26th October

 

The main focus of the conversation was our response to Scot Gov Consultations. Those present agreed that this process is worthwhile, but the method can be refined.

In addition: the nature of the involvement of bodies such as HIE should be carefully worded to reflect loose partnership.

1. Current focus: Land Reform Bill (deadline 30th October).

   • Land Reform in a Net Zero Nation - Scottish Government - Citizen Space (consult.gov.scot)

   • Lizzie has received responses to the internal NW2045 questionnaire for which she is very grateful and recognises the large amount of effort required.

   • Lizzie will consolidate the 3 responses + the SWT & JMT responses that have been shared, and distribute this for comment, with swift turnaround.

     • There will not be consensus on some points but it is important to represent the diverse views.

   • It is important to establish how our consolidated response will be received by the civil servants, to inform future efforts.

 

1. Future efforts, ie Agric Bill (deadline 27th November)

   • Delivering our Vision for Scottish Agriculture. Proposals for a new Agriculture Bill - Scottish Government - Citizen Space (consult.gov.scot)

     • We should use existing information / consultation events rather than trying to create our own, ie Nourish Scotland - Agriculture Bill consultation workshops and Scot Gov – online sessions on various specific issues:

   • Suggestion: partners with an interest attend whichever of these events suits best, and we meet early in w/c 14th Nov to discuss approach. Lizzie plans to attend Nourish event Friday 4th November.

 

Other updates:

• Martin has resigned from HIE; he will be working until Christmas, when he leaves for a new job in Nova Scotia. We thank him for all his hard work and wish him all the very best.

• David Bell shared a link to a BBC programme which aired last night (and features David): ‘Who Lives in Scotland?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001dlbm/who-lives-in-scotland-series-1-1-on-the-move

• Boyd drew our attention to an event hosted by Highland Council, NHS and WildLand re the North Sutherland Health & Social Care Hub. Durness, Weds 2nd November, drop-in 2-7pm. (poster attached).

• Laura requested clarity on the current structure of RLUP and NW2045.

• SLC are holding a series of ‘Land @ Lunch’ bitesize briefings: Events - News & Events - Scottish Land Commission. Alternate Wednesdays (next is Weds 2nd Nov).

 

• Frances, Rachel and Lizzie have since discussed the oft-requested ‘full’ NW2045 meeting. We suggest Weds 9th November for a 2 hr meeting to discuss where the NW2045 has got to, and where you would like it to go. Details to follow.