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GUTH BHARRAIDH BARRA NEWS |
24/12/04
"Back to Barra"
The Barra Hospice CD. Produced by Barra Records
This CD is now on sale and is available from Co-chomunn Bharraidh, A & C MacLean, the Top Shop, Hebridean Toffee and Co-chomunn Eirisgeidh. The CD was produced by Barra Records and all profits will go towards the Barra Hospice Appeal. Orders by post to 01871-810401 email barraoffice@aol.com £12.99 +p&p.
Artists are: Roddy Campbell, Coma-Co-Dhuibh , Karen Matheson, Catriona and Lisa MacKinnon, Maggie MacInnes, Clo nan Nighean, Archie MacLean, Catherine Anne MacPhee, Marianne Campbell, Rory Campbell, Flora MacNeil, Murdo Macdonald, Chrissie MacDonald, The Vatersay boys, Maeve MacKinnon.
All the artists have donated their talents towards the Hospice appeal, many thanks for their enthusiasm and support. We look forward to your support for this project and enjoy the wide range of Barra talent displayed on the CD.
More will follow!!
www.barrarecords.co.uk. Email: info@barrarecords.co.uk.
Barra Phoney Book 2005 is Now Ready
We said it would be ready for Christmas, perhaps not this close! Available now from A&C MacLean and Co-chomunn Bharraidh, the new Phoney Book costs £4.50 and makes an ideal stocking filler or last minute gift for posting!!
Email: barraoffice@aol.com
Next Guth Bharraidh - Friday 7 January 2005
Nollaig Chridheil Agus Bliadhna Math Ur Dhuibh Uile!!!!
17/12/04
All Roads Lead To The Barrowlands!
The Western Isles Integrated Transport System was well and truly put to the test last Friday as hundreds of Vatersay Boys followers raced to catch the first ferry, the last ferry and a combination of trains, planes and automobiles! Barra and Benbecula Airports had never seen the likes.
As weather conditions worsened and with a growing predictability, the cancellation of the Thursday Ferry from Oban left people in a complete state of panic, forcing them to move faster than they have ever done during last orders in the Castlebay bar on a Saturday night.
A major planning operation then began and while internet lines buzzed and credit card bookings clicked, the local bin man come innovator and drummer was seen to be calmly going about his business in Castlebay confident that everything and everyone would eventually come together……and it did!
By the time the Vatersay Boys took up Centre Stage, over 1000 revellers packed the Barrowlands Ballroom for what must have been the first dance at the now concert venue for over 25 years.
The whole event can only be described as fantastic if somewhat surreal as people who had travelled for periods of well over 12 hours from Barra and the islands arrived at the Ballroom to be met by so many friends and family. Comments such as “This is just like a Barra Wedding” and “ a truly cross-generational knees-up” to “ It’s like Barra Live with a roof” were passed around.
By the time “Oidhche Mhath Ma Tha” was played revellers headed off home content that they had taken part in a truly special evening and wondered how they were all going to fit into the Islay Inn the following night.
The Vatersay Boys have now proven to so many that they can perform at any level, be it Eriskay Hall, a chip shop in Stornoway or a major concert venue in Glasgow.
The Boys would like to thank all their fans for making their way to the concert despite the difficult weather and transport conditions, their friends and family for all their help indeed everyone who supported them in pulling the event off, thanks to their ever growing management and marketing team and thanks to all who helped with the great escape Loganair and Calmac for their Vatersay Boys menu and to a person who wishes to remain anonymous for their computer and technological wizardry.
Watch this space for 2005 events and remember to Ring out the Old and Bring in the New at the Castlebay Square Extravaganza on Hogmanay!!
School Closures - No Closures Proposed for Barra
As the Comhairle again starts to debate the need for School closures, parents and staff are asked to note that there are no proposals for any school closures in Barra. Barra has already been through this procedure and both Brevig School and Vatersay School were closed at that time. There are no suggestions that any other Barra schools are being targeted, all the schools currently listed are in Lewis.
Be positive, support your local school and look forward to positive development for the future with all our schools continuing to serve parents and children in their local communities.
Lord of the Isles
The LOTI was called into action to assist a coaster SW of Oban last Tuesday 14th December at approx 7 - 8pm. The Oban Lifeboat also attended and managed to secure a line to the Coaster. The LOTI then proceeded overnight to Castlebay to catch up on her schedule.
10/12/04
Government Defeat on Cal Mac Tendering Process
The Tendering Process for the Cal Mac ferry network was brought to a halt on Wednesday in the Scottish Parliament when, following a debate, the government was defeated by 54 votes to 53 with 15 labour members abstaining.
The sometimes heated debate ranged from lack of clear information on European regulations on the necessity to tender to the need for ferries to be included in a National Concessionary Fare Scheme. Major importance was placed on the impact of tendering on employees of Caledonian MacBrayne in the long term and the further impact on the communities of the Clyde and Hebrides if such employment is lost.
The motion that was defeated was that moved by Nicol Stephen "That the Parliament commends the Scottish Executive's continued commitment to supporting and investing in lifeline ferry services in the Clyde and Hebrides; endorses its proposals for tendering the main bundle of ferry services as required under European Union rules, and welcomes the proposals for a final round of consultation to obtain the views of local communities and freight service users before proceeding with the tender under EU rules." Two amendments to this motion were debated, from Fergus Ewing and David Mundell. The full text of the debate and how the MSP's voted can be read on the Scottish Parliament web site under Official report.
As a result, the Parliament has instructed the Government to go back to Europe and obtain clear guidance about the need to tender the Cal Mac ferry services.
However, it would be advisable to obtain the Consultation document mentioned in the debate and be prepared for the next move in this long running saga. A statement about National Concessionary Fares is expected next Wednesday in the Scottish Parliament.
Barra Airport is OUR Priority!
Jaws dropped in Barra last week, when, during an interview with Radio nan Gaidheal, Uist Councillor, Ronnie MacKinnon, proposed that a causeway be built across the Sound of Barra and that Barra would then no longer need an Air service as we would all fly out of Benbecula.
He also indicated that this would also give Barra better access to the Uist and Barra Hospital and the Army hospital. Was he also implying that we did not need a hospital either? Councillor MacKinnon, who is also vice chair of the Transportation committee of the Comhairle, felt the money required for a hard runway in Barra would be better spent improving Benbecula Airport, giving Benbecula better landing facilities in bad weather, cheaper fares and larger planes.
The Barra Community Councils Joint Air Services Action Committee quickly responded to these suggestions writing to all councillors expressing their concern about his proposals, and indicating that if Councillor MacKinnon wished to redesign the Barra air, ferry and health services, perhaps he should consult with Barra in the first instance!
03/12/04
Shock and Sadness At Church Fire
The Western Isles community was shocked and saddened by the fire which destroyed the Church of Our Holy Redeemer in Stornoway in the early hours of last Friday morning.
The fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.
Bishop Ian Murray said: "Our architect
and insurers are confident that the building can be
reinstated on the same site and work will shortly begin
to clear the site prior to reconstruction.”
Connected Communities Wireless Broadband
Will be available in Barra around June/July 2005. More accurate dates will be announced following site surveys currently in progress. Contracts have been let in the last week for the phase down to Rodel and the next phase will go all the way to Barra. The service will come off the new mast above Castlebay being built by Orange but facilitated by Connected Communities and also the mast at Grian.
Connected Communities will also connect to all schools, health centres & hospital, council offices, community centre/ learning centre. The connection will be through a small antenna. The cost of the service will be announced following a tendering process which is currently in progress but is expected to be similar to current costs in the marketplace.
More information is available at www.connectedcommunities.co.uk but don’t hesitate to come back at any time for a further update or to clarify any aspect of the information above.
Barra Phoney Book
Businesses - Are you a new business? Then we would like your details for the phoney book.
Are you an established business? Please check your details in the old Phoney Book and tell us if there are any changes to be made.
Adverts - If you would like to place an advert in the new Phoney Book please contact us with the details as soon as possible.
Email: phoneybook@aol.com Tel: 01871 810 401. Fax: 01871 810 933.
It’s That Time of the Year Again!!
If you are planning to hold any events over the festive period, please let us know so we can compile a list of what’s going on. All advertising for the Christmas issue of the Guth MUST be with us by Friday 17th December. You must specify if you wish the advert to be in black & white or colour. Please note there will be an additional charge for colour adverts.
Email: barranews@aol.com .
The first Guth after New Year will be 7th January. Any adverts for this edition must be with us for 12noon, Thursday 6th January.
26/11/04
Masts are Getting Mobile
News at last on the mobile phone masts as Orange have indicated that they hope to proceed with the construction of the two masts in Bruernish and Bentangaval early in the New Year. Orange, MNO2 and Community Broadband will be sharing the mobile phone masts. This development will complete the network to give coverage to most of the island. MNO2 coming on board the proposed masts will provide a network of cover for the emergency services especially in the Castlebay area where they have virtually no communication cover at present.
This development with the mobile masts will enable the Community Broadband project to reach out to Barra and Vatersay. The Western Isles Connected Communities project has European funding to build an innovative wireless broadband network throughout the Western Isles. Because of the wide distribution of the population across a number of islands more traditional methods of providing broadband are impractical. This is why wireless is being used to provide a widely distributed broadband service across the islands. The Western Isles 'Connected Communities' project will deliver services to locations from Ness in the north of Lewis to Castlebay in Barra in the south and at similar costs to broadband services in other parts of the Highlands & Islands.
For more information log onto the web site at:
www.connectedcommunities.co.uk
INITIATIVE AT THE EDGE
Barra and Vatersay joined the Initiative at the Edge scheme in October 2004. The operating principle of Initiative at the Edge is to give the Community the power to identify their needs, required actions and develop projects accordingly. Over the next 3 years, the Partners in Initiative at the Edge have contributed £100k. They will support the community to take forward their projects. The Partners involved are the Scottish Executive, Western Isles Enterprise, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Crofters Commission. A local steering group will lead the Scheme.
Following the initial meeting held on Thursday, 18th November, the uptake and discussions were positive. Various ideas ranged from projects involving renewable energy, fishing, the Castlebay Enhancement Plan and individual group projects.
What are the benefits of Initiative at the Edge to our Community?
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Gaining Initiative at the Edge status for three years is recognised by many funding agencies which will boost funding opportunities for local projects.
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It will be a project led by the Community, to take forward the projects identified by the Community as priority to the island.
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It will support the local economic and social development, which will improve the quality of life on the island.
The next meeting will be on Monday, 6th December 2004 in Castlebay Hall at 7.30pm.
This is the opportunity for YOU to decide how this scheme will proceed
and what YOU think the priorities should be for the island over the next 3 years.
19/11/04
Air Ambulance Service Consultation
Representatives from the Scottish Air Ambulance Service, NHS Western Isles, and the proposed contractor for the air ambulance service met with community representatives and medical practitioners in Castlebay Hall on Thursday. Barra concerns had been expressed about the withdrawal of the “Islander” aircraft from the air ambulance service under the new arrangements due to start in 2006, leaving Barra with only the helicopter option.
The Scottish Air Ambulance Helicopter, operated by Bond Helicopters, landed on the playing fields in Castlebay to give local people the chance to see the new machine and to discuss the advantages or disadvantages of the new service.
Local concerns related to refuelling, severe weather restrictions, icing in winter, landing facilities and patient travel were all discussed and those present had the opportunity to speak to not only the officials but also the paramedic and the pilot who work on the Scottish Air Ambulance service.
Western Isles Credit Union
Next week sees the launch of a major
publicity campaign by the Western Isles
Credit Union Project. A series of public meetings are
being held throughout the Western Isles,
starting in Barra on Monday 22 November and ending in
Stornoway on Tuesday
13 December. Chairman of the Credit Union Steering
Group, Councillor Archie Campbell
said, "The purpose of these meetings is to engage
directly with the
community in order to raise awareness of the credit
union project and the
positive benefits that come from membership. We would
encourage everybody
in the community to come along to the meetings. The
views of the community will be essential to the future
development of the project. What is a Credit Union? How does a Credit Union work?
Who can be involved? Interested? Come along to
Castlebay Hall on Monday 22 November at 7.30pm.
Initiative At the Edge—Iomart Aig An Oir
A meeting is being held at 8pm in Castlebay Hall tonight, Thursday to discuss the Initiative at the Edge for Barra. It is hoped that there will be a good turn out for this meeting to maximise the impact of the IAAO designation for the next three years.
12/11/04
AIR AMBULANCE SERVICE CONSULTATION
Following the concerns raised with the Health Board over the proposals for local air ambulance service provision when the new contract which comes into force from 2006, the Scottish Ambulance Service have agreed to visit Barra as part of their consultation exercise. The Health Board agreed to establish a Working Group to take this issue forward and to ensure that Barra’s particular needs and concerns are addressed. Acute Services Medical Director, Andrew Sim this week confirmed that the Ambulance Service are taking local concerns seriously and have agreed to visit Barra next Thursday, 18 November, to meet with the local community.
The helicopter will be available in Castlebay football field between 10.30am –12 noon for anyone wishing to view the aircraft and discuss technical matters. A public meeting will follow in Castlebay Hall, from 1pm – 2.30pm. The meeting will be attended by SAS representatives Jim Kersse, Information Support Officer, Ray Gordon, Project Manager and a paramedic, along with Peter Bond, Exec. Chairman of Bond-Air. Mr Sim and Dr Bickle will attend from the Health Board. Following the meeting the Working Group will draw up a report for the Health Board to consider at its next meeting, in Benbecula on 25 November, as part of Board’s formal response to the consultation on the new ambulance service.
From Barra to the Barrowlands Ceilidh Dance
Glasgow Barrowland, Friday 10th December 2004 - SOLD OUT!!
Barr a' Dannsa Lives up to it's New Name
Well done to the fifty pupils aged 3 to 16 from the Jane Douglas School of Dancing who picked up their exam awards and delighted a packed Castlebay Hall last weekend with a variety of traditional to unusual new dances. The boys and girls demonstrated what can be achieved with hard work, Highland and Scottish Step Dancing mixed with imagination.
The dancers were all terrific especially the polished Barr a' Dannsa choreography team who wowed the audience with their slick and exciting routines. The special guests:- piper Angus John MacLeod, Donna MacLean on clarsach, Domhnall Dhunnachaidh on the box, Duncan Scott, on fiddle and singer Michelle MacNeil completed an entertaining evening, skilfully held together by Fear an Taigh John Joe MacNeil.
Well done also to all those who helped with music, food, costumes, photography and organisation.
Only one question remains - When's the next show?!
05/11/04
Connecting to Music
Edinburgh International Festival Bring Music Workshops to Barra
Children from all the island Primary Schools were given the opportunity to participate in the Edinburgh International Festival Education Project which took place in Castlebay Community School at the end of October. Listening to all styles of music and working with professional musicians the children were able to explore the impact of live music.
Caledonian MacBrayne Notice to Customers
Castlebay Linkspan Closure 6 – 12 November 2004
The Castlebay Linkspan will be shut down for scheduled maintenance from Saturday 6th November until Thursday 11th November inclusive. To allow shipment of articulated vehicles to and from Barra, it will be necessary to reroute services via Lochboisdale in order that articulated vehicles can use the Ceann a Gharaidh – Ardmhor (Eriskay – Barra ) service.
Other vehicles (cars and rigid commercial vehicles/vans) will be conveyed and from Castlebay where they will be loaded/discharged via the use of the vessels side loading hoist. Customers are advised to contact either the Castlebay or Lochboisdale offices prior to travel to confirm that there have been no further changes to the following revised timetable.
Saturday 6 November No Service
Sunday 7 November
15.00 Oban – Lochboisdale 20.20:
20.35 Lochboisdale – Castlebay 22.25
Monday 8 November
07.30 Castlebay – Lochboisdale 09.20:
09.35 Lochboisdale – Oban 14.55
Tuesday 9 November
15.30 Oban – Lochboisdale 20.50:
21.05 Lochboisdale – Castlebay 22.55
Wednesday 10 November
07.30 Castlebay – Lochboisdale 09.20:
09.35 Lochboisdale – Oban 14.55
Thursday 11 November
15.30 Oban – Castlebay 20.50:
21.05 Castlebay – Lochboisdale 22.55:
23.10 Lochboisdale – Oban 05.40 (Friday morning)
Friday 12 November
09.30 Oban - Lochboisdale 14.50:
15.05 Lochboisdale – Castlebay 16.55:
17.10 Castlebay – Oban 22.30
Ian M Fox Route Manager
29/10/04
Health Information Project Launched in the Western Isles
The hi information project was launched simultaneously in Barra and in Lewis last week.
Officials from the Scottish Executive, NHS Western Isles, along with Mrs Betty McAtear, Vice-chair of the Health Board and Calum MacDonald M.P. were present at the launch in the new community hall in Castlebay, where they met with Barra community representatives and Health and social work staff.
The hi project can be accessed by computer from the NHS Western Isles web site and is also directly available on a number of computers around the island, in the school, the library, the Learning Centre etc. The project is aimed at providing easy access to a wide range of health information including medical conditions, surgical procedures, check-ups and screenings, travel health, local and national support groups and websites. All information is easily understandable and produced by practicing doctors and pharmacists.
The project also includes local information when viewed in each GP Practice relevant to that area.
Ferry Breakdowns Cause Weekend Travel Chaos
The end of the summer timetable last weekend was marked by the breakdown of the Clansman on Friday and the Lord of the Isles on Saturday. Barra was left without a sailing on Friday evening and the next sailing for Barra finally left Oban at 6pm on Saturday via Craignure for Barra. The Lord of the isles, which should have sailed for Lochboisdale on Saturday morning was then supposed to come to Barra to make up for Friday’s cancellation but it also broke down leaving Cal Mac with the problem of serving Coll, Tiree, Barra and Lochboisdale with only the Isle of Mull, which was also carrying out the Mull Schedule. Normal service eventually resumed on Sunday but shopping deliveries were out-of-kilter and shops were not restocked until Wednesday morning. Both vessels are obviously feeling the strain after a very busy summer and are needing their annual overhaul.
Timetable Delays- From Monday 6th November there are likely to be delays to the ferry times in and out of Barra due to work being carried out on the Linkspan in Castlebay for a period of about ten days. Vehicles will be loaded and discharged from the ferry on the side ramp. As a result the ferry will not be able to load vehicles over ten metres in length.
Clocks Go Back This Week End!!
22/10/04
Barra Estate Formally Transferred to SEERAD
In September 2003, Macneil of Barra made public his decision to donate his Barra estate to the Scottish Ministers. The announcement was made this week that the formal transfer of ownership of the Barra Estate to the Scottish Ministers has now been completed and that the 3,600 crofting estate including adjacent foreshore, fishing and mineral rights is now in the ownership of SEERAD. Scottish Ministers already own land on Barra and Vatersay and the combined estates cover almost all of the two islands extending to 6,500 hectares including over 440 croft tenancies and two working quarries.
Rural Development Minister, Ross Finnie, welcomed the transfer of crofting land in Barra to Scottish Ministers. Mr Finnie said: “The Scottish Executive is committed to ensuring rural communities have a say in the future social, economic and environmental sustainability of their community. Ian Macneil’s decision to transfer his estate on Barra to Scottish Ministers ensures that it will continue to be managed for the benefit of the local community. We intend to manage this land with a view to its transfer, along with our own properties, to community ownership at a time appropriate to the islanders of Barra. In the meantime we will encourage community participation in the estate’s management through an estate charter similar to those already adopted on other estates owned by Ministers."
The crofting land of the Estate of Barra was transferred to the Scottish Ministers on 14th October, and will now be administered by SEERAD. The new estate name on SEERAD’s records is Barra Estate (South). On behalf of the people of Barra we take this opportunity to thank Ian Macneil for his generosity in donating his estate and for his patience, assistance and expertise throughout his years as a crofting landlord and look forward to his continuing connections with the island as a neighbour and Clan Chief.
The Border Heather
The Border Heather is the replacement vessel for the 35 year old Border Springer which served Barra with Diesel Oil for some 20 years. The new ship discharged at Ardveenish on Monday morning after calls at Loch Carnan, Tarbert, Stornoway, Scrabster and Lerwick.
The Border Heather is a 3500 tonne vessel capable of discharging 3 grades of fuel at the same time at 1000 tonnes per hour. Is it not time we had our own fuel depot at Barra to meet the capabilities of this fine ship?
07/10/04
Celebration of Learning
Two Cothrom students (Mary Margaret and Margaret) from Barra travelled to Benbecula on Friday 24th September to join with other students from all over the Uists in a celebration of their achievements over the past year.
The celebration took place at Nunton Steadings. There was a short presentation that included speeches from Councillor Peter Carlin and Paul MacKenzie, Cothrom Student. Peter Carlin then went on to present certificates. The evening ended with a lovely buffet and a chance to mix and chat. Everyone who attended from Barra had a really good time.
Barra students who gained certificates but could not make the celebration will receive them in the post.
If anyone would like to find out more about the work of Cothrom or would like to know what Cothrom can do for them then please call Sarah on 810779 (answer machine) or 810634.
spelling, number work, driving theory, grammar, computing, form filling, cv writing, childcare, job search
Premium Rate Internet Bills
Local consumers have complained of receiving exceptionally high telephone bills after unwittingly falling victim to premium rate internet dialling frauds.
Consumers have found that their computers had hung up on their existing internet service supplier (ISP) and had automatically redialled a premium rate number.
Trading standards are advising consumers who use the internet to regularly check their ISP numbers to ensure that they are not phoning an 090 premium rate service which can cost up to £1.50 a minute.
The fraud has been highlighted on the BBC
Watchdog programme
(www.watchdog.bbc.co.uk/watchdog/advice/internet.shtml)
and is currently being investigated by The Independent
Committee for the Supervision of
Standards of Telephone Information Services. (ICSTIS),
Tel 0800 500212.
Please Note
There will be no Guth Bharraidh next week Friday 15th October. The next issue will be on Friday 22nd October. The deadline for that issue will be
12 noon on Wednesday 20th October.
01/09/04
Cobhair Bharraigh Receive AOL Innovation in the Community Award
Poppy MacPhee of Cobhair Bharraigh received an AOL Innovation in the Community Award from John Fisher, Chief Executive of Citizens Online and Chairman of the awards judging panel at a ceremony at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London on Monday 20 September 2004.
Cobhair Bharraigh, based in Castlebay on the Isle of Barra, was set up to provide a home-based support service and day care centre for people across the island. The service enables carers to have a short break and currently provides day care for 16 people suffering from strokes, dementia, Alzheimers and learning difficulties, as well as the frail and the elderly.
The charity will embrace the power of the Internet to help its patients communicate with family and friends, many of whom are overseas. The AOL Innovation in the Community Award will fund a computer and webcam to enable patients and staff to stay in touch with their loved ones more easily.
The AOL Innovation in the Community Awards were set up by AOL UK and the national charity Citizens Online to encourage community groups and charities across the UK to make the most of the Internet. The judging panel chose 30 organisations from more than 800 applications this year to receive the awards in support of their Internet projects.
Interim Arrangements Announced For The Bull Hire
Following the closure of the livestock schemes in May, the Deputy Minister for Rural Development has announced interim arrangements for the Bull Hire Scheme.
The temporary scheme has been put in place for crofting groups whose Bull Hire contract has expired, enabling them to access a bull from the Crofters Commission for the coming season.
Commenting on the announcement, Shane Rankin, Crofters Commission Chief Executive said: “We are pleased that these interim measures have been announced, as there was considerable uncertainty within those groups whose hire was due to expire this year. They will now be able to access a bull from the Commission for next year, and we will be writing to them in the next few weeks to explain the mechanics of the scheme in detail.
“The interim arrangements are consistent with EU state aid rules and will offer the affected crofting groups a high quality bull from the Crofters Commission at an affordable price.
“It is encouraging that the Minister has endorsed the view of the Commission and others that supporting high quality cattle breeding is important to the future of many crofting communities.”
The definitive new Cattle Improvement Scheme currently under development will be discussed with a focus group of crofters and agricultural interests next month. SEERAD plans full consultation on the new measures to ensure crofting groups can plan their livestock improvements from next year.
~ 20 Years ~ 24 September 2004 ~ 1000th Issue ~
Guth Bharraidh – Still here 1000 Issues Later!
Hamish: “Have you heard about the disaster?”
Morag: “ No!........Och don’t tell me…..there’s no bread left?
Hamish: “ Dhia no, worse than that!”
Morag: “ Don’t tell me that the plane and ferry have been cancelled?”
Hamish: “Much worse than that,… its truly shocking you know!”
Morag: “ Don’t tell me, the Council have closed all the roads so that they can all be re-tarred at the one time, now what could be a bigger shock to the system than that? Pass me that Phoneybook and I’ll phone Manford”
Hamish: “No, listen woman,… I’ve just been to Buth Bhuthair and there’s no Guth Bharraigh this week!!
Where would we be without it?
On the 5th October 1984, the Guth was first introduced to Barra as follows: ‘THIS IS THE FIRST ISSUE of what we hope will grow into a regular weekly four-page community newsletter.’
This hope was well founded and over the past 20 years, 1000 issues have been produced. During that period its editor Jessie probably felt like it was more like 1000 years and 20 issues. Who could blame her!
In that time, the Guth has been copied an average of 700,000 times and sent to over 20 different countries throughout the world including Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Germany, Spain and many more. There was even a rumour that the Mars Space probe would have had more success had they agreed to take the copy of the Guth with them!
In that 20 years the Guth has played both a crucial and central role in passing on information of community life on these islands. On an island with a population of just over 1,000, an average of 700 copies are distributed each week. Each Friday, we all go to our own wee corner to take in the latest news, as we sit down to read it in the car, at home with a cuppa or in the pub.
Just you think about it, how many times have you said “who has got the Guth? Where did you leave it last?”…as it gets lost more times than the remote control for the television!
What is its biggest attraction then? Surly not its format? It has remained virtually the same since the first issue with the exception of improvements in the quality of print and colour as technology allows its production to become more professional.
It must be its content then? This is certainly the case.
It has always incorporated an excellent blend of local, national and international news while also balancing this with a variety of those all important adverts.
Stories focusing on local news and views, sport, the weather, our environment, fundraising efforts, and service provision on Barra to name but a few have all sat well together in the Guth.
Seen by many as the essential guide for news on births, marriages and deaths or hatches, matches and dispatches, the Guth tries hard to offer a read that reflects what is actually taking place within our community. In darker times it has had to report on many tragedies over that period and it has done so with both dignity and sympathy. All this is part of its success.
Its close links with Voluntary Action Barra and Vatersay since its inception has also ensured that a strong spotlight has shone on Barra & Vatersay’s social economy whilst also bringing many good news stories from its business community. Indeed, the business community and many others are to be thanked for the financial support that they have provided in the way of donations and adverts.
However its content is only a success as a result of those who produce and distribute the Guth, the people who pass on the news, and the people who create and appear in the news. There would be no Guth without them.
And what of the next 20 years?
Hamish: “ Has anyone seen this week’s copy of the Guth?”
Hamish Jnr: “ Gen, I’ve told you before, you have to go onto the Cybernet G9 mark20 Computer supported by Broadband and download it onto your hard drive!”
Morag: “ Och, he lost his hard drive long ago!!”
It is probably appropriate to adopt the same hope that was expressed 20 years ago, that the Guth should continue to grow and support this community in meeting the many challenges of the future. To do this, we would remind you all of the need for your contributions and input.
If you have any thoughts on what the Guth should look like, what it should contain, if there are any budding reporters out there, please let us know. Contact us with your thoughts, good or bad, on Barranews@aol.com
CONGRATULATIONS
Barra Citizens Advice Bureau extends heartiest congratulations to Guth Bharraidh on reaching its 1000th edition.
In 1984 the Unemployed Voluntary Action Fund grant aided a project put forward by the Council of Social Service, which aimed to increase access to information and advice locally and so reduce the disadvantages suffered by the people of Barra and Vatersay. The CSS introduced Guth Bharraidh as a means of enabling the Information and Advice Service to achieve its aims. At that time it was difficult to envisage Guth Bharraidh ever reaching issue 100, far less 1,000.
Twenty years on; today the CSS is Voluntary Action and the Information & Advice project is the CAB, well established as part of the national network of advice services. The Guth continues to flourish, loved and berated in equal quantities, but still providing information to the local community on a weekly basis. Long may it continue to do so!!
A view from the Barra Councillor
1000th Edition is indeed a significant milestone and a tremendous achievement. On rare occasions we complain that there is nothing in it and in the next breath we complain that it is late, so it is surely accurate to say that it has become an institution!
My tribute must go to the production staff who ensure it is on sale each week without fail. They get recognised when there are big news items but surely the most difficult work is to produce the paper when there is a dearth of news. I would like to congratulate all involved in the Guth over the years and wish it well over the next 1,000 issues. Donald Manford
17/09/04
Moderator’s Visit
Dr Alison Elliot, The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, begins her visit to the Western Isles by arriving in Barra on Friday 17 Sept (this Friday). On her arrival by plane on Friday afternoon she will visit Castlebay Community School, then visit the new Community Hall in Castlebay.
On Friday evening she will Preach at a service in the church at Cuithir. This service beings at 6.30 pm and prior to it, at just before 6.00 pm there will be a ceremonial cutting of the First turf for the new church extension. Members of the local community are warmly invited to participate both in the ceremony and service.
Later in the evening, she will be the Guest of Honour at a dinner hosted by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar in the Isle of Barra Hotel. On Saturday she continues her visit to the Western Isles by travelling to the Uists where she will spend the weekend before moving North to Harris and Lewis next week. We extend a warm welcome to her from Barra and hope she has an enjoyable tour throughout the islands.
Three Vehicle Crash at Heatherhill
On Saturday 4th September, following a three vehicle road crash at Heather Hill, injures were sustained to one of the drivers as a result of this accident. Local Police have expressed their concern that, all too often, speed and other factors contribute to road crashes on the island. They also stated that, on this occasion, the severity of injuries could have been a lot worse. Those involved in this accident were extremely lucky to escape serious injury. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal, Lochmaddy with regard to this incident.
During have winter Period, the Police have stated that they will be carrying out various projects and stop checks with an aim to reducing and preventing further occurrences of this nature.
Best Wishes
Best wishes are extended to Iris Anderson and family who are moving from Barra this week. Iris, who has been in Barra for seven years in a joint Social Work & Housing post was actively involved in a number of community initiatives on the island and her ongoing support will be missed by the Housing Association and Cobhair Bharraigh.
Cal Mac Winter Timetable
This timetable will be finalised at the Shipping Services Committee meetings in Skye on the 22 and 23 September. Barra Transport committee has requested an additional sailing across the Sound of Barra at 9.30 to suit hospital appointments and meetings. This required extra funding which will now come from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar through the Rural Transport Scheme.
Issue No 999 this week
Next week the Big Millennium!
Yes, the Guth will be 20 years old and on its 1000th issue next week.
There is to be a special edition for the 1000th but it will be printed off the island.
THE content of the paper for next week has to be in Oban by 9am on Monday
We must have Guth adverts and notices etc by email, fax or through the post to be here today, Friday or Saturday. last minute for Monday 9am
10/09/04
Positive Outcomes From Absentee Initiative
An independent evaluation of the Crofters Commission’s Absentee Initiative has highlighted the success of this work. Over 1000 cases of absentee tenants have been resolved over the 6 years of the Initiative. An estimated additional 600 people are living in the areas targeted as a direct result of absentee action.
The Commission has been conscious of the sensitive nature of absentee work and is encouraged by the positive outcomes achieved. Commission Chairman, David Green said “The evaluation concluded that the Initiative has developed a momentum that is becoming increasingly appreciated by absentees, landlords and communities, and should continue. It is reassuring to see the Commission’s painstaking work on absenteeism recognised.”
The next phase of the Absentee Initiative will be progressing into the Wester Ross area in September/October 2004. Public meeting dates are being published in the local press.
For further information contact Shirley Allan on 01463 663454.
Herbidean Ferry Users conference - 1st October in Oban
The Cal Mac Users Committee are holding a ferry users conference in Oban on Friday 1st of October to bring together ferry passengers and user groups to discuss their Vision for Cal Mac Ferry Services for the next 20 years.
The CMUCC argue that Ferry users want clean, fast comfortable ferries at affordable prices that link with public transport accessible for all and as frequent as possible. At a time when the Cal Mac Ferry services are due to go out to tender, and when the Scottish Executive are due to announce a further short consultation period on the tender process, this conference is well timed to bring together ferry passengers to assess their views on the future vision for our ferry services. The conference will plit into workshops bringing together the small isles Mallaig and Skye, Stornoway Lochmaddy and Uig, South Uist, Barra, Coll and Tiree. It is therefore important that views from Barra are expressed at this conference.
For further information contact Voluntary Action Barra on 810 401.
BT extending the reach of broadband!
Following BT Wholesale trials in Milton Keynes and rural areas around Fort William and Dingwall in the Scottish Highlands, BT is confident a 512kb/sec ADSL service can now be provided to the vast majority of people beyond the former limit which was roughly equivalent to 6km distance from the exchange. The trial data indicates that removing the limit means 99.8 per cent of lines connected to a broadband exchange should now be able to get a 512kb/sec ADSL service.
To date approximately 96 per cent of homes and businesses connected to broadband enabled exchanges were within range for 512kb/sec ADSL.BT’s exchange upgrade programme to take broadband coverage to exchanges serving 99.6 per cent of households by summer 2005. Castlebay is due to be activated on 13 July 2005.
03/09/04
Concerns Raised Over New Air Ambulance Contract
It emerged this week that Loganair could be passed over for a new preferred bidder for the £40 million contract to provide aircraft for the vital air ambulance service.
The Scottish Ambulance Service have chosen Gama Aviation out of three companies who bid for the seven year contract which is due to commence in April 2006. Gama Aviation intend to support the contract with two helicopters and two new dedicated fixed-wing aircraft.
Concerns have been raised locally regarding aircraft suitability for landing on the beach and whether or not an escort can travel with a patient in the event of a helicopter being used.
The Chairman of Transportation Donald Manford stated that he would be putting forward an emergency item for discussion at the Transportation Committee meeting in Stornoway asking for further information on the preferred bidder and how they proposed to deliver the service.
He also stated that there would be a three month consultation period in place before any contract was finalised and gave his assurance that the Community Councils in all the areas concerned would be fully engaged in this formal process.
Western Isles Spinal Route Boost
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen formally announced yesterday that a £3.3m major road improvements project would take place in the Western Isles. The funding allocation will go through HITRANS who have supported the Comhairle in its campaign for additional roads money for the Western Isles.
The Comhairle has already committed £3.3m towards the spinal route project and an application has been submitted for a further £3.3m to the Highlands and Islands Transitional Programme. Overall the project will create somewhere in the region of 150 construction jobs over the next 3 years. The Comhairle aims to complete double track routes between Stornoway and Tarbert and between Lochmaddy and Clachan in North Uist.
Transportation Chairman Cllr Donald Manford said: "This is excellent news for the Western Isles. I want to thank the Minister for recognising the value of the Comhairle's case for additional money for our roads network. I also wish to thank HITRANS for their support. It has been a real team effort. With the Comhairle's funding in place and an application for the remaining money pending, the long held aspiration of a double track spinal route running the length of the Islands is close to becoming a reality. This project will not only provide major additional benefits to the Islands' transport infrastructure which has been transformed in recent years, but will also bring a substantial number of construction jobs over the next 3 years". Further Projects will follow.