calls to reduce VAT to 5 per cent to enable repairs and retrofitting of climate change protection for homes to take place? London's VAT cut was just a last-minute fix. The UK Government was not interested in using that fiscal tool to help our construction industry get back on its feet."
Following on from the debate a delegation from the Highland construction industry visited the Parliament to raise the issue of hundreds of jobs losses in the industry. Mr Gibson called on the body to support SNP calls for a VAT reduction for the industry so that it could help kick start in the Highlands and Scotland.
During the debate MR Gibson also said that cuts from the UK Government were going to be worse predicted and that ….
"The pre-budget report confirmed that the depth of the debt crisis that we are entering is unprecedented and that the future cuts in Scottish funding from the Treasury will be far bigger than the £500 million that has been discussed." "Facing up to the challenge of trying to get Scotland back on to the front foot will require an enormous amount of ingenuity. As Alf Young said last week in The Herald, the cuts will be deeper than anyone realises at present. As my colleague Alex Neil pointed out, the cuts could amount to another £3 billion between 2010 and 2014. Public spending, which is the prime driver of the economy in Scotland, is being attacked."
Friday, 5 December 2008
Gibson expresses support for Woolworth staff
News release
Immediate release
27/11/08
Highlands and Islands has expressed support for the staff at Woolworths throughout the region following news that the century old store had called in administrators.
Mr Gibson said….
"Woolworths is part of the fabric of High Streets from Dingwall to Wick. It has been a fixture surviving many recessions and changing times.
" The timing of the announcement is cruel. It must be very worrying for the staff in the run up to Christmas. I sincerely hope that a rescue package can be found that will safeguard jobs."
"I further hope that a potential buyer can be found who can save this high street institution. If Woolies is allowed to go then it could signal the start of a bleak recession for small towns through-out the region and the country."
ENDS
Immediate release
27/11/08
Highlands and Islands has expressed support for the staff at Woolworths throughout the region following news that the century old store had called in administrators.
Mr Gibson said….
"Woolworths is part of the fabric of High Streets from Dingwall to Wick. It has been a fixture surviving many recessions and changing times.
" The timing of the announcement is cruel. It must be very worrying for the staff in the run up to Christmas. I sincerely hope that a rescue package can be found that will safeguard jobs."
"I further hope that a potential buyer can be found who can save this high street institution. If Woolies is allowed to go then it could signal the start of a bleak recession for small towns through-out the region and the country."
ENDS
Gibson welcomes Wick marina funding package
News release
Immediate release
04/12/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a funding package for the development of a marina in Wick harbour.
The funding package will consist of grants and loans from HIE totaling £576,000.
Mr Gibson said....
"Wick marina is a part of a string of pearls. Yachting holidays are increasingly popular along our coasts. The development of a marina in the harbour will make a real difference to the town.
"Wick can now expect far more visitors including those from our Scandinavian neighbours. The HIE funding package is great news."
ENDS
Immediate release
04/12/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a funding package for the development of a marina in Wick harbour.
The funding package will consist of grants and loans from HIE totaling £576,000.
Mr Gibson said....
"Wick marina is a part of a string of pearls. Yachting holidays are increasingly popular along our coasts. The development of a marina in the harbour will make a real difference to the town.
"Wick can now expect far more visitors including those from our Scandinavian neighbours. The HIE funding package is great news."
ENDS
Friday, 28 November 2008
GIBSON REVEALS HOMETIME SONG
For immediate release
Monday, November 24, 2008
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has told housing charity Shelter which song reminds him of home
The Song that he choose was Indiana written by Highland songwriter/musician (and good friend of Rob's) Andy Mitchell.
The song was written by Andy when he was living in Ullapool. It is about the imminent return to Scotland/Ullapool of two friends of Andy who had emigrated to the USA years previously. He wrote a song to see it from their point of view.
Rob said…
"This song is the perfect encapsulation of what home means to me. It talks about people returning home, the pull of home in the face of reasons for staying elsewhere. It is about people wanting to bring up their children in their own land of roots and personal connections as opposed to material riches in a different country. It reminds us that Scotland has plenty of land and too many planning restrictions that stop Scots living in their own country."
Mr Gibson joined other MSP's and over 4,000 people in signing up to the charity’s Hometime Scotland campaign.
Shelter revealed the top song that reminds the public of home at the special handover event outside Parliament. From the 4,000 songs logged by the charity over the summer months, the number one choice was The Proclaimer’s foot stomping ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)’.
Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness charity, made the announcement as he handed the thousands of song postcards to Nicola Sturgeon, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing.
The postcards are all in support of the charity’s Hometime Scotland campaign, which was launched in July, to ensure Scotland delivers on the internationally acclaimed 2012 homelessness target (2). Support has also been registered online at www.hometimescotland.org.uk
Scottish party political leaders and other MSPs from across Scotland are among those to have told Shelter what song that reminds them of home.
Scottish singer KT Tunstall, rock band Idlewild, and DJ Calvin Harris are also among those to tell the charity what song reminds them of home. Support for the campaign has also come from Scottish folk legend, Dougie MacLean, whose song ‘Caledonia’, was in second place in the Hometime Scotland song poll.
The Proclaimers said: "We'd be the ones who'd walk 500 miles to make sure that everyone in Scotland has a home. Having a house is an inherent right for people and one they shouldn't have to fight for, or fork out more than they can afford. We're delighted to be the top Hometime Scotland song and the one that reminds people of home. It's an honour."
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “In this, the 40th year of Shelter Scotland, the Hometime Scotland campaign underlines the need to provide the unintentionally homeless with settled accommodation, which can be a base for themselves and their family.
“Homelessness is a blight on Scottish society and at odds with our ambition to build a modern, successful economy. This Government’s commitment to the homelessness 2012 target is unwavering, as are our ambitions for housing more generally.”
Shelter director Graeme Brown said: “If the 2012 homelessness target seems like 500 miles away, then we’re about 250 miles towards meeting it right now. But we need to pick up speed to travel the extra distance. Our next hurdle is the 2009/10 budget. We need to see increased cash for housing through that budget to ensure housing for all. We know times are tough just now but a home is a right, not a luxury.”
ENDS
CONTACT: Christina Cran, Nicola Baxter (shelter) 0844 515 2442 (connects to out of hours)
NOTE TO EDITORS
Lyrics to Indiana
by Andy Mitchell
Fare thee well, now, Indiana, your green land has been good to me.
There I traveled, there I settled, there I raised up my family.
But the cord has never severed, and the longing each day it has grown.
So, tomorrow, I'll be leaving for the land that I call my home.
All my friends say that I'm crazy, going back to such poverty,
America is, so they say now, the land of opportunity.
But the shy hare runs so swiftly and the heron slowly flies.
These are treasures from my homeland that all your money can never buy.
As our ship lies in the harbor, I shall look back on your shore.
And I'll feel sadness that I'm leaving your green land forever more.
But as our ship lies on the ocean and each day we are out on the sea.
All the dreams I've had for years now, drawing nearer reality.
Fare-thee-well, now, Indiana, your green land has been good to me.
There I traveled, there I settled, there I raised up my family.
But the cord has never severed, and the longing each day it has grown.
So, tomorrow, I'll be leaving for the land that I call my home.
List of MSPs by region (R) or constituency (C) who showed their support for the Hometime Scotland campaign and told the charity what song reminds them of home.:
-Bashir Ahmad, SNP, Glasgow (R)
Long Live Pakistan: “When Pakistan came into being when I was aged 7, everyone was singing this song”.
-Claire Baker, Lab, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
Kelty Clippie: “It reminds me of home because I grew up in Kelty”.
-Richard Baker, Lab, North East Scotland (R)
Alive and Kicking: “Because it’s an upbeat Scottish song that is full of optimism and confidence”.
-Sarah Boyack, Lab, Edinburgh Central (C)
Isn’t it good to be home again: “It reminds me of how nice it is to have a home”.
-Rhona Brankin, Lab, Midlothian (C)
Homeward Bound by Simon and Garfunkel: “It reminds me of being at home when my children were young.”
-Malcolm Chisholm, Lab, Edinburgh North and Leith (C)
Green green grass of home: “It’s a sad song and a bit sentimental.”
-Angela Constance, SNP, Livingston (C)
Wild Mountain Thyme: “It was the song I walked down the aisle to”.
-Rob Gibson, SNP, Highlands and Islands (R)
Indiana by Andy Mitchell (a friend of his): “It’s about people coming back home to Scotland, to where they were from, to bring up their children”.
-Karen Gillon, Lab, Clydesdale (C)
Going Home by Runrig: ”When I am away it reminds me of home, wherever that is.”
-Marlyn Glen, Lab, North East Scotland (R)
Over the Rainbow: “It reminds me of my parents.”
-Iain Gray, Lab, East Lothian (C)
“My family all originate from Leith, and Easter Road is a second home to
me, wherever I am living. So it has to be Sunshine on Leith by the Proclaimers.”
-Robin Harper, Green, Lothians (R).
Octopusses Garden in the Shade, Beatles: Possibly because it is happy (Home always was. And bright too).
-Christopher Harvie, SNP, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
My choice would be 'The Master's song' by Robert Louis Stevenson, from 'The Master of Ballantrae', beautifully set by Vaughan Williams:
Home, home no more to me!
Whither must I wander?
Hunger my driver, I go where I must.
Rough blows the winter wind
O'er the barren moorland,
Thick drives the rain,
And my roof is in the dark.
-Patrick Harvie, Green, Glasgow (R)
Dr Who theme tune: It reminds me of home because I watch it all the time.
-Jamie Hepburn, SNP, Central Scotland (R)
Firhill for Thrills: “I support Partick Thistle Football Club.”
-Cathy Jamieson, Lab, Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley (C)
Ye banks and braes and bonnie doon: “Because it’s so near to my home.”
-James Kelly, Lab, Glasgow Rutherglen (C)
500 Miles, The Proclaimers: “It’s my kids favourite song so it reminds me of them.”
-Johann Lamont, Lab, Glasgow Pollok (C)
Sailing By: “My family are from Tiree, and when we all lived in Glasgow we would listen to this song on the radio together and it reminded us of Tiree.”
-Margo MacDonald, Ind, Lothians (R)
'My choice is John Denver's Grandma's Feather Bed. I never had a grandma with a feather bed. However, my family experienced homelessness at a time when that song was getting a lot of radio plays, and it gave me a warm, homey impression. It probably meant more to me than most because of our situation.'
-Tricia Marwick, SNP, Central Fife (C)
Our House: “Love the song, love the group.”
-Nanette Milne, Con, North East Scotland (R)
The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen: “I was born and bred there and have never got away”.
-John Park, Lab, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
Into the Valley: “The band who sing it are from Dunfermline, and I’m from Dunfermline.”
-Alex Salmond, SNP, Gordon.
Caledonia by Dougie Maclean. “It’s the complete modern anthem of home and homecoming.”
-Tavish Scott, LD, Shetland (C)
The Norseman’s Home: “The song that reminds me of Shetland, my home. This is one of the songs sung at the Up Helly Aa fire festival held in Lerwick every January and at the smaller versions of the festival held elsewhere around Shetland. The Norseman's Home is the Viking funeral hymn sung by the guisers as they stand round the galley after they have set it alight with their flaming torches.”
-Shirley-Anne Somerville, SNP, Lothians (R)
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star: “Because this song is on my baby’s mobile”.
-Jamie Stone, LD, Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross (C)
Leaving Stoer: “It’s a very sad song about depopulation and eviction from the crofts and highlands.” Jamie said he will email us reason.
-Nicola Sturgeon, SNP, Glasgow Govan (C)
These Streets by Paolo Nutini: “It’s a song about homesickness”
-Jim Tolson, LD, Dunfermline West (C)
Mull of Kintyre: “The openness and beauty of Scotland”.
-Maureen Watt, SNP, North East Scotland (R)
A Cornkister, Nicky Tams (trad.): “The only song my father could sing at ceilidhs, a great North East bothy ballad”.
-David Whitton, Lab, Strathkelvin and Bearsden (C)
Scotland the Brave: “The lyrics remind me of home.”
-John Wilson, SNP, Central Scotland (R)
Flower of Scotland: “A traditional song that is sung at rugby matches and is part of the national identity.”
Monday, November 24, 2008
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has told housing charity Shelter which song reminds him of homeThe Song that he choose was Indiana written by Highland songwriter/musician (and good friend of Rob's) Andy Mitchell.
The song was written by Andy when he was living in Ullapool. It is about the imminent return to Scotland/Ullapool of two friends of Andy who had emigrated to the USA years previously. He wrote a song to see it from their point of view.
Rob said…
"This song is the perfect encapsulation of what home means to me. It talks about people returning home, the pull of home in the face of reasons for staying elsewhere. It is about people wanting to bring up their children in their own land of roots and personal connections as opposed to material riches in a different country. It reminds us that Scotland has plenty of land and too many planning restrictions that stop Scots living in their own country."
Mr Gibson joined other MSP's and over 4,000 people in signing up to the charity’s Hometime Scotland campaign.
Shelter revealed the top song that reminds the public of home at the special handover event outside Parliament. From the 4,000 songs logged by the charity over the summer months, the number one choice was The Proclaimer’s foot stomping ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)’.
Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, housing and homelessness charity, made the announcement as he handed the thousands of song postcards to Nicola Sturgeon, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing.
The postcards are all in support of the charity’s Hometime Scotland campaign, which was launched in July, to ensure Scotland delivers on the internationally acclaimed 2012 homelessness target (2). Support has also been registered online at www.hometimescotland.org.uk
Scottish party political leaders and other MSPs from across Scotland are among those to have told Shelter what song that reminds them of home.
Scottish singer KT Tunstall, rock band Idlewild, and DJ Calvin Harris are also among those to tell the charity what song reminds them of home. Support for the campaign has also come from Scottish folk legend, Dougie MacLean, whose song ‘Caledonia’, was in second place in the Hometime Scotland song poll.
The Proclaimers said: "We'd be the ones who'd walk 500 miles to make sure that everyone in Scotland has a home. Having a house is an inherent right for people and one they shouldn't have to fight for, or fork out more than they can afford. We're delighted to be the top Hometime Scotland song and the one that reminds people of home. It's an honour."
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: “In this, the 40th year of Shelter Scotland, the Hometime Scotland campaign underlines the need to provide the unintentionally homeless with settled accommodation, which can be a base for themselves and their family.
“Homelessness is a blight on Scottish society and at odds with our ambition to build a modern, successful economy. This Government’s commitment to the homelessness 2012 target is unwavering, as are our ambitions for housing more generally.”
Shelter director Graeme Brown said: “If the 2012 homelessness target seems like 500 miles away, then we’re about 250 miles towards meeting it right now. But we need to pick up speed to travel the extra distance. Our next hurdle is the 2009/10 budget. We need to see increased cash for housing through that budget to ensure housing for all. We know times are tough just now but a home is a right, not a luxury.”
ENDS
CONTACT: Christina Cran, Nicola Baxter (shelter) 0844 515 2442 (connects to out of hours)
NOTE TO EDITORS
Lyrics to Indiana
by Andy Mitchell
Fare thee well, now, Indiana, your green land has been good to me.
There I traveled, there I settled, there I raised up my family.
But the cord has never severed, and the longing each day it has grown.
So, tomorrow, I'll be leaving for the land that I call my home.
All my friends say that I'm crazy, going back to such poverty,
America is, so they say now, the land of opportunity.
But the shy hare runs so swiftly and the heron slowly flies.
These are treasures from my homeland that all your money can never buy.
As our ship lies in the harbor, I shall look back on your shore.
And I'll feel sadness that I'm leaving your green land forever more.
But as our ship lies on the ocean and each day we are out on the sea.
All the dreams I've had for years now, drawing nearer reality.
Fare-thee-well, now, Indiana, your green land has been good to me.
There I traveled, there I settled, there I raised up my family.
But the cord has never severed, and the longing each day it has grown.
So, tomorrow, I'll be leaving for the land that I call my home.
List of MSPs by region (R) or constituency (C) who showed their support for the Hometime Scotland campaign and told the charity what song reminds them of home.:
-Bashir Ahmad, SNP, Glasgow (R)
Long Live Pakistan: “When Pakistan came into being when I was aged 7, everyone was singing this song”.
-Claire Baker, Lab, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
Kelty Clippie: “It reminds me of home because I grew up in Kelty”.
-Richard Baker, Lab, North East Scotland (R)
Alive and Kicking: “Because it’s an upbeat Scottish song that is full of optimism and confidence”.
-Sarah Boyack, Lab, Edinburgh Central (C)
Isn’t it good to be home again: “It reminds me of how nice it is to have a home”.
-Rhona Brankin, Lab, Midlothian (C)
Homeward Bound by Simon and Garfunkel: “It reminds me of being at home when my children were young.”
-Malcolm Chisholm, Lab, Edinburgh North and Leith (C)
Green green grass of home: “It’s a sad song and a bit sentimental.”
-Angela Constance, SNP, Livingston (C)
Wild Mountain Thyme: “It was the song I walked down the aisle to”.
-Rob Gibson, SNP, Highlands and Islands (R)
Indiana by Andy Mitchell (a friend of his): “It’s about people coming back home to Scotland, to where they were from, to bring up their children”.
-Karen Gillon, Lab, Clydesdale (C)
Going Home by Runrig: ”When I am away it reminds me of home, wherever that is.”
-Marlyn Glen, Lab, North East Scotland (R)
Over the Rainbow: “It reminds me of my parents.”
-Iain Gray, Lab, East Lothian (C)
“My family all originate from Leith, and Easter Road is a second home to
me, wherever I am living. So it has to be Sunshine on Leith by the Proclaimers.”
-Robin Harper, Green, Lothians (R).
Octopusses Garden in the Shade, Beatles: Possibly because it is happy (Home always was. And bright too).
-Christopher Harvie, SNP, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
My choice would be 'The Master's song' by Robert Louis Stevenson, from 'The Master of Ballantrae', beautifully set by Vaughan Williams:
Home, home no more to me!
Whither must I wander?
Hunger my driver, I go where I must.
Rough blows the winter wind
O'er the barren moorland,
Thick drives the rain,
And my roof is in the dark.
-Patrick Harvie, Green, Glasgow (R)
Dr Who theme tune: It reminds me of home because I watch it all the time.
-Jamie Hepburn, SNP, Central Scotland (R)
Firhill for Thrills: “I support Partick Thistle Football Club.”
-Cathy Jamieson, Lab, Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley (C)
Ye banks and braes and bonnie doon: “Because it’s so near to my home.”
-James Kelly, Lab, Glasgow Rutherglen (C)
500 Miles, The Proclaimers: “It’s my kids favourite song so it reminds me of them.”
-Johann Lamont, Lab, Glasgow Pollok (C)
Sailing By: “My family are from Tiree, and when we all lived in Glasgow we would listen to this song on the radio together and it reminded us of Tiree.”
-Margo MacDonald, Ind, Lothians (R)
'My choice is John Denver's Grandma's Feather Bed. I never had a grandma with a feather bed. However, my family experienced homelessness at a time when that song was getting a lot of radio plays, and it gave me a warm, homey impression. It probably meant more to me than most because of our situation.'
-Tricia Marwick, SNP, Central Fife (C)
Our House: “Love the song, love the group.”
-Nanette Milne, Con, North East Scotland (R)
The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen: “I was born and bred there and have never got away”.
-John Park, Lab, Mid Scotland and Fife (R)
Into the Valley: “The band who sing it are from Dunfermline, and I’m from Dunfermline.”
-Alex Salmond, SNP, Gordon.
Caledonia by Dougie Maclean. “It’s the complete modern anthem of home and homecoming.”
-Tavish Scott, LD, Shetland (C)
The Norseman’s Home: “The song that reminds me of Shetland, my home. This is one of the songs sung at the Up Helly Aa fire festival held in Lerwick every January and at the smaller versions of the festival held elsewhere around Shetland. The Norseman's Home is the Viking funeral hymn sung by the guisers as they stand round the galley after they have set it alight with their flaming torches.”
-Shirley-Anne Somerville, SNP, Lothians (R)
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star: “Because this song is on my baby’s mobile”.
-Jamie Stone, LD, Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross (C)
Leaving Stoer: “It’s a very sad song about depopulation and eviction from the crofts and highlands.” Jamie said he will email us reason.
-Nicola Sturgeon, SNP, Glasgow Govan (C)
These Streets by Paolo Nutini: “It’s a song about homesickness”
-Jim Tolson, LD, Dunfermline West (C)
Mull of Kintyre: “The openness and beauty of Scotland”.
-Maureen Watt, SNP, North East Scotland (R)
A Cornkister, Nicky Tams (trad.): “The only song my father could sing at ceilidhs, a great North East bothy ballad”.
-David Whitton, Lab, Strathkelvin and Bearsden (C)
Scotland the Brave: “The lyrics remind me of home.”
-John Wilson, SNP, Central Scotland (R)
Flower of Scotland: “A traditional song that is sung at rugby matches and is part of the national identity.”
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
Gibson comments on free meals vote
News release
Immediate release
19/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a vote in the Education Committee which allow free school meals to be extended to a further 5, 616 P1-3 pupils throughout the region by 2010.
The vote was 3-2 in favour of providing free school meals to primary 1 to 3 pupils. The SNP members voted in favour, Labour abstained with the Lib Dems and Conservatives forming an alliance against the proposal.
Mr Gibson said....
"I am proud that the SNP members of the education committee have voted through this measure which will tackle poverty head on. i would expect nothing more from the Conservatives however i though that the Lib Dem's had a social conscious. it seem that by siding with the Tories in this vote that they have lost it.
"The fact that Labour can't even bring themselves to support the principle (even though it is supported by trade unions, charities and teachers) is symptomatic of their current political malaise and bitterness towards the SNP."
"The aim of the Lib Dems/Tory alliance was to try and take food out of the mouths of around 118,000 children throughout Scotland. It is quite astonishing. i am genuinely shocked to see the Lib Dems lurch to that point of the political spectrum."
"The Highland Council has received an extra 5.8% in their budget from the Scottish Budget so therefore the Lib Dem administration in Highland Council should be able to fund this fair policy which will see 7,569 (see 2) pupils benefit."
ENDS
Notes:
1. The legislation passed by 3 for (SNP), 2 against (Con / LD) and 3 abstentions (Lab)
2. based on 2006/7 figs Highland Council has 1,953 children receiving free school meals if legislation is voted through that will go up to 7,569 an increase of 5,616
For Scotland the figures are an increase of 117,521 to 161,899
3. The text of the letter sent to all Committee members from the following organisations is below; Save the Children, Child Poverty Action Group, Unison, The Poverty Alliance, One Parent Families Scotland, Scottish Women's Committee, Association of Head Teachers and Deputes in Scotland, the Church and Society Council and the Scottish Local Government Forum against Poverty
Draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008 :
We are writing to urge you as a member of the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee to recommend that the draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008 be approved as moved in Committee this coming Wednesday 19th November.
Approving the Order is essential to allow local authorities to roll out provision of free school meals to all P1 to P3 pupils in their areas, a provision that we believe will make an important contribution to children's education, health and well being, as well as providing much needed relief to hard pressed family budgets.
Given the consensus that exists on the importance of nutrition to children's development we believe it would be a tragedy if a scheme which has boosted healthy school meal uptake so significantly was prevented from being rolled out by local authorities.
We would therefore be grateful for your reassurance that you will work to ensure that the Committee recommends the approval of the Order.
Immediate release
19/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a vote in the Education Committee which allow free school meals to be extended to a further 5, 616 P1-3 pupils throughout the region by 2010.
The vote was 3-2 in favour of providing free school meals to primary 1 to 3 pupils. The SNP members voted in favour, Labour abstained with the Lib Dems and Conservatives forming an alliance against the proposal.
Mr Gibson said....
"I am proud that the SNP members of the education committee have voted through this measure which will tackle poverty head on. i would expect nothing more from the Conservatives however i though that the Lib Dem's had a social conscious. it seem that by siding with the Tories in this vote that they have lost it.
"The fact that Labour can't even bring themselves to support the principle (even though it is supported by trade unions, charities and teachers) is symptomatic of their current political malaise and bitterness towards the SNP."
"The aim of the Lib Dems/Tory alliance was to try and take food out of the mouths of around 118,000 children throughout Scotland. It is quite astonishing. i am genuinely shocked to see the Lib Dems lurch to that point of the political spectrum."
"The Highland Council has received an extra 5.8% in their budget from the Scottish Budget so therefore the Lib Dem administration in Highland Council should be able to fund this fair policy which will see 7,569 (see 2) pupils benefit."
ENDS
Notes:
1. The legislation passed by 3 for (SNP), 2 against (Con / LD) and 3 abstentions (Lab)
2. based on 2006/7 figs Highland Council has 1,953 children receiving free school meals if legislation is voted through that will go up to 7,569 an increase of 5,616
For Scotland the figures are an increase of 117,521 to 161,899
3. The text of the letter sent to all Committee members from the following organisations is below; Save the Children, Child Poverty Action Group, Unison, The Poverty Alliance, One Parent Families Scotland, Scottish Women's Committee, Association of Head Teachers and Deputes in Scotland, the Church and Society Council and the Scottish Local Government Forum against Poverty
Draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008 :
We are writing to urge you as a member of the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee to recommend that the draft Provision of School Lunches (Disapplication of the Requirement to Charge) (Scotland) Order 2008 be approved as moved in Committee this coming Wednesday 19th November.
Approving the Order is essential to allow local authorities to roll out provision of free school meals to all P1 to P3 pupils in their areas, a provision that we believe will make an important contribution to children's education, health and well being, as well as providing much needed relief to hard pressed family budgets.
Given the consensus that exists on the importance of nutrition to children's development we believe it would be a tragedy if a scheme which has boosted healthy school meal uptake so significantly was prevented from being rolled out by local authorities.
We would therefore be grateful for your reassurance that you will work to ensure that the Committee recommends the approval of the Order.
Monday, 24 November 2008
Gibson questions minister over special protection area
News release
Immediate release
19/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has questioned the Environment Minister over proposed special protection areas for seabirds for Cape Wrath.
Mr Gibson asked Michael Russels in chamber last week if the decision to extend the 31 special areas was based on sound science and if the health of breeding seabirds could be monitored in one of those areas, Cape Wrath, which is part of a live bombing range?
Mr Russell l responded that proposals were based on robust scientific areas and that idea of extending the Cape Wrath protection area by 2 KM was part of Scottish Government's commitment to protecting wildlife. He ended by saying that the bombing could be undertaken more sensitively—if he said 'bombing can ever be undertaken sensitively'.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"I was interested to see that Cape Wrath had been included as one of the 31 special areas. Whilst marine spatial planning can accommodate the protection of seabirds and marine energy devices it seems more difficult for a live bombing range and a special protection area to co-exist."
"The Minister indicates that at present the situation regarding bombing could be more sensitive of that is possible. I would urge him, the community, conservation bodies and the MoD to work closely together so that a balance can be wrought to protect one of the wild places of Europe which has a true bio diversity."
"However this will balance will need to come about by dialogue a bit of give and take from all parties. In my experience the one organisation which has been the most intransigent is the MoD I hope that they will be willing to discuss the matter and compromise."
ENDS
Note to editor:
Copy of exchange from last week (13/11/08)
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): Is the decision to extend 31 special protection areas into sea areas based on sound science? Can the health of breeding seabirds be monitored in one of those areas, Cape Wrath, which is part of a live bombing range?
Michael Russell: The proposed boundaries of the extended areas are based on robust scientific data, but it is obvious that there must also be a justification that local people accept and understand. In all the work that I and my colleague Mr Lochhead have done with communities on such issues, we have been determined to ensure that proposals are acceptable and have support, because the health of the local environment should be important to every citizen. The proposals on Cape Wrath were endorsed in the context of the science by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee and Scottish Natural Heritage. The proposed 2km extension for Cape Wrath is part of the Scottish Government's commitment to protecting seabird populations. I have communicated with the member many times about bombing activities at Cape Wrath, which I think could be undertaken more sensitively—if bombing can ever be undertaken sensitively.
Immediate release
19/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has questioned the Environment Minister over proposed special protection areas for seabirds for Cape Wrath.
Mr Gibson asked Michael Russels in chamber last week if the decision to extend the 31 special areas was based on sound science and if the health of breeding seabirds could be monitored in one of those areas, Cape Wrath, which is part of a live bombing range?
Mr Russell l responded that proposals were based on robust scientific areas and that idea of extending the Cape Wrath protection area by 2 KM was part of Scottish Government's commitment to protecting wildlife. He ended by saying that the bombing could be undertaken more sensitively—if he said 'bombing can ever be undertaken sensitively'.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"I was interested to see that Cape Wrath had been included as one of the 31 special areas. Whilst marine spatial planning can accommodate the protection of seabirds and marine energy devices it seems more difficult for a live bombing range and a special protection area to co-exist."
"The Minister indicates that at present the situation regarding bombing could be more sensitive of that is possible. I would urge him, the community, conservation bodies and the MoD to work closely together so that a balance can be wrought to protect one of the wild places of Europe which has a true bio diversity."
"However this will balance will need to come about by dialogue a bit of give and take from all parties. In my experience the one organisation which has been the most intransigent is the MoD I hope that they will be willing to discuss the matter and compromise."
ENDS
Note to editor:
Copy of exchange from last week (13/11/08)
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): Is the decision to extend 31 special protection areas into sea areas based on sound science? Can the health of breeding seabirds be monitored in one of those areas, Cape Wrath, which is part of a live bombing range?
Michael Russell: The proposed boundaries of the extended areas are based on robust scientific data, but it is obvious that there must also be a justification that local people accept and understand. In all the work that I and my colleague Mr Lochhead have done with communities on such issues, we have been determined to ensure that proposals are acceptable and have support, because the health of the local environment should be important to every citizen. The proposals on Cape Wrath were endorsed in the context of the science by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee and Scottish Natural Heritage. The proposed 2km extension for Cape Wrath is part of the Scottish Government's commitment to protecting seabird populations. I have communicated with the member many times about bombing activities at Cape Wrath, which I think could be undertaken more sensitively—if bombing can ever be undertaken sensitively.
Gibson calls for changes to aquaculture planning
News release
Immediate release
21/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has called for the freeing up of areas of the sea for aquaculture to take place.
His call came during the debate on the subject in the Scottish Parliament.
Mr Gibson raised the issue of Crown Estate marine sites which had been leased out yet have not been used.
During the debate Mr Gibson was congratulated by the Fishing Minister Mike Russell on raising the issue, whilst the Labour Party also recognised its importance.
It emerged that for the first time a map of the areas which are leased has now been published by the Scottish Government.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"The planning framework which governs the sites for lease by the Crown Estate needs to be tightened up. For years the Crown Estate have been leasing sites claiming rent for aquaculture activities on productive sites but taking little action against unused sites."
"This practice has to stop and I am greatly encouraged by the Minister's comments during the debate. It is vitally important that we can see where these leased sites are and who leases them. So that action can be taken to turn them into productive areas."
"There is enormous potential however in 2006 the were 140 fish farming sites (leased by the Crown Estate) which were producing nothing."
Rob also called for a greater marketing campaign and increased home sales to help aquaculture producers beat the credit crunch. He said that sales to continental Europe this year were very slow and part of the short fall could be made up from home sales. However he said that for that to happen the abundance and quality of food from the seas on the doorstep of Scotland had to highlighted to the people of Scotland.
ENDS
Immediate release
21/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has called for the freeing up of areas of the sea for aquaculture to take place.
His call came during the debate on the subject in the Scottish Parliament.
Mr Gibson raised the issue of Crown Estate marine sites which had been leased out yet have not been used.
During the debate Mr Gibson was congratulated by the Fishing Minister Mike Russell on raising the issue, whilst the Labour Party also recognised its importance.
It emerged that for the first time a map of the areas which are leased has now been published by the Scottish Government.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"The planning framework which governs the sites for lease by the Crown Estate needs to be tightened up. For years the Crown Estate have been leasing sites claiming rent for aquaculture activities on productive sites but taking little action against unused sites."
"This practice has to stop and I am greatly encouraged by the Minister's comments during the debate. It is vitally important that we can see where these leased sites are and who leases them. So that action can be taken to turn them into productive areas."
"There is enormous potential however in 2006 the were 140 fish farming sites (leased by the Crown Estate) which were producing nothing."
Rob also called for a greater marketing campaign and increased home sales to help aquaculture producers beat the credit crunch. He said that sales to continental Europe this year were very slow and part of the short fall could be made up from home sales. However he said that for that to happen the abundance and quality of food from the seas on the doorstep of Scotland had to highlighted to the people of Scotland.
ENDS
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Laying a wreath at the Polish War Memorial
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands and Cromarty Firth Ward SNP Councillor Maxine Smith laid a wreath of white and red flowers at the Polish War Memorial ceremony in Invergordon on Sunday 16th November.This annual service was well attended by several generations of Polish and Scots/Polish families from Easter Ross. Guests included the Polish Vice Consul to Scotland Piotr Leszezynski. The ceremony at the distinctive memorial at Castle Drive, Invergordon has an important place in many hearts as Polish families and service personnel chose to stay in Scotland after the war when conditions under the Russian occupation made it impossible for them to return home.
Rob Gibson and Maxine Smith took their turn to lay their wreath of red and white flowers, the colours of the Polish flag, at the memorial which proclaims 'for your and our freedom', a most appropriate dedication to remember the Second World War and in today's very different world.
The comradeship of world war and the fellow feeling of two of the peoples among the 27 member European Union of today maintains the ceremony at Invergordon. It includes a mixture of long established families in Easter Ross, young Poles working in the Highlands and families such as that of top piper Duncan MacGillivray of Calrossie whose American wife Jane is of Polish origins. Duncan piped for the flag bearers, the reveille and the Polish anthem. Their children and friends placed candles at the memorial after the wreath laying as a poignant tribute to the fallen of both lands.
Meanwhile in Warsaw, Linda Fabiani, Europe and Culture Minister in the Scottish Government was laying a wreath on a memorial to Scots in Poland signifying the close links between our countries over several centuries.
Rob Gibson said, "It is good to maintain the traditions of Scottish and Polish friendship. While the British declaration of war on Germany in 1939 tried to aid Poland in her hour of need, we remember the brave people who fought and fell for their countries and join with them in friendship today as Scottish-Polish links remain strong.
"The ceremony at Invergordon is organised each year by Vanda Hardy. She deserves wide praise for this lasting commemoration in Easter Ross."
ENDS
Monday, 17 November 2008
SNP call for Wick Airport pilot
News release
immediate release
17/11/08
A call has been made for Wick Airport to be the pilot for a state of the art landing system.
SNP MSP Rob Gibson and Councillor Jean Urquahart the SNP Westminster candidate for the Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross Consitusency, are calling on the Civil Aviation Authority to give the go-ahead for a GPS Satellite system to be tried out at the Caithness airport.
One of the key proposals of the Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership is to fit all-weather landing equipment at Wick airport. However given the lack of action from Highlands and Islands Airports HIAL (which operates Wick airport) it was agreed by an SNP gathering in Wick at the weekend that a more radical solution is required.
Said Rob Gibson....
"Infrastructure improvements to our rail, roads, harbours and airport are key to the development of Pentland Firth marine renewables. While Kirkwall has a modern instrument landing system ILS, it's time Wick was spared so many cancellations due to fog and low cloud.
"I have not been impressed by HIAL in anticipating the need for reliable air link to bring in experts for Dounreay decommissioning and very soon the high tech personnel required in marine renewable development. No more need for taxis from Aberdeen for diverted passengers, thank you.
"It seems that worldwide we will be moving towards the universal use GPS landing systems. I have been reliably informed that GPS systems, Satnavs, in our cars are fitted in aircraft. I believe that Wick airport would be an ideal pilot project for GPS landing equipment."
Cllr Urquhart who has written to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said....
"Aviation management is a reserved matter for the London Government. I believe the CAA should press ahead with a GPS trial at Wick. The airfield is an open site with limited traffic and is often affected by fog and low cloud. While the ILS system installed at Kirkwall can help aircraft land safely down to 200 feet, I understand that GPS is capable of landing in zero visibility and installing the necessary ground equipment is cheaper than ILS.
"The airport for the Far North deserves to have cutting edge landing gear. Our marine renewable prospects are on the frontiers of technology, they deserve an aircraft management system to match."
ENDS
immediate release
17/11/08
A call has been made for Wick Airport to be the pilot for a state of the art landing system.
SNP MSP Rob Gibson and Councillor Jean Urquahart the SNP Westminster candidate for the Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross Consitusency, are calling on the Civil Aviation Authority to give the go-ahead for a GPS Satellite system to be tried out at the Caithness airport.
One of the key proposals of the Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership is to fit all-weather landing equipment at Wick airport. However given the lack of action from Highlands and Islands Airports HIAL (which operates Wick airport) it was agreed by an SNP gathering in Wick at the weekend that a more radical solution is required.
Said Rob Gibson....
"Infrastructure improvements to our rail, roads, harbours and airport are key to the development of Pentland Firth marine renewables. While Kirkwall has a modern instrument landing system ILS, it's time Wick was spared so many cancellations due to fog and low cloud.
"I have not been impressed by HIAL in anticipating the need for reliable air link to bring in experts for Dounreay decommissioning and very soon the high tech personnel required in marine renewable development. No more need for taxis from Aberdeen for diverted passengers, thank you.
"It seems that worldwide we will be moving towards the universal use GPS landing systems. I have been reliably informed that GPS systems, Satnavs, in our cars are fitted in aircraft. I believe that Wick airport would be an ideal pilot project for GPS landing equipment."
Cllr Urquhart who has written to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said....
"Aviation management is a reserved matter for the London Government. I believe the CAA should press ahead with a GPS trial at Wick. The airfield is an open site with limited traffic and is often affected by fog and low cloud. While the ILS system installed at Kirkwall can help aircraft land safely down to 200 feet, I understand that GPS is capable of landing in zero visibility and installing the necessary ground equipment is cheaper than ILS.
"The airport for the Far North deserves to have cutting edge landing gear. Our marine renewable prospects are on the frontiers of technology, they deserve an aircraft management system to match."
ENDS
Monday, 10 November 2008
Gibson welcomes dental plan for Easter Ross
News release
Immediate release
10/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed the news that two new NHS dental premises are planned for Easter Ross.
Last week Mr Gibson questioned Health Secretary Nicol Sturgeon over NHS dentist's in the region. During the exchange Ms Sturgeon confirmed that they were plans to establish new dental premise's in Tain and Invergordon (as well as others at Portree and Grantown).
Mr Gibson said…
"This is great news for Easter Ross as well as the Highlands and Islands. It is estimated that the announcement will lead to more surgeries with many more people being able to register under NHS conditions."
"In recent years a persistent issue from many constituents is the lack of NHS Dentist's available in the area. The Cabinet Secretary's announcement shows that the issue is still very much a priority for the Scottish Government as well as NHS Highland."
"Figures released last week showed that dental registration with NHS dentist had risen 4% in Scotland. The figures also showed that the number of registrations with dentists for both adults and children are the highest since registrations were introduced in October 1990. Progress is being made but it is still ground to be made up and I am confident that the Government will make it happen."
"This announcement will see a real difference on the supply of NHS dentists in the North and West. I am sure the people of Easter Ross and beyond will welcome the fact that the centers, such as the Loch shell dental clinic in Wick, will be situated in the two towns. There will be real benefit to accrue to the area and a positive impact is sure to follow."
ENDS
Note:
Transcript of Q & A From last week (06/11/08):
National Health Service Dentists (Highlands and Islands)
8. Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that all adults and children in Caithness and other parts of the Highlands and Islands are able to register with an NHS dentist. (S3O-4739)
The Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing (Nicola Sturgeon): Responsibility for the overall provision of NHS general dental services rests with NHS boards.
NHS Highland has already expanded its salaried dental services and has a number of other projects planned to expand services further. New dental surgeries have been established in Wick, Fort William and Inverness, and there are plans to establish new premises in Portree, Grantown, Invergordon and Tain. Those developments will result in the creation of an additional 29 dental surgeries and the registration of a minimum additional 29,000 patients under NHS arrangements.
NHS Highland is raising awareness of the grants that are available under the Scottish dental access initiative, and it has been provisionally allocated £4.14 million from the primary and community care modernisation fund.
Rob Gibson: I thank the cabinet secretary for that detailed answer. At present, there is a shortfall of graduates who are able to take up posts. For example, in Orkney, around 2.4 full-time posts are required. The figure in Caithness would probably be double that. Will the cabinet secretary give us an idea of the flow of graduates who will be able to fill the posts in the new dental premises that we are about to build?
Nicola Sturgeon: Rob Gibson raises an important point. As we expand the opportunities and the incentives for dentists to do NHS dentistry, we must ensure that the flow of dentists through education and into those posts is as smooth as possible. That is one of the key reasons why the Government took the decision to open the Aberdeen dental school. It opened on 6 October, and I am pleased to say that it has now accepted its first intake of students. That will increase the number of students training in Scotland, so in time it will increase the number of graduates.
In the 2007-08 academic session, 492 students across Scotland applied for the dental bursary.
That will ensure a future stock of dentists for NHS dentistry.
Immediate release
10/11/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed the news that two new NHS dental premises are planned for Easter Ross.
Last week Mr Gibson questioned Health Secretary Nicol Sturgeon over NHS dentist's in the region. During the exchange Ms Sturgeon confirmed that they were plans to establish new dental premise's in Tain and Invergordon (as well as others at Portree and Grantown).
Mr Gibson said…
"This is great news for Easter Ross as well as the Highlands and Islands. It is estimated that the announcement will lead to more surgeries with many more people being able to register under NHS conditions."
"In recent years a persistent issue from many constituents is the lack of NHS Dentist's available in the area. The Cabinet Secretary's announcement shows that the issue is still very much a priority for the Scottish Government as well as NHS Highland."
"Figures released last week showed that dental registration with NHS dentist had risen 4% in Scotland. The figures also showed that the number of registrations with dentists for both adults and children are the highest since registrations were introduced in October 1990. Progress is being made but it is still ground to be made up and I am confident that the Government will make it happen."
"This announcement will see a real difference on the supply of NHS dentists in the North and West. I am sure the people of Easter Ross and beyond will welcome the fact that the centers, such as the Loch shell dental clinic in Wick, will be situated in the two towns. There will be real benefit to accrue to the area and a positive impact is sure to follow."
ENDS
Note:
Transcript of Q & A From last week (06/11/08):
National Health Service Dentists (Highlands and Islands)
8. Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to ensure that all adults and children in Caithness and other parts of the Highlands and Islands are able to register with an NHS dentist. (S3O-4739)
The Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing (Nicola Sturgeon): Responsibility for the overall provision of NHS general dental services rests with NHS boards.
NHS Highland has already expanded its salaried dental services and has a number of other projects planned to expand services further. New dental surgeries have been established in Wick, Fort William and Inverness, and there are plans to establish new premises in Portree, Grantown, Invergordon and Tain. Those developments will result in the creation of an additional 29 dental surgeries and the registration of a minimum additional 29,000 patients under NHS arrangements.
NHS Highland is raising awareness of the grants that are available under the Scottish dental access initiative, and it has been provisionally allocated £4.14 million from the primary and community care modernisation fund.
Rob Gibson: I thank the cabinet secretary for that detailed answer. At present, there is a shortfall of graduates who are able to take up posts. For example, in Orkney, around 2.4 full-time posts are required. The figure in Caithness would probably be double that. Will the cabinet secretary give us an idea of the flow of graduates who will be able to fill the posts in the new dental premises that we are about to build?
Nicola Sturgeon: Rob Gibson raises an important point. As we expand the opportunities and the incentives for dentists to do NHS dentistry, we must ensure that the flow of dentists through education and into those posts is as smooth as possible. That is one of the key reasons why the Government took the decision to open the Aberdeen dental school. It opened on 6 October, and I am pleased to say that it has now accepted its first intake of students. That will increase the number of students training in Scotland, so in time it will increase the number of graduates.
In the 2007-08 academic session, 492 students across Scotland applied for the dental bursary.
That will ensure a future stock of dentists for NHS dentistry.
Friday, 7 November 2008
EU regulation must stop binning ugly fruit
News release
Immediate release
07/11/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has sought Scottish Government backing to ensure the EU Commission relaxes regulation that dictates shape, size and appearance of many fruit and vegetables produced across the continent.
He was speaking after a Highland Council-led Conference on Local Food in the Highlands.
Mr Gibson said,
"Tough regulations have led to 20 percent of fruit and vegetables produced in the UK going to waste. In credit crunch times taste is more important than shape.
"I have asked the Scottish Rural Affairs Minister Richard Lochhead to lobby the EU Commission on this issue.
It has been reported that the EU are to discuss relaxing shape, size and appearance regulations on the 12th of November. If the go-ahead is given the changes would come into force until next July.
Mr Gibson says that the time frame is too long...
"Producers and consumers deserve a speedier relaxation as the price of food hits pockets hard in this credit crunch. Tasty fruit and vegetables should not be wasted.
"As we develop a National Scottish Food Policy, Highland producers and consumers will play a key part. I applaud the Highland Council conference and seek EU support to relax unnecessarily strict regulations that create discards in fresh fruit and veg. The current regualtions are like the ones which accounts for the discards of perfectly edible fish which are thrown back dead after our hard pressed fisherman catch them. Smart regulation can increase our food supply in each case. "
ENDS
Immediate release
07/11/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has sought Scottish Government backing to ensure the EU Commission relaxes regulation that dictates shape, size and appearance of many fruit and vegetables produced across the continent.
He was speaking after a Highland Council-led Conference on Local Food in the Highlands.
Mr Gibson said,
"Tough regulations have led to 20 percent of fruit and vegetables produced in the UK going to waste. In credit crunch times taste is more important than shape.
"I have asked the Scottish Rural Affairs Minister Richard Lochhead to lobby the EU Commission on this issue.
It has been reported that the EU are to discuss relaxing shape, size and appearance regulations on the 12th of November. If the go-ahead is given the changes would come into force until next July.
Mr Gibson says that the time frame is too long...
"Producers and consumers deserve a speedier relaxation as the price of food hits pockets hard in this credit crunch. Tasty fruit and vegetables should not be wasted.
"As we develop a National Scottish Food Policy, Highland producers and consumers will play a key part. I applaud the Highland Council conference and seek EU support to relax unnecessarily strict regulations that create discards in fresh fruit and veg. The current regualtions are like the ones which accounts for the discards of perfectly edible fish which are thrown back dead after our hard pressed fisherman catch them. Smart regulation can increase our food supply in each case. "
ENDS
Monday, 3 November 2008
Gibson welcomes Broadband responses
News release
Immediate release
31/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has received correspondence from hundreds of constituents about the lack of broadband connection in remote and rural areas in the Highlands and Islands
At the end of last month Mr Gibson sent out the first part of a consultation to enquire about the state of broadband around selected communities in the region. To date he has received over 500 responses with more consultations still to go out and more still coming in.
Mr Gibson says at the moment a trend is emerging that broadband across the region is very patchy and has called on broadband providers to sharpen up their act.
"The responses so far shows that whilst some areas have broadband they are functioning on a level which is barely better than dial up. Indeed there are still areas that rely on dial up. This situation is intolerable and shows that parts of the Highlands have a second class broadband service."
"Much of the complaint is levelled at the BT monopoly for rural broadband. The exchanges are full or they are 'at the end of a thin copper line' therefore the high speed connections they are promised is substantially below that. Companies that supply broadband should offer the people throughout the region the best possible service or give them a rebate."
Mr Gibson said that once the he has gathered the responses then he would be presenting the findings to the responsible Minister Jim Mather as well as the providers of broadband in affected areas. Parts of Orkney and Ross-shire will receive consultation papers in the near future. In the mean time he has asked those affected by poor broadband connection (or those that do not receive it) to contact him with the details - rob.gibson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk.
ENDS
Immediate release
31/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has received correspondence from hundreds of constituents about the lack of broadband connection in remote and rural areas in the Highlands and Islands
At the end of last month Mr Gibson sent out the first part of a consultation to enquire about the state of broadband around selected communities in the region. To date he has received over 500 responses with more consultations still to go out and more still coming in.
Mr Gibson says at the moment a trend is emerging that broadband across the region is very patchy and has called on broadband providers to sharpen up their act.
"The responses so far shows that whilst some areas have broadband they are functioning on a level which is barely better than dial up. Indeed there are still areas that rely on dial up. This situation is intolerable and shows that parts of the Highlands have a second class broadband service."
"Much of the complaint is levelled at the BT monopoly for rural broadband. The exchanges are full or they are 'at the end of a thin copper line' therefore the high speed connections they are promised is substantially below that. Companies that supply broadband should offer the people throughout the region the best possible service or give them a rebate."
Mr Gibson said that once the he has gathered the responses then he would be presenting the findings to the responsible Minister Jim Mather as well as the providers of broadband in affected areas. Parts of Orkney and Ross-shire will receive consultation papers in the near future. In the mean time he has asked those affected by poor broadband connection (or those that do not receive it) to contact him with the details - rob.gibson.msp@scottish.parliament.uk.
ENDS
Thursday, 23 October 2008
Gibson calls for clarity on freeview roll out for BBC Alba
News release
Immediate release
23/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has written to the head of Ofcom to ask how much it would cost to make BBC Alba available on freeview before the intended review date of 2010.
MR Gibson says clarity is needed after a rumour circulated saying that is would cost millions of pounds to do so.
In the letter to Lord Currie of Marylebone (chairman of Ofcom) Mr Gibson asked how much the cost would be and how it was broken down. He also inquired what technical adjustments would be required to extend the new station's reach to the bulk Scots and other interested viewers.
Mr Gibson said…
"There needs to be a definitive answer from Ofcom into what the actual cost of moving BBC Alba to freeview. To me the figure which has been banded about seems excessive. However it is hard to know. That is why the answer from an impartial body is of paramount importance."
"I have received near cross party support for my parliamentary motion which calls for BBC Alba to be made available on freeview (As yet no one from the Liberal Democrats has signed the motion). It shows that there is a strong will from nearly all political strands in Scotland that there needs to be a change. I am sure that those involved in the channel and who at present cannot watch it will also agree. It is in the interests of the channel and the language that BBC Alba is made available to many and early."
ENDS
Copy of Rob's motion and supporters as of 27/10/08
S3M-02511 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): BBC Alba - Speed Up Freeview Option— That the Parliament welcomes the launch of the BBC Alba Gaelic television channel; wishes that all those involved will make the service a success; notes the potential that it has to boost the profile of the Gaelic language while informing and entertaining people throughout the country; however also notes, with disappointment, the fact that this service is not intended to be available through Freeview until after the digital switchover and that this will be subject to a review by the BBC Trust, and calls on the UK Government and BBC to speed up this process so that the channel has the chance to be watched by Gaels and non-Gaels throughout the nation who possess a Freeview box but do not have cable nor a satellite television.
Supported by: Jamie Hepburn, Christine Grahame, Michael Matheson, Robin Harper, Christina McKelvie, Bob Doris, Andrew Welsh, Bill Kidd, Dr Alasdair Allan, Ted Brocklebank, Roseanna Cunningham, Hugh Henry, Kenneth Gibson, Stuart McMillan, Sandra White, Gil Paterson, Mary Scanlon, Dave Thompson, Shirley-Anne Somerville, Aileen Campbell, Ken Macintosh, Jamie McGrigor, Brian Adam, Alex Neil, Nanette Milne, Bashir Ahmad
Immediate release
23/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has written to the head of Ofcom to ask how much it would cost to make BBC Alba available on freeview before the intended review date of 2010.
MR Gibson says clarity is needed after a rumour circulated saying that is would cost millions of pounds to do so.
In the letter to Lord Currie of Marylebone (chairman of Ofcom) Mr Gibson asked how much the cost would be and how it was broken down. He also inquired what technical adjustments would be required to extend the new station's reach to the bulk Scots and other interested viewers.
Mr Gibson said…
"There needs to be a definitive answer from Ofcom into what the actual cost of moving BBC Alba to freeview. To me the figure which has been banded about seems excessive. However it is hard to know. That is why the answer from an impartial body is of paramount importance."
"I have received near cross party support for my parliamentary motion which calls for BBC Alba to be made available on freeview (As yet no one from the Liberal Democrats has signed the motion). It shows that there is a strong will from nearly all political strands in Scotland that there needs to be a change. I am sure that those involved in the channel and who at present cannot watch it will also agree. It is in the interests of the channel and the language that BBC Alba is made available to many and early."
ENDS
Copy of Rob's motion and supporters as of 27/10/08
S3M-02511 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): BBC Alba - Speed Up Freeview Option— That the Parliament welcomes the launch of the BBC Alba Gaelic television channel; wishes that all those involved will make the service a success; notes the potential that it has to boost the profile of the Gaelic language while informing and entertaining people throughout the country; however also notes, with disappointment, the fact that this service is not intended to be available through Freeview until after the digital switchover and that this will be subject to a review by the BBC Trust, and calls on the UK Government and BBC to speed up this process so that the channel has the chance to be watched by Gaels and non-Gaels throughout the nation who possess a Freeview box but do not have cable nor a satellite television.
Supported by: Jamie Hepburn, Christine Grahame, Michael Matheson, Robin Harper, Christina McKelvie, Bob Doris, Andrew Welsh, Bill Kidd, Dr Alasdair Allan, Ted Brocklebank, Roseanna Cunningham, Hugh Henry, Kenneth Gibson, Stuart McMillan, Sandra White, Gil Paterson, Mary Scanlon, Dave Thompson, Shirley-Anne Somerville, Aileen Campbell, Ken Macintosh, Jamie McGrigor, Brian Adam, Alex Neil, Nanette Milne, Bashir Ahmad
Thursday, 9 October 2008
Gibson confused by Far North Line claim
News release
Immediate release
09/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has labeled as baffling and unhelpful claims by a Lib Dem Councilor that the Far North Line may close.
Mr Gibson was speaking in the wake of comments from Caithness Landward Councilor David Flear in which he said that this week's RMT strike might lead the powers-that-be to conclude that the line is not needed.
Mr Gibson who has long campaigned for improvements to the Far North line which stretches from Wick/Thurso to Inverness said…
"Why Cllr Flear is talking down the Far North's economic future is beyond me. The future of Caithness as well as Orkney is extremely positive and exciting. For that future to be realised the line needs to be improved not closed. I do not suppose closing the Far North Line will be top of First Scotrail or the Scottish Government's to do list."
"This type of negative talk does not advance the case for improving the Far North Line or the economy of the area. Yes there needs to be a lot improvement on the Line. There has already been a commitment to improve the signaling on the line which would hardly indicate the actions of government policy that are about to close it."
"If you look at the passenger numbers at stations on the Far North Line it shows that Thurso is the most used whilst Wick is one the most used. That is even with a near 4 hour journey. Therefore if the Dornoch link was implemented the journey would be slashed to around two and a half hours then I would imagine that the numbers would sky rocket."
ENDS
Immediate release
09/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has labeled as baffling and unhelpful claims by a Lib Dem Councilor that the Far North Line may close.
Mr Gibson was speaking in the wake of comments from Caithness Landward Councilor David Flear in which he said that this week's RMT strike might lead the powers-that-be to conclude that the line is not needed.
Mr Gibson who has long campaigned for improvements to the Far North line which stretches from Wick/Thurso to Inverness said…
"Why Cllr Flear is talking down the Far North's economic future is beyond me. The future of Caithness as well as Orkney is extremely positive and exciting. For that future to be realised the line needs to be improved not closed. I do not suppose closing the Far North Line will be top of First Scotrail or the Scottish Government's to do list."
"This type of negative talk does not advance the case for improving the Far North Line or the economy of the area. Yes there needs to be a lot improvement on the Line. There has already been a commitment to improve the signaling on the line which would hardly indicate the actions of government policy that are about to close it."
"If you look at the passenger numbers at stations on the Far North Line it shows that Thurso is the most used whilst Wick is one the most used. That is even with a near 4 hour journey. Therefore if the Dornoch link was implemented the journey would be slashed to around two and a half hours then I would imagine that the numbers would sky rocket."
ENDS
Thursday, 2 October 2008
'Encouraging response from First Minister' - Gibson
News release
Immediate release
02/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has labeled as encouraging an answer from the First Minster that the Scottish Government will consider making infrastructure improvements related to Pentland Firth developments a national priority.
Mr Gibson questioned Alex Salmond during First Ministers Question Time. He asked if the Scottish Government would ensure that the Pentland Firth’s tidal power, oil supply base and sea transport hub features would all be treated as one National Development under the National Planning framework.
He also asked if the soon-to-be-published Strategic Transport Projects Review would treat as one high priority speedier rail, safer road, enhanced harbours and an all-weather landing scheme for Wick airport.
The First Minister said that he would consider the proposals.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"The First Minster's response was encouraging. Alex Salmond and Ministers are well aware of the great potential that exists in the Pentland Firth and the positive impact that it can make to the entire Scottish economy. To me it makes sense therefore to treat the developments of renewable energy, harbour and oil hub's as well as improved transport as a national priority. This complementary development will help the region become a power house for the Nation and beyond."
"In the past infrastructure has lagged be development, for example in Nigg the houses weren't built in Alness and Invergordon till much later and the firth bridges took even more time to be built. Whilst in Kishorn the road was never improved during the life of the oil yard. This must not be the same tale for development in the Far North."
"I have also written to the Transport and Energy Minster's making this case. I hope that MSP's regardless of political colours will show their support for developments in the Firth and help back my call. The cat calling and barracking from Labour MSP's during my question was disappointing. Serious questions about developments for remote and rural areas are exciting I would expect them to see the possibilities."
ENDS
Immediate release
02/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has labeled as encouraging an answer from the First Minster that the Scottish Government will consider making infrastructure improvements related to Pentland Firth developments a national priority.
Mr Gibson questioned Alex Salmond during First Ministers Question Time. He asked if the Scottish Government would ensure that the Pentland Firth’s tidal power, oil supply base and sea transport hub features would all be treated as one National Development under the National Planning framework.
He also asked if the soon-to-be-published Strategic Transport Projects Review would treat as one high priority speedier rail, safer road, enhanced harbours and an all-weather landing scheme for Wick airport.
The First Minister said that he would consider the proposals.
Speaking after Mr Gibson said…
"The First Minster's response was encouraging. Alex Salmond and Ministers are well aware of the great potential that exists in the Pentland Firth and the positive impact that it can make to the entire Scottish economy. To me it makes sense therefore to treat the developments of renewable energy, harbour and oil hub's as well as improved transport as a national priority. This complementary development will help the region become a power house for the Nation and beyond."
"In the past infrastructure has lagged be development, for example in Nigg the houses weren't built in Alness and Invergordon till much later and the firth bridges took even more time to be built. Whilst in Kishorn the road was never improved during the life of the oil yard. This must not be the same tale for development in the Far North."
"I have also written to the Transport and Energy Minster's making this case. I hope that MSP's regardless of political colours will show their support for developments in the Firth and help back my call. The cat calling and barracking from Labour MSP's during my question was disappointing. Serious questions about developments for remote and rural areas are exciting I would expect them to see the possibilities."
ENDS
Gibson hails Wick Academy's Scottish Cup success
News release - sports release
Immediate release
02/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has lodged a motion in Parliament to congratulate Wick Academy FC on their recent success in reaching the second round of the Scottish Cup.
Mr Gibson recognised the commitment put in at all levels of the club:
"What a fantastic result for Wick Academy on Saturday - a marvellous achievement considering the travelling involved - but the win must have made the trip home a lot easier!"
"We hope that all the Highland League teams still involved in the Scottish Cup, whether it be replays this Saturday or the second round on 25 October, continue in this fine form and advance even further in the competition."
"This success is so important to the continuing development of football and sport in the Highlands and these are players that our youngsters can look up to and try to emulate."
ENDS
Copy of Motion
S3M-02643 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): Wick Academy FC Advance— That the Parliament congratulates Wick Academy FC for advancing to the second round of the Scottish Cup with a fantastic win against St Cuthberts FC on Saturday 27 September 2008; recognises the importance of this success to developing football in the Highlands; applauds the players for their commitment to the club and enduring one of the longest round trips for a single game in Scottish Cup history, and wishes Wick Academy and all the Highland League teams good luck for the replays on Saturday 4 October 2008 and the second round on Saturday 25 October 2008.
Immediate release
02/10/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has lodged a motion in Parliament to congratulate Wick Academy FC on their recent success in reaching the second round of the Scottish Cup.
Mr Gibson recognised the commitment put in at all levels of the club:
"What a fantastic result for Wick Academy on Saturday - a marvellous achievement considering the travelling involved - but the win must have made the trip home a lot easier!"
"We hope that all the Highland League teams still involved in the Scottish Cup, whether it be replays this Saturday or the second round on 25 October, continue in this fine form and advance even further in the competition."
"This success is so important to the continuing development of football and sport in the Highlands and these are players that our youngsters can look up to and try to emulate."
ENDS
Copy of Motion
S3M-02643 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): Wick Academy FC Advance— That the Parliament congratulates Wick Academy FC for advancing to the second round of the Scottish Cup with a fantastic win against St Cuthberts FC on Saturday 27 September 2008; recognises the importance of this success to developing football in the Highlands; applauds the players for their commitment to the club and enduring one of the longest round trips for a single game in Scottish Cup history, and wishes Wick Academy and all the Highland League teams good luck for the replays on Saturday 4 October 2008 and the second round on Saturday 25 October 2008.
Gibson welcomes Ministerial response to Shucksmith report
News release
Immediate release
01/10/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has welcomed the ministerial response to the Shucksmith Report to take forward a strong measure of crofting reform.
Mr Gibson, who is a longstanding member of the Scottish Crofting Foundation and its predecessor the Scottish Crofters Union, said there is a particular need to review the outcomes of the regulatory procedures which occupy so much of the staff time in the Crofters Commission.
"I am delighted that the Minister, Mike Russell, has signalled the need for an elected element in the oversight of Commission procedures. I believe that crofters in the six districts outlined need to express their priorities so that crofting can grow and flourish and not be strangled in red tape."
" When you meet crofters away from the high profile public meetings which have appeared in the press there is a strong desire to get more local input to guide the regulatory process and a wish to see crofting develop in ways that are suitable to each crofting area. I will press these demands with the Scottish Government so that all the specific plans included in Shucksmith which the minister has endorsed can then be taken forward. It is an exciting time to embed crofting in the land use priorities of the nation."
ENDS
Immediate release
01/10/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has welcomed the ministerial response to the Shucksmith Report to take forward a strong measure of crofting reform.
Mr Gibson, who is a longstanding member of the Scottish Crofting Foundation and its predecessor the Scottish Crofters Union, said there is a particular need to review the outcomes of the regulatory procedures which occupy so much of the staff time in the Crofters Commission.
"I am delighted that the Minister, Mike Russell, has signalled the need for an elected element in the oversight of Commission procedures. I believe that crofters in the six districts outlined need to express their priorities so that crofting can grow and flourish and not be strangled in red tape."
" When you meet crofters away from the high profile public meetings which have appeared in the press there is a strong desire to get more local input to guide the regulatory process and a wish to see crofting develop in ways that are suitable to each crofting area. I will press these demands with the Scottish Government so that all the specific plans included in Shucksmith which the minister has endorsed can then be taken forward. It is an exciting time to embed crofting in the land use priorities of the nation."
ENDS
Wednesday, 1 October 2008
Gibson looks forward to Pentland Firth marine renewable future
News release
Immediate release
30/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed an announcement form First Minister Alex Salmond which will pave the way for major renewable energy development in the Pentland Firth
Mr Gibson was speaking following the Caithness Regeneration Conference which was addressed by the First Minister. Mr Gibson said that the commitment shown by the SNP Government to renewable energy will pay great dividend to the economies of Caithness, Orkney and North Sutherland.
The First Minister announced during the conference that Scottish Power has identified the Pentland Firth (as well as the Sound of Islay) as the first sites for commercial tidal farms, and that the Crown Estates has decide to open the Pentland Firth seabed for commercial marine energy projects to generate more than 700MW of energy by 2020. Mr Gibson said:
"This is extremely welcome news for Caithness Orkney and beyond. The First Minister's announcement marks the start of a new period in marine renewable development and it is clear that the Pentland as well as the areas bordering it will the centre of that development.
" "As the First Minister said the Pentland Firth can be the Saudi Arabia of marine power which makes his announcement great news for the North's renewables industry, as well as the local and national environment and economy."
"The conference was a success and shows that the wide community of Caithness is focusing in on moving towards a new future where marine renewables will be the major focus, the organiseres deserve huge credit for their work."
"The enormous opportunities that the Pentland Firth offers mean increased investment, more jobs and new opportunities. I find that prospect exciting."
ENDS
Immediate release
30/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed an announcement form First Minister Alex Salmond which will pave the way for major renewable energy development in the Pentland Firth
Mr Gibson was speaking following the Caithness Regeneration Conference which was addressed by the First Minister. Mr Gibson said that the commitment shown by the SNP Government to renewable energy will pay great dividend to the economies of Caithness, Orkney and North Sutherland.
The First Minister announced during the conference that Scottish Power has identified the Pentland Firth (as well as the Sound of Islay) as the first sites for commercial tidal farms, and that the Crown Estates has decide to open the Pentland Firth seabed for commercial marine energy projects to generate more than 700MW of energy by 2020. Mr Gibson said:
"This is extremely welcome news for Caithness Orkney and beyond. The First Minister's announcement marks the start of a new period in marine renewable development and it is clear that the Pentland as well as the areas bordering it will the centre of that development.
" "As the First Minister said the Pentland Firth can be the Saudi Arabia of marine power which makes his announcement great news for the North's renewables industry, as well as the local and national environment and economy."
"The conference was a success and shows that the wide community of Caithness is focusing in on moving towards a new future where marine renewables will be the major focus, the organiseres deserve huge credit for their work."
"The enormous opportunities that the Pentland Firth offers mean increased investment, more jobs and new opportunities. I find that prospect exciting."
ENDS
Thursday, 25 September 2008
Call for infrastructure investment to help propel Caithness and Orkney to the forefront
News release
Immediate release
24/09/08
The Pentland Firth and the land bordering it will be of strategic importance to the whole of Scotland according to SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands Rob Gibson.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated Caithness Regeneration Conference in Thurso (this Monday) Mr Gibson said that Caithness and Orkney were on the brink of a future of unparallel importance. However he warned that the investment made in marine development must be matched by similar investment on land.
He said….
"It is not entirely clear the amount of investment that will go into the Pentland Firth, however it is going to be a vast sum. Therefore money must be invested in transport improvement in existing facilities (such as harbours) so that the areas bordering the firth will have a chance to flourish."
"You can look at the tidal devices in Portugal currently generating 2-3 megawatts, that is small beer to the potential that lies off the coast of Caithness. The truly positive force that Caithness, Orkney and the Pentland itself can deliver is not confined in a local or national context but I believe can truly be global. However this will never happen if the facilities are not in place."
"That means ease of transport links to and from the North, state of the art ports which can cope with heavy traffic and goods, get the basics right and the North Coast as well as the Orkney will be at the forefront of the global economy and scientific world. That's why my colleagues in the Transport, Infrastructure and climate change committee this week decided to look at the petition of the association of Caithness Community Councils in their review of the Strategic Transport Projects Review when it is published by the Government."
"At the moment the cost of such infrastructure may seem problematic for a sparsely populated area but compared to the dividends which could (and I believe will) flow from the Pentland Firth then in years to come people will say it was a small price worth paying."
ENDS
Immediate release
24/09/08
The Pentland Firth and the land bordering it will be of strategic importance to the whole of Scotland according to SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands Rob Gibson.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated Caithness Regeneration Conference in Thurso (this Monday) Mr Gibson said that Caithness and Orkney were on the brink of a future of unparallel importance. However he warned that the investment made in marine development must be matched by similar investment on land.
He said….
"It is not entirely clear the amount of investment that will go into the Pentland Firth, however it is going to be a vast sum. Therefore money must be invested in transport improvement in existing facilities (such as harbours) so that the areas bordering the firth will have a chance to flourish."
"You can look at the tidal devices in Portugal currently generating 2-3 megawatts, that is small beer to the potential that lies off the coast of Caithness. The truly positive force that Caithness, Orkney and the Pentland itself can deliver is not confined in a local or national context but I believe can truly be global. However this will never happen if the facilities are not in place."
"That means ease of transport links to and from the North, state of the art ports which can cope with heavy traffic and goods, get the basics right and the North Coast as well as the Orkney will be at the forefront of the global economy and scientific world. That's why my colleagues in the Transport, Infrastructure and climate change committee this week decided to look at the petition of the association of Caithness Community Councils in their review of the Strategic Transport Projects Review when it is published by the Government."
"At the moment the cost of such infrastructure may seem problematic for a sparsely populated area but compared to the dividends which could (and I believe will) flow from the Pentland Firth then in years to come people will say it was a small price worth paying."
ENDS
Gibson welcomes Highland recycling funding
News release
Immediate release
24/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a funding package announced from the Scottish Government which is aimed at reducing waste throughout the Country.
Under the INCREASE III funding package announcement by Rural Secretary Richard Lochead 7 groups from Orkney top Tiree will receive a total of nearly £850,000 to help with specific projects which will reduce waste.
They are: (Format: Organisation - Town - Name of Project - Description - Amount Awarded)
Ross-Shire Waste Action Network Ltd - Dingwall, Highland - RoWAN: Towards Waste-free Communities Project Comprehensive public waste awareness project throughout the Highlands - £299,534.00
Golspie Recycling and Environmental Action Network Golspie, Highland GREAN Development Project Expasnion of recycling services into new materials and business services £242,063.00
Blythswood Care Evanton, Highland Re-use and Recycling Partnership Expansion of collection points at schools and local businesses £91,440.00
Employability Orkney (Restart Orkney) Orkney Restart Orkney - Enterprise Development Expansion of reuse project to increase capacity to collect more furniture and white goods £74,700.00
Tiree Environmental Action and Recycling Group Tiree Mobile Waste Agri-Plastic Recycling Service for Tiree Establishment of island wide collection service for plastics and other materials £9,810.00
Moray Waste Busters Limited Forres, Moray Completion of Site Development To complete the development of reuse centre at household recycling centre £37,142.00
Highland Real Nappy Project Grantown-on-Spey, Highland Real Nappies for Highland Babies Expansion of real nappy project in Highlands £176,787.00
Mr Gibson said….
"This is an excellent announcement it will go some way reducing waste in the Highlands and Islands. It shows the Scottish Government s commitment to tackling the waste problem."
"I am excited to see that funding is stretched the width and breath of the region and am excited by the projects that the money will fund. Real results will accrue from the this funding and it will not only benefit the environment but also the communities in the region."
ENDS
Immediate release
24/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a funding package announced from the Scottish Government which is aimed at reducing waste throughout the Country.
Under the INCREASE III funding package announcement by Rural Secretary Richard Lochead 7 groups from Orkney top Tiree will receive a total of nearly £850,000 to help with specific projects which will reduce waste.
They are: (Format: Organisation - Town - Name of Project - Description - Amount Awarded)
Ross-Shire Waste Action Network Ltd - Dingwall, Highland - RoWAN: Towards Waste-free Communities Project Comprehensive public waste awareness project throughout the Highlands - £299,534.00
Golspie Recycling and Environmental Action Network Golspie, Highland GREAN Development Project Expasnion of recycling services into new materials and business services £242,063.00
Blythswood Care Evanton, Highland Re-use and Recycling Partnership Expansion of collection points at schools and local businesses £91,440.00
Employability Orkney (Restart Orkney) Orkney Restart Orkney - Enterprise Development Expansion of reuse project to increase capacity to collect more furniture and white goods £74,700.00
Tiree Environmental Action and Recycling Group Tiree Mobile Waste Agri-Plastic Recycling Service for Tiree Establishment of island wide collection service for plastics and other materials £9,810.00
Moray Waste Busters Limited Forres, Moray Completion of Site Development To complete the development of reuse centre at household recycling centre £37,142.00
Highland Real Nappy Project Grantown-on-Spey, Highland Real Nappies for Highland Babies Expansion of real nappy project in Highlands £176,787.00
Mr Gibson said….
"This is an excellent announcement it will go some way reducing waste in the Highlands and Islands. It shows the Scottish Government s commitment to tackling the waste problem."
"I am excited to see that funding is stretched the width and breath of the region and am excited by the projects that the money will fund. Real results will accrue from the this funding and it will not only benefit the environment but also the communities in the region."
ENDS
Tuesday, 23 September 2008
Gibson welcomes trad arts funding commitment from Scottish Government
News release
Immediate release
22/09/08
A Scottish Government commitment to the future funding of Scottish traditional culture was welcomed by Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson this week.
The commitment came from Culture Minister Linda Fabiani during a recent exchange in parliament.
At Question Time Ms Fabiani confirmed that the Scottish Arts Council development managers had been asked to present a paper on all the outstanding strategic issues affecting organisations such as the Scottish Language Dictionaries, the Scots Language Centre, the Traditional Music and Song Association, the Scots Music Group and the Scottish Traditions of Dance group. This follows months of uncertainty when flexible funding was withdrawn from these bodies in a surprise move last May.
A musician and former traditional music festival organiser Mr Gibson said..
"The widespread alarm about cuts in funding and the recent demonstration at the Scottish Parliament received a positive response from Linda Fabiani. She has confirmed that organisations that missed out on flexible funding would be meeting with SAC in the very near future to discuss the matter.
" I was outraged to find out from the SNP Culture Minister that in 2006 ring fenced funding for the trad arts was stopped. That means that under the Labour LibDem Executive the Scottish Arts Council reduced the guarantees for our unique indigenous music. Surely a potentially damaging move in the days of the then culture minister, Labour's Patricia Ferguson should have raised alarm bells.
" I am delighted that Linda Fabiani is considering this situation carefully and are what can be done to safeguard our traditional arts."
"At last we have a Minister and Government which is committed to all parts of our culture. Traditional arts funding has far from ended as bodies like the Feisean Movement, Blas Festival and Celtic Connections are major beneficiaries, however those that feel aggrieved at a loss of funding will no doubt be heartened by the Minister's response."
"Traditional arts are part of the very soul of Scotland. I am glad to see Linda Fabiani making it a priority and working hard to come to a solution which will ensure its sustainable development."
ENDS
Immediate release
22/09/08
A Scottish Government commitment to the future funding of Scottish traditional culture was welcomed by Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson this week.
The commitment came from Culture Minister Linda Fabiani during a recent exchange in parliament.
At Question Time Ms Fabiani confirmed that the Scottish Arts Council development managers had been asked to present a paper on all the outstanding strategic issues affecting organisations such as the Scottish Language Dictionaries, the Scots Language Centre, the Traditional Music and Song Association, the Scots Music Group and the Scottish Traditions of Dance group. This follows months of uncertainty when flexible funding was withdrawn from these bodies in a surprise move last May.
A musician and former traditional music festival organiser Mr Gibson said..
"The widespread alarm about cuts in funding and the recent demonstration at the Scottish Parliament received a positive response from Linda Fabiani. She has confirmed that organisations that missed out on flexible funding would be meeting with SAC in the very near future to discuss the matter.
" I was outraged to find out from the SNP Culture Minister that in 2006 ring fenced funding for the trad arts was stopped. That means that under the Labour LibDem Executive the Scottish Arts Council reduced the guarantees for our unique indigenous music. Surely a potentially damaging move in the days of the then culture minister, Labour's Patricia Ferguson should have raised alarm bells.
" I am delighted that Linda Fabiani is considering this situation carefully and are what can be done to safeguard our traditional arts."
"At last we have a Minister and Government which is committed to all parts of our culture. Traditional arts funding has far from ended as bodies like the Feisean Movement, Blas Festival and Celtic Connections are major beneficiaries, however those that feel aggrieved at a loss of funding will no doubt be heartened by the Minister's response."
"Traditional arts are part of the very soul of Scotland. I am glad to see Linda Fabiani making it a priority and working hard to come to a solution which will ensure its sustainable development."
ENDS
Monday, 22 September 2008
Gibson welcomes trad arts funding commitment from Scottish Government
News release
Immediate release
22/09/08
A Scottish Government commitment to the future funding of Scottish traditional culture was welcomed by Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson this week.
The commitment came from Culture Minister Linda Fabiani during a recent exchange in Parliament.
At Question Time Ms Fabiani confirmed that the Scottish Arts Council development managers had been asked to present a paper on all the outstanding strategic issues affecting organisations such as the Scottish Language Dictionaries, the Scots Language Centre, the Traditional Music and Song Association, the Scots Music Group and the Scottish Traditions of Dance group. This follows months of uncertainty when flexible funding was withdrawn from these bodies in a surprise move last May.
A musician and former traditional music festival organiser, Mr Gibson said..
"The widespread alarm about cuts in funding and the recent demonstration at the Scottish Parliament received a positive response from Linda Fabiani. She has confirmed that organisations that missed out on flexible funding would be meeting with SAC in the very near future to discuss the matter.
" I was outraged to find out from the SNP Culture Minister that in 2006 ring fenced funding for the trad arts was stopped. That means that under the Labour LibDem Executive the Scottish Arts Council reduced the guarantees for our unique indigenous music. Surely a potentially damaging move in the days of the then culture minister, Labour's Patricia Ferguson should have raised alarm bells.
" I am delighted that Linda Fabiani is considering this situation carefully and are what can be done to safeguard our traditional arts."
"At last we have a Minister and Government which is committed to all parts of our culture. Traditional arts funding has far from ended as bodies like the Feisean Movement, Blas Festival and Celtic Connections are major beneficiaries, however those that feel aggrieved at a loss of funding will no doubt be heartened by the Minister's response."
"Traditional arts are part of the very soul of Scotland. I am glad to see Linda Fabiani making it a priority and working hard to come to a solution which will ensure its sustainable development."
ENDS
Immediate release
22/09/08
A Scottish Government commitment to the future funding of Scottish traditional culture was welcomed by Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson this week.
The commitment came from Culture Minister Linda Fabiani during a recent exchange in Parliament.
At Question Time Ms Fabiani confirmed that the Scottish Arts Council development managers had been asked to present a paper on all the outstanding strategic issues affecting organisations such as the Scottish Language Dictionaries, the Scots Language Centre, the Traditional Music and Song Association, the Scots Music Group and the Scottish Traditions of Dance group. This follows months of uncertainty when flexible funding was withdrawn from these bodies in a surprise move last May.
A musician and former traditional music festival organiser, Mr Gibson said..
"The widespread alarm about cuts in funding and the recent demonstration at the Scottish Parliament received a positive response from Linda Fabiani. She has confirmed that organisations that missed out on flexible funding would be meeting with SAC in the very near future to discuss the matter.
" I was outraged to find out from the SNP Culture Minister that in 2006 ring fenced funding for the trad arts was stopped. That means that under the Labour LibDem Executive the Scottish Arts Council reduced the guarantees for our unique indigenous music. Surely a potentially damaging move in the days of the then culture minister, Labour's Patricia Ferguson should have raised alarm bells.
" I am delighted that Linda Fabiani is considering this situation carefully and are what can be done to safeguard our traditional arts."
"At last we have a Minister and Government which is committed to all parts of our culture. Traditional arts funding has far from ended as bodies like the Feisean Movement, Blas Festival and Celtic Connections are major beneficiaries, however those that feel aggrieved at a loss of funding will no doubt be heartened by the Minister's response."
"Traditional arts are part of the very soul of Scotland. I am glad to see Linda Fabiani making it a priority and working hard to come to a solution which will ensure its sustainable development."
ENDS
Friday, 19 September 2008
Gibson welcomes money to end single crewing
News release
Immediate release
18/09/08
'One of the best pieces of news of extra spending in Parliament' is how Rob Gibson MSP greeted news that £4.7 million is to be given to Ambulance service in the Highlands and Islands and South West to end single crewing.
A long standing critic of the practice Mr Gibson praised SNP Health Secretary's Nicola Sturgeon announcement in Parliament...
"I have received many concerns from constituents regarding this issue and have made their feelings known to the Health Secretary. This is an issue which pre dated the SNP Government however whilst the Lib/Lab Executive did nothing it is the SNP who sorted it out. The end of single crewing will come as a great relief to people throughout the region."
After the announcement Mr Gibson gained an assurance from Nicola Sturgeon that ambulances would not be relocated from remote and rural areas to urban centers.
He also asked if part of the cash could be used to support the recruitment and training of staff in rural an remote areas, where house prices were high.
Ms Sturgeon responded that…
"It is important that the additional resources are allocated to areas where they are most needed. The key point about the additional staffing resources is that they will increase the relief capacity of the service, which is running considerably below what is considered to be the correct level. The additional resources will address that problem, and I am confident that they will address many of the legitimate issues that Rob Gibson and other members have consistently raised."
After the announcement Mr Gibson said…
"This is a great announcement for remote and rural areas in the North and West, it will see the end of single manning so often a major concern for people in the region. I genuinely believe that only an SNP Government could deliver that change. It shows that SNP Government cares for every part of Scotland and backs those sentiments up with actions. It is yet another refreshing change from 8 years of inaction of the Liberal Labour Executive."
ENDS
Immediate release
18/09/08
'One of the best pieces of news of extra spending in Parliament' is how Rob Gibson MSP greeted news that £4.7 million is to be given to Ambulance service in the Highlands and Islands and South West to end single crewing.
A long standing critic of the practice Mr Gibson praised SNP Health Secretary's Nicola Sturgeon announcement in Parliament...
"I have received many concerns from constituents regarding this issue and have made their feelings known to the Health Secretary. This is an issue which pre dated the SNP Government however whilst the Lib/Lab Executive did nothing it is the SNP who sorted it out. The end of single crewing will come as a great relief to people throughout the region."
After the announcement Mr Gibson gained an assurance from Nicola Sturgeon that ambulances would not be relocated from remote and rural areas to urban centers.
He also asked if part of the cash could be used to support the recruitment and training of staff in rural an remote areas, where house prices were high.
Ms Sturgeon responded that…
"It is important that the additional resources are allocated to areas where they are most needed. The key point about the additional staffing resources is that they will increase the relief capacity of the service, which is running considerably below what is considered to be the correct level. The additional resources will address that problem, and I am confident that they will address many of the legitimate issues that Rob Gibson and other members have consistently raised."
After the announcement Mr Gibson said…
"This is a great announcement for remote and rural areas in the North and West, it will see the end of single manning so often a major concern for people in the region. I genuinely believe that only an SNP Government could deliver that change. It shows that SNP Government cares for every part of Scotland and backs those sentiments up with actions. It is yet another refreshing change from 8 years of inaction of the Liberal Labour Executive."
ENDS
Monday, 15 September 2008
Plea not to ignore Highlands
Telecom companies told: Don’t leave us behind
By Sue Restan
Published: 15/09/2008
Politicians are calling for telecommunications companies to include the Highlands when rolling out new technology in the UK.
Maxine Smith, who is one of the councillors for Cromarty Firth ward, said they seemed to ignore rural areas.
She said the latest 3G mobile broadband service was not yet available in most of the Highlands.
It is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology, enabling network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced services while getting greater network capacity.
Services include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless data, all in a mobile environment.
“It is important that we do not accept being left behind with technology or being left out of companies' programmes when new concepts are thought of and introduced in other places in the UK,” said Councillor Smith.
“The Highlands is as important as any other area in Scotland, England or Wales and should be equal in terms of infrastructure and tech- nology.”
The SNP councillor added: “Now this issue has been brought to my attention, I will be lobbying different quarters until the Highlands is brought on to a level playing field.”
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson said he was about to do a consultation with people in various parts of the country about broadband rollout.
He is also keen to identify the places without 3G coverage.
Mr Gibson said: “My view is that the telecommunications companies could get a lot more business, from both Highland residents and visitors, if we had 3G.”A spokesman for Vodafone said 3G was available only in a small area around Inverness and an even smaller area in Elgin.
He said there were no plans to increase coverage in the next six months.
“The rollout is always going to be a business decision and coverage is focused on the major conurbations. As was the case with 2G, it is an evolving pattern of coverage,” said the spokesman.
An Orange spokeswoman said:
“We already offer 3G coverage in high population areas in the Highlands. We will continue to invest to enhance the experience for our customers.”
By Sue Restan
Published: 15/09/2008
Politicians are calling for telecommunications companies to include the Highlands when rolling out new technology in the UK.
Maxine Smith, who is one of the councillors for Cromarty Firth ward, said they seemed to ignore rural areas.
She said the latest 3G mobile broadband service was not yet available in most of the Highlands.
It is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology, enabling network operators to offer users a wider range of more advanced services while getting greater network capacity.
Services include wide-area wireless voice telephony, video calls, and broadband wireless data, all in a mobile environment.
“It is important that we do not accept being left behind with technology or being left out of companies' programmes when new concepts are thought of and introduced in other places in the UK,” said Councillor Smith.
“The Highlands is as important as any other area in Scotland, England or Wales and should be equal in terms of infrastructure and tech- nology.”
The SNP councillor added: “Now this issue has been brought to my attention, I will be lobbying different quarters until the Highlands is brought on to a level playing field.”
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson said he was about to do a consultation with people in various parts of the country about broadband rollout.
He is also keen to identify the places without 3G coverage.
Mr Gibson said: “My view is that the telecommunications companies could get a lot more business, from both Highland residents and visitors, if we had 3G.”A spokesman for Vodafone said 3G was available only in a small area around Inverness and an even smaller area in Elgin.
He said there were no plans to increase coverage in the next six months.
“The rollout is always going to be a business decision and coverage is focused on the major conurbations. As was the case with 2G, it is an evolving pattern of coverage,” said the spokesman.
An Orange spokeswoman said:
“We already offer 3G coverage in high population areas in the Highlands. We will continue to invest to enhance the experience for our customers.”
Saturday, 13 September 2008
Pentland Firth not set to close - Gibson
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Friday, 12 September 2008
Pentland Firth not set to close - Gibson
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Pentland Firth not set to close - Gibson
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Pentland Firth not set to close - Gibson
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
News release
Immediate release
12/09/08
An SNH consultation to protect birds will not close the Pentland Firth to marine development - that's how Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson summed up a recent consultation by SNH into 31 Special Protection Areas (SPA's) around Scotland.
Mr Gibson felt compelled to set the record straight after following recent comments from prominent Caithness Councillors.
Mr Gibson, who has already held informal talks with SNH Chairman Andrew Thin and is due to have further discussions in the near future, said....
"It really irks me to read these reactionary quotes which fail to understand the consultation or inform the public. I am happy to set the record straight.
"The Scottish Government asked SNH to look into extending the current 31 marine SPA's. SNH did their job identified the sites and the consultation followed. The Government has made it clear that they want to know about the constraints on developments that the extension to an SPA would have. The consultation is advice for the Scottish Government it is not an instruction. It is clearly stated that the final decision will be taken by Scottish Government Minister. "
" Perhaps the vocal critics should put a submission into the consultation before claiming that the Pentland Firth will be closed to development."
"The Scottish Government unequivocally backs the development of renewable energy. Indeed it sees the Pentland Firth as the ideal place to do it. Last week the First Minister welcomed the latest marine development. The new Scottish Government has done more to push forward the reality of marine power than 8 years of the last Lib/Lab Executive's."
"I don’t wish to pre-empt the findings of the consultation or the decision of the Scottish Government but I would be greatly surprised if the Pentland Firth was to be closed for marine energy production. Marine spatial planning will be enshrined in the new Marine Bill so the SPA around Dunnet Head will not be extended to the detriment of potential tidal development grounds."
ENDS
Thursday, 11 September 2008
Gibson welcomes marine milestone
News release
11/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has hailed the news that OpenHydro has successfully mounted a tidal turbine on the sea bed of the Pentland Firth.
The device was lowered onto the sea bed by a unique barge which was developed by OpenHydro for the purpose and is the only one of it's kind in the world (whose home port is Kirkwall).
Commenting on the news Mr Gibson said...
"This is a monumental moment in the development of the Pentland firth and will go down as a milestone in the furtherance of green energy both in Scotland, Europe and the world."
"Great credit has to go to the European Marine Energy Research Centre and OpenHydro for their sterling work which has led to this situation. It shows what can be achieved through co-operation and a common purpose."
ENDS
11/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has hailed the news that OpenHydro has successfully mounted a tidal turbine on the sea bed of the Pentland Firth.
The device was lowered onto the sea bed by a unique barge which was developed by OpenHydro for the purpose and is the only one of it's kind in the world (whose home port is Kirkwall).
Commenting on the news Mr Gibson said...
"This is a monumental moment in the development of the Pentland firth and will go down as a milestone in the furtherance of green energy both in Scotland, Europe and the world."
"Great credit has to go to the European Marine Energy Research Centre and OpenHydro for their sterling work which has led to this situation. It shows what can be achieved through co-operation and a common purpose."
ENDS
Gibson hails 'Fishing for Litter' initiative
FOR IMMEDIATE USE: 11TH SEPTEMBER 2008
ATTENTION: NEWS DESKS
GIBSON HAILS ‘FISHING FOR LITTER’ INITIATIVE
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has hailed the ‘Fishing for Litter’ initiative coordinated by KIMO International, a pan Local Authority International
Environmental Association, by lodging a congratulatory motion in the Scottish Parliament today.
The initiative has encouraged 54 fishing boats from the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden to voluntarily collect over 400 tonnes of litter from the North Sea already. Over the next three years the initiative aims to encourage 100 boats to
collect another 500 tonnes of marine litter from the waters around Scotland.
Commenting, Mr Gibson said...
"This is an excellent example of the kind of attitude everyone should take toward preserving our environment. I was only too happy to commend KIMO international and all the fishermen involved with the project in my motion to the Parliament. "
"Litter in the North Sea is not only environmentally damaging but also costs thousands per year in lost time, damage to nets, fouled propellers and contaminated catches. The Save the North Sea project demonstrated that, on average, each tonne of marine litter that accumulates in fisherman’s nets costs £1,300 in lost time alone. This goes to show that voluntary work such as this does pay off in the end."
Jimmy Buchan, skipper of the Amity II and one of the stars of the TV's "Trawlermen" series, has been participating in the initiative for several years and commented on Rob's motion saying:
"It's a great programme and from a fisherman's perspective I can tell you that it's working. Each year I go out I'm catching less and less litter and it's because of what we as fisherman are doing. We're going about our day to day jobs but also picking up this litter and disposing of it in a responsible manner and that is having a noticeable positive effect."
ENDS
NOTE:
Copy of motion to the Scottish Parliament:
Short Title: Fishing for Litter
S3M-02531 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): That the Parliament congratulates KIMO International and all the fisherman involved in the Fishing for Litter initiative; commends their work in reducing North Sea marine littering by bringing ashore litter gathered in their nets while fishing; applauds the goal of the initiative to encourage 100 boats to take part with the aim of collecting 500 tonnes of marine litter from the waters around Scotland over the next three years; notes that 400 tonnes of litter have already been collected by the 54 boats involved in the imitative, which is run in the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden, and finally notes its benefit for all those using the North Sea and UK beaches as well as the positive financial impact on the UK fishing industry due to a reduction in the amount of marine litter.
Link to KIMO International's Save the North Sea Project comprising the initiative:
http://www.kimointernational.org/Projects.aspx
ATTENTION: NEWS DESKS
GIBSON HAILS ‘FISHING FOR LITTER’ INITIATIVE
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has hailed the ‘Fishing for Litter’ initiative coordinated by KIMO International, a pan Local Authority International
Environmental Association, by lodging a congratulatory motion in the Scottish Parliament today.
The initiative has encouraged 54 fishing boats from the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden to voluntarily collect over 400 tonnes of litter from the North Sea already. Over the next three years the initiative aims to encourage 100 boats to
collect another 500 tonnes of marine litter from the waters around Scotland.
Commenting, Mr Gibson said...
"This is an excellent example of the kind of attitude everyone should take toward preserving our environment. I was only too happy to commend KIMO international and all the fishermen involved with the project in my motion to the Parliament. "
"Litter in the North Sea is not only environmentally damaging but also costs thousands per year in lost time, damage to nets, fouled propellers and contaminated catches. The Save the North Sea project demonstrated that, on average, each tonne of marine litter that accumulates in fisherman’s nets costs £1,300 in lost time alone. This goes to show that voluntary work such as this does pay off in the end."
Jimmy Buchan, skipper of the Amity II and one of the stars of the TV's "Trawlermen" series, has been participating in the initiative for several years and commented on Rob's motion saying:
"It's a great programme and from a fisherman's perspective I can tell you that it's working. Each year I go out I'm catching less and less litter and it's because of what we as fisherman are doing. We're going about our day to day jobs but also picking up this litter and disposing of it in a responsible manner and that is having a noticeable positive effect."
ENDS
NOTE:
Copy of motion to the Scottish Parliament:
Short Title: Fishing for Litter
S3M-02531 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): That the Parliament congratulates KIMO International and all the fisherman involved in the Fishing for Litter initiative; commends their work in reducing North Sea marine littering by bringing ashore litter gathered in their nets while fishing; applauds the goal of the initiative to encourage 100 boats to take part with the aim of collecting 500 tonnes of marine litter from the waters around Scotland over the next three years; notes that 400 tonnes of litter have already been collected by the 54 boats involved in the imitative, which is run in the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden, and finally notes its benefit for all those using the North Sea and UK beaches as well as the positive financial impact on the UK fishing industry due to a reduction in the amount of marine litter.
Link to KIMO International's Save the North Sea Project comprising the initiative:
http://www.kimointernational.org/Projects.aspx
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Gibson calls for wider screening of BBC Alba
News release
Immediate release
10/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson Is calling on the UK Government and BBC to allow the BBC's new Gaelic channel to be available to terrestrial viewers via freeview as soon as possible.
BBC Alba, which launches next week, will only be available to satellite viewers. It is not due to be put on freeview until the digital switch over (due for 2010) and that will be subject to a review from the BBC Trust.
Mr Gibson said..
"I very much welcome the launch of the Gaelic service. I wish all those involved with it the best of luck and am sure it will go onto be a success. The potential to promote the language and culture through a dedicated channel is genuinely exciting and the possibilities are vast."
"However the rather large fly in the ointment is that for around a year and a half it will only be available through satellite. Given the public money being spent on the channel and the fact that it is under the banner of BBC it strikes me as ridiculous that it will only be available to those that have private satellite rental. The fact that the appearance on freeview is subject to a review by the BBC Trust is a worry. If they do not give the go ahead then it could really stymie the development and impact that the channel could have."
"I am not entirely sure how and why this situation came about, but in the light of the Broadcasting Commission For Scotland's report which seeks more access to Scottish output for Scottish viewers, I hope that a speedy and sensible decision can be reached and that we see BBC Alba on freeview before 2010."
ENDS
Note:
Copy of Motion Rob lodged in parliament
S3M-02511 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): BBC Alba - Speed Up Freeview Option— That the Parliament welcomes the launch of the BBC Alba Gaelic television channel; wishes that all those involved will make the service a success; notes the potential that it has to boost the profile of the Gaelic language while informing and entertaining people throughout the country; however also notes, with disappointment, the fact that this service is not intended to be available through Freeview until after the digital switchover and that this will be subject to a review by the BBC Trust, and calls on the UK Government and BBC to speed up this process so that the channel has the chance to be watched by Gaels and non-Gaels throughout the nation who possess a Freeview box but do not have cable nor a satellite television.
Immediate release
10/09/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson Is calling on the UK Government and BBC to allow the BBC's new Gaelic channel to be available to terrestrial viewers via freeview as soon as possible.
BBC Alba, which launches next week, will only be available to satellite viewers. It is not due to be put on freeview until the digital switch over (due for 2010) and that will be subject to a review from the BBC Trust.
Mr Gibson said..
"I very much welcome the launch of the Gaelic service. I wish all those involved with it the best of luck and am sure it will go onto be a success. The potential to promote the language and culture through a dedicated channel is genuinely exciting and the possibilities are vast."
"However the rather large fly in the ointment is that for around a year and a half it will only be available through satellite. Given the public money being spent on the channel and the fact that it is under the banner of BBC it strikes me as ridiculous that it will only be available to those that have private satellite rental. The fact that the appearance on freeview is subject to a review by the BBC Trust is a worry. If they do not give the go ahead then it could really stymie the development and impact that the channel could have."
"I am not entirely sure how and why this situation came about, but in the light of the Broadcasting Commission For Scotland's report which seeks more access to Scottish output for Scottish viewers, I hope that a speedy and sensible decision can be reached and that we see BBC Alba on freeview before 2010."
ENDS
Note:
Copy of Motion Rob lodged in parliament
S3M-02511 Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (Scottish National Party): BBC Alba - Speed Up Freeview Option— That the Parliament welcomes the launch of the BBC Alba Gaelic television channel; wishes that all those involved will make the service a success; notes the potential that it has to boost the profile of the Gaelic language while informing and entertaining people throughout the country; however also notes, with disappointment, the fact that this service is not intended to be available through Freeview until after the digital switchover and that this will be subject to a review by the BBC Trust, and calls on the UK Government and BBC to speed up this process so that the channel has the chance to be watched by Gaels and non-Gaels throughout the nation who possess a Freeview box but do not have cable nor a satellite television.
Monday, 8 September 2008
Gibson welcomes report's findings
News release
Immediate release
08/09/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has welcomed the conclusions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh into the crisis in hills and Islands Agriculture.
Some of the key findings are that Scotland needs to:
● recognise that the continuing decline in hill and island agriculture has implications for biodiversity, landscape management and food security
● develop a Strategic Land Use Policy Framework to provide a more integrated and coordinated basis for decision-making
● substantial shifts in decision-making and delivery of public resources from centrally-based agencies to regionally-based structures
● recognise the importance of tourism and stimulating economic growth and radically reform the support structures for tourism
● halt the closure of rural post offices until a new, wider rationale is developed
● recognise that combating climate change now needs to be a major factor and that the EU should be urged to give credit to forestry investment in meeting emissions targets.
Commenting on the report entitled 'Committee of enquiry into the future of Scotland's hills and islands' he said,
"Many of the Society's recommendations underline the need for more powers over land use policy in Scotland. Investment as well as more hands-on local planning are both required. But undoubtedly the maintenance of crofts and family farms growing mixed crops and livestock are a key component. Clearly the small size of such farms retains more people. Also the Cap's Single Farm Payment scheme has paid producers who have failed to continue to produce. It must be reformed to support the needs of least favoured areas and small producers."
"Meanwhile the UK has powers to save post offices, arrange a favourable connection regime for renewable energy and taper fuel prices would all be required. These have not been applied, therefore the Royal Society report is only part of the solution. Independence and a much more devolved decision taking structure within Scotland will be the real saviour of our rural and island economy."
Note to editor:
Link to report
http://www.rse.org.uk/enquiries/hill_and_island_areas/index.htm
Immediate release
08/09/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for Highlands and Islands has welcomed the conclusions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh into the crisis in hills and Islands Agriculture.
Some of the key findings are that Scotland needs to:
● recognise that the continuing decline in hill and island agriculture has implications for biodiversity, landscape management and food security
● develop a Strategic Land Use Policy Framework to provide a more integrated and coordinated basis for decision-making
● substantial shifts in decision-making and delivery of public resources from centrally-based agencies to regionally-based structures
● recognise the importance of tourism and stimulating economic growth and radically reform the support structures for tourism
● halt the closure of rural post offices until a new, wider rationale is developed
● recognise that combating climate change now needs to be a major factor and that the EU should be urged to give credit to forestry investment in meeting emissions targets.
Commenting on the report entitled 'Committee of enquiry into the future of Scotland's hills and islands' he said,
"Many of the Society's recommendations underline the need for more powers over land use policy in Scotland. Investment as well as more hands-on local planning are both required. But undoubtedly the maintenance of crofts and family farms growing mixed crops and livestock are a key component. Clearly the small size of such farms retains more people. Also the Cap's Single Farm Payment scheme has paid producers who have failed to continue to produce. It must be reformed to support the needs of least favoured areas and small producers."
"Meanwhile the UK has powers to save post offices, arrange a favourable connection regime for renewable energy and taper fuel prices would all be required. These have not been applied, therefore the Royal Society report is only part of the solution. Independence and a much more devolved decision taking structure within Scotland will be the real saviour of our rural and island economy."
Note to editor:
Link to report
http://www.rse.org.uk/enquiries/hill_and_island_areas/index.htm
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Gibson urges volunteers for children's panel
News release
Immediate release
02/09/08
SNP MSP Rob Gibson has urged adults in the Highlands and Islands to help improve the prospects for children who have been neglected or abused by getting involved in children's panels.
Mr Gibson was talking at the start of this year's campaign to recruit more children's panel members.
He said...
"The Children's Panel is an important institution in public life. It can make a real change on the lives for youngsters who have undergone a turbulent time in their lives.
"By listening to those that have been neglected, abused or have fallen foul of the law and ensuring support is in place early we can improve the future outlook for them, the locality and Scotland as a whole."
"Children's panels can help children realise their potential, however for them to continue there needs to be volunteers. No special qualifications are needed and people from all backgrounds will help deliver a balanced system to improve the life chances for young people in the region."
ENDS
Note to Editor:
Ways to apply to join the panel:
Call: 0845 601 2770
Text: Panel3 to 61611
Website: http://www.blogger.com/www.infoscotland.com/childrenspanel
Immediate release
02/09/08
SNP MSP Rob Gibson has urged adults in the Highlands and Islands to help improve the prospects for children who have been neglected or abused by getting involved in children's panels.
Mr Gibson was talking at the start of this year's campaign to recruit more children's panel members.
He said...
"The Children's Panel is an important institution in public life. It can make a real change on the lives for youngsters who have undergone a turbulent time in their lives.
"By listening to those that have been neglected, abused or have fallen foul of the law and ensuring support is in place early we can improve the future outlook for them, the locality and Scotland as a whole."
"Children's panels can help children realise their potential, however for them to continue there needs to be volunteers. No special qualifications are needed and people from all backgrounds will help deliver a balanced system to improve the life chances for young people in the region."
ENDS
Note to Editor:
Ways to apply to join the panel:
Call: 0845 601 2770
Text: Panel3 to 61611
Website: http://www.blogger.com/www.infoscotland.com/childrenspanel
Sunday, 31 August 2008
Gibson corrects 'geographically challenged' Peacock
News release
Immediate release
31/08/08
SNP MSP has called Peter Peacock 'geographically challenged' after the Labour MSP claimed that there was no Highlands and Islands representation on the Scottish Governments Food and Drink Leadership Forum.
Mr Gibson pointed out that one of the members, Ken Mackenzie, was born, schooled and lives in the Highlands.
Mr Mackenzie grew up in Drumnadrochit, studied at Inverness Royal Academy, and lives in Inverness. He was heavily involved in the year of Highland Culture as well as communities throughout the region in his capacity as Chief Officer for the Scottish Co-op.
MR Gibson said...
"Last time I checked Inverness was still the capital of the Highlands and Drumnadrochit hadn't magically moved to a greenfeild site outside Barcelona. That seems to suggest to me that some one hailing from Drumnadrochit and living in Inverness is indeed a Highlander. So the claim that there is no Highland Representation on the forum is wrong, unless Peter Peacock and the Labour Party knows something about geography that I don't."
"I find it fairly amusing and mildly worrying that a former convener of Highland Council and Education Minister could be that geographically challenged! I know that Scottish Labour are looking to go in a new direction, I only hope (for their sake) that Peter Peacocks isn't their navigator! Or they might find themselves up the strath without a paddle!"
"Are Labour prepared to support the working groups from throughout Scotland that will help build the first National Food Policy Scotland has had?"
ENDS
Immediate release
31/08/08
SNP MSP has called Peter Peacock 'geographically challenged' after the Labour MSP claimed that there was no Highlands and Islands representation on the Scottish Governments Food and Drink Leadership Forum.
Mr Gibson pointed out that one of the members, Ken Mackenzie, was born, schooled and lives in the Highlands.
Mr Mackenzie grew up in Drumnadrochit, studied at Inverness Royal Academy, and lives in Inverness. He was heavily involved in the year of Highland Culture as well as communities throughout the region in his capacity as Chief Officer for the Scottish Co-op.
MR Gibson said...
"Last time I checked Inverness was still the capital of the Highlands and Drumnadrochit hadn't magically moved to a greenfeild site outside Barcelona. That seems to suggest to me that some one hailing from Drumnadrochit and living in Inverness is indeed a Highlander. So the claim that there is no Highland Representation on the forum is wrong, unless Peter Peacock and the Labour Party knows something about geography that I don't."
"I find it fairly amusing and mildly worrying that a former convener of Highland Council and Education Minister could be that geographically challenged! I know that Scottish Labour are looking to go in a new direction, I only hope (for their sake) that Peter Peacocks isn't their navigator! Or they might find themselves up the strath without a paddle!"
"Are Labour prepared to support the working groups from throughout Scotland that will help build the first National Food Policy Scotland has had?"
ENDS
Friday, 29 August 2008
Games act review announced
News release/Environment Release
Immediate release
29/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a response from the Scottish Government that it will start a review of the Games Act before the end of the year.
The response came from Environment Minister Michael Russell in a Parliamentary question on the subject from Rob Gibson.
The Minister stated that the Government intends to carry out a review into the Act before the end of the year.
Mr Gibson, who challenged the Scottish Executive to carry out a similar review 4 years ago when the EU prosecuted the UK for failing to sufficiently protect: black grouse, ptarmigan, red grouse and partridge, said…..
"I welcome the Scottish Government's pro-active response. The intention to review the Game Acts before the year's end is good news. It will allow stakeholders to have their say before changes are proposed."
"For my part the longstanding anomalies of grouse, black grouse and ptarmigan being both game birds and environmentally endangered species has always been a puzzle. I hope that common sense can prevail and that a new regime of protection for all wild birds will result."
"The Scottish Executive did not agree to a review when asked in the past. The new attitude shown by the SNP Government is most welcome and shows it values both sustainable economic development in rural areas and protection of endangered species."
ENDS
NOTE
Copy of Q & A regarding gaming laws:
SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WRITTEN QUESTION
29 August 2008Index Heading: Rural Affairs and the Environment - Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive whether it intends to conduct a review of the Game Acts and, if so, when the review will commence, what its timescale will be and what opportunities will be available for stakeholders to make a contribution.(S3W-15510)
SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WRITTEN ANSWER
Mr Michael Russell:
The Scottish Government does intend to conduct a review of the Game Acts, which will commence before the end of the year. Early tasks will be to assess the scope of work required and to set a realistic timeframe. Part of the process will be a public consultation, providing stakeholders the opportunity to contribute.
SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE
Immediate release
29/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed a response from the Scottish Government that it will start a review of the Games Act before the end of the year.
The response came from Environment Minister Michael Russell in a Parliamentary question on the subject from Rob Gibson.
The Minister stated that the Government intends to carry out a review into the Act before the end of the year.
Mr Gibson, who challenged the Scottish Executive to carry out a similar review 4 years ago when the EU prosecuted the UK for failing to sufficiently protect: black grouse, ptarmigan, red grouse and partridge, said…..
"I welcome the Scottish Government's pro-active response. The intention to review the Game Acts before the year's end is good news. It will allow stakeholders to have their say before changes are proposed."
"For my part the longstanding anomalies of grouse, black grouse and ptarmigan being both game birds and environmentally endangered species has always been a puzzle. I hope that common sense can prevail and that a new regime of protection for all wild birds will result."
"The Scottish Executive did not agree to a review when asked in the past. The new attitude shown by the SNP Government is most welcome and shows it values both sustainable economic development in rural areas and protection of endangered species."
ENDS
NOTE
Copy of Q & A regarding gaming laws:
SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WRITTEN QUESTION
29 August 2008Index Heading: Rural Affairs and the Environment - Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive whether it intends to conduct a review of the Game Acts and, if so, when the review will commence, what its timescale will be and what opportunities will be available for stakeholders to make a contribution.(S3W-15510)
SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT WRITTEN ANSWER
Mr Michael Russell:
The Scottish Government does intend to conduct a review of the Game Acts, which will commence before the end of the year. Early tasks will be to assess the scope of work required and to set a realistic timeframe. Part of the process will be a public consultation, providing stakeholders the opportunity to contribute.
SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE
Gibson welcomes ferry review announcement
News release
Immediate release
29/08/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands has welcomed an announcement from transport Minister Stewart Stevenson that the Scottish Government will carry out a ferry review.
The review will consider current provision of ferry services and what improvements should be made to meet future needs.
Mr Gibson said...
"I welcome the positive Ferry Enquiry response by the Scottish Government. Stewart Stevenson's announcement of a Ferry Review will allow realistic assessment of existing and new routes. That should take certain proposals such as the Lochboisdale to Mallaig out of the realms of speculation. "
"In the meantime the potential to fund and build new ferries for specific routes, for replacement and improvements to roll-off equipment can be considered. The forthcoming Parliamentary debate planned for 10th September on the Transport Committee Enquiry, which triggered the Government responses, is expected to examine the priorities for lifeline services to Scotland's islands."
ENDS
Immediate release
29/08/08
Rob Gibson SNP MSP for the Highlands and Islands has welcomed an announcement from transport Minister Stewart Stevenson that the Scottish Government will carry out a ferry review.
The review will consider current provision of ferry services and what improvements should be made to meet future needs.
Mr Gibson said...
"I welcome the positive Ferry Enquiry response by the Scottish Government. Stewart Stevenson's announcement of a Ferry Review will allow realistic assessment of existing and new routes. That should take certain proposals such as the Lochboisdale to Mallaig out of the realms of speculation. "
"In the meantime the potential to fund and build new ferries for specific routes, for replacement and improvements to roll-off equipment can be considered. The forthcoming Parliamentary debate planned for 10th September on the Transport Committee Enquiry, which triggered the Government responses, is expected to examine the priorities for lifeline services to Scotland's islands."
ENDS
Thursday, 28 August 2008
Gibson welcome Scottish Government funding to transform derelict land in Highlands
News release
Immediate release
26/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed £4.5 million of funding from the Scottish Government to Highland Council to transform derelict and vacant land in the region.
The fund, which was announced by Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell, has the aim of creating jobs, promote sustainability, improve quality of life, and stimulate economic growth for communities throughout the Highlands.
The Highland Council will be tasked with making a list of priorities to be funded.
Mr Gibson who met the Minister in Invergordon on the day of the announcement said....
"This is exciting news. For the first time since the scheme was created five years ago the Highlands will be receiving funding. Now it is up to Highland Council to nominate worthy schemes which will benefit every corner of the region.
"It irks me and many others to see good quality land lying abandoned and empty going to waste. I have no doubt that many people in their localities will see the potential in a bit of derelict of waste ground. I would therefore urge them to begin lobbying their councillors to make sure that the money makes it's way to their community."
"The Vacant and Derelict Land Fund has the potential to kick start the economy as well as enrich Communities. i am glad that the SNP Scottish Government has decided to include the Highlands in the scheme."
ENDS
Note:
Photo of Rob Gibson MSP in Invergordon with Communities and Sport Minister Stewart Maxwell MSP and SNP Councillor Maxine Smith (Cromarty Firth ward)
Immediate release
26/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed £4.5 million of funding from the Scottish Government to Highland Council to transform derelict and vacant land in the region.
The fund, which was announced by Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell, has the aim of creating jobs, promote sustainability, improve quality of life, and stimulate economic growth for communities throughout the Highlands.
The Highland Council will be tasked with making a list of priorities to be funded.
Mr Gibson who met the Minister in Invergordon on the day of the announcement said....
"This is exciting news. For the first time since the scheme was created five years ago the Highlands will be receiving funding. Now it is up to Highland Council to nominate worthy schemes which will benefit every corner of the region.
"It irks me and many others to see good quality land lying abandoned and empty going to waste. I have no doubt that many people in their localities will see the potential in a bit of derelict of waste ground. I would therefore urge them to begin lobbying their councillors to make sure that the money makes it's way to their community."
"The Vacant and Derelict Land Fund has the potential to kick start the economy as well as enrich Communities. i am glad that the SNP Scottish Government has decided to include the Highlands in the scheme."
ENDS
Note:
Photo of Rob Gibson MSP in Invergordon with Communities and Sport Minister Stewart Maxwell MSP and SNP Councillor Maxine Smith (Cromarty Firth ward)
Gibson welcomes start of Green Pig Project
News release - farming release
Immediate release
25/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has lodged a motion welcoming the start the of a scheme which is aimed at lessening pig farmers reliance on expensive soya feed.
The Green Pig Project (an international partnership that includes the Scottish Agricultural College) looks to create a viable alternative to importing of soya by delvoping locally grown legumes for pig feed.
Mr Gibson welcomed the SAC involvement...
"Development of food security which is clean and healthy is a must for all parts of the world in the future. In Scotland we already have a reputation for that therefore it is important that we start making multiplying usages of the excellent produce that we have."
"A reliance of importing animal feeds for livestock is not a sustainable position. So any moves towards lessening dependency on outside factor is welcome and a step forward. It will help producer countries which won't have their environments ruined by supplying soya to the world. It will also reduce feed costs of pig farmers and potentially all livestock producers in Scotland."
"The expertise of Scottish scientist who rightly have a renowned reputation as on conventional crop breeders will be at the forefront of this scheme I have no doubt that it will be another feather in their cap."
ENDS
Note
Copy of motion:
The Parliament welcomes news of the trialing of animal feed made from home-grown protein; in particular, congratulates the Scottish Agriculture College for backing the international research collaboration on the Green Pig project that plans to use appropriate home-grown legume varieties to reduce the importation of expensive soybean meal; recognises the need to drastically reduce soya imports that impact adversely on the environmental and social needs of producer countries and the expensive long-distance transport costs of this high-protein animal feed for use by Scottish livestock producers; further notes the likely benefits of lessening the input of nitrogen required by home-grown alternatives such as oilseed rape; and believes that the excellent pedigree of earned by Scottish scientists in conventional plant breeding can be best deployed to develop high-protein animal feed on Scottish farms and crofts that will take a natural and essential place in Scotland's National Food Policy.
Immediate release
25/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has lodged a motion welcoming the start the of a scheme which is aimed at lessening pig farmers reliance on expensive soya feed.
The Green Pig Project (an international partnership that includes the Scottish Agricultural College) looks to create a viable alternative to importing of soya by delvoping locally grown legumes for pig feed.
Mr Gibson welcomed the SAC involvement...
"Development of food security which is clean and healthy is a must for all parts of the world in the future. In Scotland we already have a reputation for that therefore it is important that we start making multiplying usages of the excellent produce that we have."
"A reliance of importing animal feeds for livestock is not a sustainable position. So any moves towards lessening dependency on outside factor is welcome and a step forward. It will help producer countries which won't have their environments ruined by supplying soya to the world. It will also reduce feed costs of pig farmers and potentially all livestock producers in Scotland."
"The expertise of Scottish scientist who rightly have a renowned reputation as on conventional crop breeders will be at the forefront of this scheme I have no doubt that it will be another feather in their cap."
ENDS
Note
Copy of motion:
The Parliament welcomes news of the trialing of animal feed made from home-grown protein; in particular, congratulates the Scottish Agriculture College for backing the international research collaboration on the Green Pig project that plans to use appropriate home-grown legume varieties to reduce the importation of expensive soybean meal; recognises the need to drastically reduce soya imports that impact adversely on the environmental and social needs of producer countries and the expensive long-distance transport costs of this high-protein animal feed for use by Scottish livestock producers; further notes the likely benefits of lessening the input of nitrogen required by home-grown alternatives such as oilseed rape; and believes that the excellent pedigree of earned by Scottish scientists in conventional plant breeding can be best deployed to develop high-protein animal feed on Scottish farms and crofts that will take a natural and essential place in Scotland's National Food Policy.
Monday, 18 August 2008
Gibson calls for fuel break for Far North business's
News release
Immediate release
18/08/08
SNP MSP Rob Gibson has challenged the Chancellor to give Far North businesses and travellers a break over high fuel costs.
Speaking ahead of a visit from SNP Enterprise Minister Jim Mather to Wick this week Mr Gibson said that high fuel prices were one of the major constraints on business success in rural and remote areas such as Caithness and Sutherland.
He continued...
"SNP pressure forced Alasdair Darling to postpone a 2p hike in fuel duty till October. What I am saying to him now is he should give businesses and motorist a break and cancel it altogether along with replacing arbitrary increases with a fuel duty regulator."
"A regulator would stop the fluctuation which we currently see at the pumps. In an era of high oil prices we need that stability both for business and public transport. It is time for the UK Government to wake up to our needs ."
A recent report from the Road Haulage Association stated that UK hauliers found it patently unfair that they continue to subsidise their continental competitors through high levels of taxation on fuel, eight years after the Government announced proposals to address this problem.
Mr Gibson said...
"We need a level playing field on fuel prices throughout the Continent. However what is patently obvious is that when it comes to the UK the Government makes sure that the odds are stacked against people of rural Scotland especially in the North and West."
"Time and time again they have denied SNP pleas for a special derogation on fuel duty which could be achieved through the EU despite these areas paying some of the most expensive prices in Europe. This derogation allows the state to reduce fuel prices and has already happened in France with UK support.
"However when the same has been asked for rural areas of Scotland the answer from the UK Government has always been a flat no. It is another example of why Scotland cannot rely on the UK to speak for our needs at the European top table and why we need a seat of our own."
ENDS
Immediate release
18/08/08
SNP MSP Rob Gibson has challenged the Chancellor to give Far North businesses and travellers a break over high fuel costs.
Speaking ahead of a visit from SNP Enterprise Minister Jim Mather to Wick this week Mr Gibson said that high fuel prices were one of the major constraints on business success in rural and remote areas such as Caithness and Sutherland.
He continued...
"SNP pressure forced Alasdair Darling to postpone a 2p hike in fuel duty till October. What I am saying to him now is he should give businesses and motorist a break and cancel it altogether along with replacing arbitrary increases with a fuel duty regulator."
"A regulator would stop the fluctuation which we currently see at the pumps. In an era of high oil prices we need that stability both for business and public transport. It is time for the UK Government to wake up to our needs ."
A recent report from the Road Haulage Association stated that UK hauliers found it patently unfair that they continue to subsidise their continental competitors through high levels of taxation on fuel, eight years after the Government announced proposals to address this problem.
Mr Gibson said...
"We need a level playing field on fuel prices throughout the Continent. However what is patently obvious is that when it comes to the UK the Government makes sure that the odds are stacked against people of rural Scotland especially in the North and West."
"Time and time again they have denied SNP pleas for a special derogation on fuel duty which could be achieved through the EU despite these areas paying some of the most expensive prices in Europe. This derogation allows the state to reduce fuel prices and has already happened in France with UK support.
"However when the same has been asked for rural areas of Scotland the answer from the UK Government has always been a flat no. It is another example of why Scotland cannot rely on the UK to speak for our needs at the European top table and why we need a seat of our own."
ENDS
Wednesday, 13 August 2008
Gibson lambasts policy exchange as 'writing off Highlands'
News release
Immediate release
13/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson lambasted a report from the right wing think tank which states that the Highlands are not (and never have been) a good place for business and that the reason that people live there are for other reasons.
The report, which was commissioned by policy exchange - which is closely associated with the Conservative party, said;
"The difficulty of connecting the middle of the Lake District, or the Highlands of Scotland, explains why so few people live there: these places, which are outstandingly beautiful, are not good locations for business and never have been. Those who choose to live there do so because they offer other attractions."
in response, Mr Gibson said….
"Writing off the Highlands of Scotland is as incredible as it is stupid. It seems that this policy think tank is stuck in the 19th Century where the Highlands were only a place for hunting, shooting and fishing. It bears no resemblance to the dynamic area it actually is."
"The future for population and business growth in the Highlands is extremely positive. The boom in renewable energy will see more businesses being set up and more people moving to areas such as Caithness, Ross-shire and the Northern Isles. The commercial shipping hub on Orkney and possible link up with Scrabster harbour will see on one of the major shipping ports in the world. Not to mention the continued growth and reputation that the University of the Highlands and Islands will create in jobs and business which will succeed."
"In 19th Century the central belt drew Highlanders in droves. In the 21st Century the power is returning to the Highlands and Islands."
"There are of course many more businesses that prove that ruralility is no issue when it comes to making a success of business."
He challenged the Tories in Scotland to distance themselves from these idiotic comments….
"Do Highland Tories agree with Mary Scanlon (who lodged a motion congratulating the economic regeneration on Unst) or the outdated policy exchange?."
ENDS
NOTE TO EDITOR:
Quote on page 25 of Policyexchange's report: referring to Highlands as well as link to report:
That some areas are innately hard to connect is not contentious. The difficulty of connecting the middle of the Lake District, or the Highlands of Scotland explains why so few people live there: these places, which are outstandingly beautiful, are not good locations for business and never have been. Those who choose to live there do so because they offer other attractions.
http://www.policyexchange.org.uk/images/libimages/413.pdf
Immediate release
13/08/08
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson lambasted a report from the right wing think tank which states that the Highlands are not (and never have been) a good place for business and that the reason that people live there are for other reasons.
The report, which was commissioned by policy exchange - which is closely associated with the Conservative party, said;
"The difficulty of connecting the middle of the Lake District, or the Highlands of Scotland, explains why so few people live there: these places, which are outstandingly beautiful, are not good locations for business and never have been. Those who choose to live there do so because they offer other attractions."
in response, Mr Gibson said….
"Writing off the Highlands of Scotland is as incredible as it is stupid. It seems that this policy think tank is stuck in the 19th Century where the Highlands were only a place for hunting, shooting and fishing. It bears no resemblance to the dynamic area it actually is."
"The future for population and business growth in the Highlands is extremely positive. The boom in renewable energy will see more businesses being set up and more people moving to areas such as Caithness, Ross-shire and the Northern Isles. The commercial shipping hub on Orkney and possible link up with Scrabster harbour will see on one of the major shipping ports in the world. Not to mention the continued growth and reputation that the University of the Highlands and Islands will create in jobs and business which will succeed."
"In 19th Century the central belt drew Highlanders in droves. In the 21st Century the power is returning to the Highlands and Islands."
"There are of course many more businesses that prove that ruralility is no issue when it comes to making a success of business."
He challenged the Tories in Scotland to distance themselves from these idiotic comments….
"Do Highland Tories agree with Mary Scanlon (who lodged a motion congratulating the economic regeneration on Unst) or the outdated policy exchange?."
ENDS
NOTE TO EDITOR:
Quote on page 25 of Policyexchange's report: referring to Highlands as well as link to report:
That some areas are innately hard to connect is not contentious. The difficulty of connecting the middle of the Lake District, or the Highlands of Scotland explains why so few people live there: these places, which are outstandingly beautiful, are not good locations for business and never have been. Those who choose to live there do so because they offer other attractions.
http://www.policyexchange.org.uk/images/libimages/413.pdf
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