Pilot projects 'not enough'

Two pilot projects launched by the Crown Estate to see how community groups manage their own coastline assets are not enough, according to Community Land Scotland. The group has written to the Secretary of State for Scotland urging him to tell the Crown Estate it needs devolve meaningful and significant responsibilities to local communities. Harris-based David Cameron, Chair of Community Land Scotland, said: "Community owners already manage complex business enterprises, they are developing housing, tourism and business infrastructure, they run ports and jetties, and there is no reason why they could not take over control of what the absentee Crown Estate hold now, and do it better." The pilot schemes set up by Crown Estates, which include one in Lochmaddy, do, said Mr Cameron signal that some change is being explored, and that is welcome. But, he concluded: "Our ambition is for significant control of the total asset the Crown Estate currently manage."

MSP in favour of whisky plans

Na h-Eileanan an Iar MSP Alasdair Allan, has thrown his support behind plans for a malt whisky distillery in Tarbert. Dr Allan described the proposals as a 'real opportunity for much needed economic activity in Harris.' He said "I have met the group investing in this proposal and believe that they are committed to bringing this project to fruition. The next period will be the crucial one in determining whether the distillery becomes a reality. The project could create 20 jobs as well as act as a showcase for Harris Tweed and the island's tourist industry."

Leverburgh Lifeboat first call-out

The new Leverburgh Lifeboat was called into action on Saturday afternoon, within the first 24 hours of becoming operational. RNLB Lifetime Care was on exercise in the Sound of Harris, when she was tasked by Stornoway Coastguard to assist the fishing vessel Siolta, which had suffered engine failure south of Wiay Island, Benbecula. The new Lifeboat was underway within one minute of the call and escorted the fishing vessel safely alongside the pier at St Peter's Port, Benbecula. Operations manager John MacLean said "This call-out, so soon after the station being made operational, confirms the need to have such a service in the area." Coxs'n Angus Morrison said: "We were called to act just 19 ½ hours into our first day. This is what we have been training for - it's a completely different feeling from an exercise. This was the real thing."

New council chiefs decided

The Western Isles has a new convenor, after Councillor Norman 'Dochus' MacDonald was elected by majority of one in a close, two-round vote at the first full meeting of the Comhairle yesterday afternoon. Councillors requested an open vote, rather than a secret ballot, for the two positions of convenor and leader of the council. Three candidates were nominated for the convenor's position, held by former Councillor and convenor Alex MacDonald until he retired at the end of the last term.  Councillor Rae Mackenzie was eliminated in the first round of voting, and Councillor MacDonald, who represents Uig and North Lochs, was then elected by 16 votes to 15 over Councillor Norman 'Curly' MacLeod from Point. He will serve as convenor for the five year term of the current Comhairle.

New council structure decided today

Today's statutory meeting at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar will see decisions made over who becomes the new Council Leader, the new Convenor and the chairs of each of the committees in the council. Former Council Leader Angus Campbell told Isles FM on the day of the count that he would be throwing his hat into the ring for the election of leader, and his performance over the previous term is likely to make him a favourite. Decisions will be made by a vote between all 31 councillors after candidates have put themselves forward.