Salmond Addresses Convention of the Highlands and Islands
From: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
The Highlands and Islands are Scotland's crown and now we need to find the smartest way to wear it, First Minister Alex Salmond told the Autumn Convention of the Highlands and Islands in Fort William today.
The convention, opened by Cabinet Secretary John Swinney, brings together a range of government partners including local councils, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Health Boards, Communities Scotland, Bord na Gaidhlig and the Forestry Commission.
The main topics for discussion at this session were transport, sustainable development, the use of broadband and healthcare in remote and rural areas.
Mr Salmond said: "We want to harness the new mood of optimism sweeping the nation and use it to push Scotland towards sustainable success on the global stage. The Highlands and Islands hold many of the assets that can set us apart from international competition. The challenge now is to make sure we put them in the right position to be able to fulfil that potential.
"This government has already set out its plans to re-energise Highlands and Islands Enterprise by reducing bureaucracy and streamlining local delivery. Meanwhile the Council of Economic Advisers has been formed to help inform government strategy. Businesses have never been better placed to push into international markets and now it's time for the Highlands and Islands to step forward.
"With stunning scenery, history, architecture and a of wealth culture to enjoy ý the Highlands and Islands are Scotland's crown and now we need to find the smartest way to wear it. We have an attractive destination for tourists, investors, students and professionals alike. By making every effort to promote our assets we can attract the wealth, opportunities and reputation that will allow business to thrive.
"Our culture and heritage include strong bonds with many millions around the world ý a Celtic network that we can all benefit from. It is a culture not only displayed in the annual highlight that is The Mod but has also been demonstrated throughout 2007 with the fantastic Year of Highland Culture. For our remarkable culture to blossom it is important that we find ways to marry it to academic learning. That's why I hope that next year I will be congratulating the UHI Millennium Institute on achieving university status."
"For now, the important thing is that we match our ambitions with energy and as we do so the Highlands and Islands will be Scotland's crown."
Speaking at the convention the First Minister was also able to give good news to Fort William and Lochaber as he revealed that the point of entry campaign to be unveiled by the Scottish Government for next year will feature the mountain bike world cup as an illustration of what Scotland has to offer. This will not only be a boost for biking but a good example of local, outward reaching events helping to sell Scotland.