Community News for the Scottish Government, East and South Ayrshire

South Ayrshire Council

The launch of the South Ayrshire Youth Strategy Investing in Young People was launched at Ayr Town Hall. Master of Ceremonies for the event was Erin Norris the Chair of South Ayrshire’s Youth Forum.

Provost’s Medal Presented To Dr James A Begg MBE

South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan hosted a Civic Reception to mark the opening of the Ayrshire Coastal Paths, but an unsuspecting guest got the surprise of his life when the Provost presented him with something very special.

Age Is Insignificant At Morrison Gardens

Residents from Morrison Gardens in Ayr have been breaking down generation barriers and working with people of all ages across the community as part of the South Ayrshire Help Unit Generations (HUG) network.

Ayr Town Centre Renaissance

Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have approved the establishment of a Limited Liability Partnership to progress the Ayr Renaissance project and turn the vision into a reality.

Council Tax Collection Rate

At 31 May 2008 South Ayrshire Council had a Council Tax collection rate of 10.95% which was above the previously set target of 10.77%.

Heritage Lottery Funding Boost For Burns Museum

The new Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, that will be located in Alloway in South Ayrshire, is one step closer, thanks to £5.8 million pounds of Heritage Lottery Funding (HLF).

Improving Services Improving The Environment

South Ayrshire Council has an enviable record in recycling and composting and is already meeting the 2010 recycling target set by the Scottish Government, two years ahead of schedule.

Promoting Arts And Culture

South Ayrshire Council is applying to the Scottish Arts Council for funding to assist in the creation of a post of Senior Cultural Co-ordinator for an initial period of one year.

Review Of School Estate

Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have been focusing on the progress being made on the Fundamental Review of the School Estate and in particular on the future of Whitletts Primary School.

School Holiday Arrangements 2009/10

South Ayrshire Council has now approved the school holiday for the academic year 2009/10.

Spotlight On South Ayrshire Homecoming 20009

South Ayrshire Council is committed to Homecoming Scotland 2009. It has already been successful in securing the first Signature Event, that will be hosted by the First Minister Alex Salmond, in Alloway over the weekend of 24 and 25 January 2009.

New And Upgraded Straiton Paths Network Opened

A special community celebration took place in Straiton to mark the completion of the upgrading of the Straiton Paths network and the addition of some new paths and wooden sculptures.

Belmont Academy Join In National Bike Week

In celebration of National Bike Week, a bike clinic was held for the students and employees at Belmont Academy.

Celebrating Achievements Of The Friends Of The Gaiety

South Ayrshire Council’s County Hall was the venue for a very special audience when Provost Winifred Sloan hosted a Civic Reception for the Friends of the Gaiety Theatre, Johnny Beattie, The Alexander Brothers and Anne Fields.

Celebrating National Bike Week

Some South Ayrshire Council pupils who will soon be moving from their primary schools to Belmont Academy have celebrated National Bike Week by cycling from their current schools to their new one.

Mancini’s Scoop Top Award

Mancini’s Royal Cafe in Ayr has won several awards at a prestigious national ice cream competition, to mark their achievement South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan presented the company with a Quaich.

Provost In The Shade

South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan looked cooler than usual when she showed her support for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Shades Day on 20 June 2008 by wearing her favourite sunglasses.

Queen Margaret Academy Dancers

Dancing is a very popular pastime with people of all ages and the thriving dance club in Queen Margaret Academy shows that many of their students are keen to learn how to dance, or to improve their existing skills.

Seaside Award Flown With Pride

Once again South Ayrshire Council has been given a Seaside Award by Keep Scotland Beautiful for the standard of South Ayr beach.

Homecoming Scotland 2009

First Minister Alex Salmond unveiled the nationwide programme of celebration for Homecoming Scotland 2009 that has been inspired by the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland’s national Bard, Robert Burns.

Monkton Primary School Officially Opened

The new Monkton Primary School, that cost £4.97 million pounds and was built as part of South Ayrshire Council’s ambitious £76 million Public Private Partnership (PPP) project, has been officially opened.

Marr Pupils ’Bin It To Win It’

Marr College pupils want to keep their school looking good so they are taking part in a ‘Bin It To Win It’ initiative to rid the school of litter. They decided to start as they mean to go on by taking part in a litter pick in the school grounds.

Prestwick Oval Environmental Clean Up

The Oval in Prestwick is looking better than ever thanks to a group of local volunteers that have been working hard to improve the area.

Fuel Measures on the Level

With the cost of fuel causing so much concern, South Ayrshire Trading Standards is reassuring motorists that they are getting fair measure when they fill up locally.

Retailers told to do better on Proof of Age

South Ayrshire Trading Standards this week described their latest test purchasing results as ‘appalling’ and have told local retailers they need to do much better.

Save Energy in the Home - Calendar Competition

South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan presented the winners of the Energy Agency 2009 Calendar Competition Awards with prizes and the runners up with certificates at a ceremony within the County Buildings in Ayr.

South Ayrshire History Fair 2008

The annual South Ayrshire History Fair, that took place in the Walker Halls in Troon, once again attracted local people and many visitors to the town who were keen to find out more about a range of historical matters

Pupils get on their Dancing Shoes

South Ayrshire Council has launched Phase 2 of the Active Schools Network in South Ayrshire

Auditors optimistic over Council renewed sense of purpose

South Ayrshire Council has received a welcome boost from Audit Scotland, who have commented that Council’s performance and management is showing a new sense of optimism and purpose which is driving business forwards.

Police Pedal to Success

South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership has funded the purchase of four bicycles, one for each of the Campus Police Officers who work in Ayr Academy, Belmont Academy, Kyle Academy and Marr College.

Council Tax Collection Rate Continues to Rise

At 30 April 2008 South Ayrshire Council has a Council Tax collection rate of 1.47% that is above the set target of 1.34%.

Fostering, Adoption and Shared Care Services Allowances

The allowances paid to people who provide vital fostering, adoption and shared care for young people within communities in South Ayrshire have been increased as from April 2008.

Sailwest Project will attract Sailors to South Ayrshire

Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have agreed to the submission of a funding application to the Sailwest Project, which could lead to the economy of South Ayrshire being boosted by three exciting maritime projects.

Update on Housing and Council Tax Benefit

Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have received an update from Officers on the service improvements being undertaken to help the Council meet national standards for housing and Council Tax benefits.

Enforcing Dog Fouling Regulations

Officers from South Ayrshire Council’s Environmental Health section, working in partnership with colleagues from other sections of the Council, have been carrying out targeted patrols and enforcing the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003

Full Council Considers Standards and Governance Panel Report

South Ayrshire Council at its meeting held on 22 May 2008 considered recommendations from its Standards and Governance Panel with regard to findings of an investigation conducted by the Panel in respect of an alleged abuse of call-in procedures.

New Law to Better Protect South Ayrshire Consumers

South Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards service has welcomed the introduction of the new Consumer Protection Regulations that come into force this week

Great Scott! Mary Celebrates 100th Birthday Milestone

Ayr resident Mary Scott has celebrated her 100th birthday this year with a visit from South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Peter Kennedy.

Follow The Ayr-Ways And The Pocket Map

Carnegie Library in Ayr and the town centre echoed with the sound of a Town Crier at the dual launch of Ayr’s new distinctive black and gold Ayr-Ways signage system of mapping and information points in Ayr town centre and FREE pocket sized map.

Cycling Is A Breeze in South Ayrshire

In 2007 South Ayrshire Council won the Scottish Transport Award 2007 Walking and Cycling Award.

More Employees Turn To Pedal Power

Many South Ayrshire Council employees are choosing to use pedal power to get to and from work, with some even using their bikes for business journeys.

Alerations To Links Road Car Park In Prestwick

South Ayrshire Council has listened to the concerns raised by members of the public about the car park in Links Road in Prestwick being used for overnight parking.

Ayr North Resident Wins Recycling Prize

Susan McQuiston, who lives in north Ayr, won a £100 prize voucher to spend in Tesco after taking part in a South Ayrshire Council pilot project to encourage people to recycle more.

Bright Future For Colmonell And Pinwherry Primary Schools

South Ayrshire Council’s Fundamental Review of Colmonell and Pinwherry Primary Schools.

Committed To Carbon Management

Members of the Council’s Leadership Panel are driving forward the Council’s commitment to carbon management and have approved a Carbon Management and Implementation Plan.

Key Strengths Of Queen Margaret Academy

The Head Teacher of Queen Margaret Academy gave a presentation to members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel about the HM Inspectors of Education inspection that was carried out in the school in November 2007.

Racecourse Development Plans Romp Home

Ambitious plans to turn Ayr Racecourse into not only one of the top racecourses in Europe but also one of the most prestigious leisure destinations in the country have been approved by South Ayrshire Council.

South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership Conference

The South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership will be holding a conference on Thursday 19 June 2008 in the County Hall within the County Buildings in Ayr.

Special Schools in South Ayrshire

A Fundamental Review of the School Estate in South Ayrshire has now focused on Special Schools.

Supporting Vulnerable Adults

A wide range of services are provided by South Ayrshire Council to support vulnerable people in our communities and this service is to be further enhanced.

Temporary Closure Of Gaiety Theatre Delayed

The temporary closure of the Gaiety in Ayr is to be delayed until 2009. This means that the theatre will remain open and fully operational until 31 January 2009.

Scotland's Government

Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission

Ninth Annual Report published.

Bluetongue vaccine

Twelve million doses of bluetongue vaccine for Scottish livestock have been secured.

Improving protection for vulnerable people

New vetting and barring scheme to strengthen protection for children and protected adults.

New police recruits

Scottish Government repeats pledge to improve visible police presence.

Part time sheriff appointed

New appointment to the office of part-time sheriff.

Sustainable Communities Initiative

Councils and their partners encouraged to promote sustainability in future housing plans.

Care of arrested children

Recommendations to improve system of care for arrested or detained children.

Compendium of Labour Market Statistics

A National Statistics for Scotland publication.

Cooking Bus starts rolling

Kitchen on wheels to give children and parents lessons on simple healthy cooking.

Foot and Mouth Review

Action by Scottish Government during 2007 outbreak was 'quick and decisive'.

FPV Hirta

Official commissioning of new fisheries protection vessel.

Appointment of part-time sheriffs

Three new appointments announced.

Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland 2006-07

A National Statistics Publication for Scotland.

One-stop-shop for farmers launched

New service to reduce bureaucracy for farmers.

Risk Management Authority

Convener appointed to the Risk Management Authority (RMA).

Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB)

Wages Board under review.

Sea eagles have landed

Ministerial welcome for ‘Flying barn door’ chicks from Norway.

Statistics show Scotland in surplus

Finance Secretary says with independence Scotland can increase its wealth even further.

First Minister to host 'Supermarket Summit'

Autumn summit with leading retailers to help Scotland's economic growth.

Food and drink in Scotland

Next steps towards country's first national food and drink policy.

Improving statistical services

Response to statistics reform consultation.

60 years of the NHS

New website charting history of the NHS in Scotland to mark anniversary.

Call centre jobs to be saved

First Minister welcomes moves to protect 800 jobs at Goldfish site in Cumbernauld.

Minister comments on poverty statistics

Figure showing 210,000 children living in low income families 'morally unacceptable'.

More Choices, More Chances

Conference puts spotlight on how to create a better future for young people in Scotland.

Scottish Households Below Average Income 2006-07

A National Statistics Publication for Scotland.

Call for firearms law review

Justice Secretary suggests Scotland pilot new gun control measures.

Graduate endowment fee

Regulations laid in Parliament to allow students to pay deferred fees by loan.

Help for rural communities

New one-stop-shop to help those living and working in rural areas to access funding.

National Carers Week

Start of national week to recognise the contribution carers make to society.

New sheriff appointed

Kenneth Richard Robb, solicitor, appointed sheriff.

Parents and the curriculum

Parents encoraged to play greater role in children's education.

Civil court fees

Proposed increases to civil court and Public Guardian fees.

Glasgow's housing stock transfer

Assessment of stock transfer valuation report.

New vision for Rum

Go ahead given for conclusion of agreement on future development of land and property.

Opening of Dumfries House

Public to get access to historic building for first time in 250 years.

Recognising the value of Scotland's colleges

First Minister says colleges can deliver greater public value.

War heroes honoured

Work of the Scottish Women's Hospital for Foreign Service (SWHFS) marked in Paris.

Clampdown on bluetongue

Tightening of controls over the movement of animals from restricted zone into Scotland.

Mountain biking gets its share

Investment of almost £800,000 to upgrade and improve sports facilities across Scotland.

New Baccalaureates for Scotland

New qualifications in science and languages to be introduced for S5 and S6 pupils.

Climate Challenge Fund

New £18.8 million fund to help local communities tackle global challenge.

Criminal Proceedings in Scottish Courts

A National Statistics Publication for Scotland.

Drug Seizures by Scottish Police Forces

A National Statistics Publication for Scotland.

More court prosecutions recorded

Number of custodial sentences imposed the highest for 10 years.

Police seize more Class A drugs

Rise in seizures shows strong enforcement action - Justice Secretary.

Drug treatment and testing

New £1 million pilot testing model gets underway in the Lothians and Borders.

MRSA screening programme

Pilot project checks non-emergency patients in pre-admission procedures.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

New member appointed to Board of Trustees.

Rural Development Council up and running

A new group is established to help shape properous future for rural Scotland.

Scotland Performs goes live

New website allows the Scottish Government's progress to be tracked against a range of indicators.

Bathing water designations

Number of officially recognised bathing waters rises by a third to a total of 80.

Dentists' pay agreement

New deal struck to financially award practices treating large numbers of NHS patients.

First meeting of Fuel Task Force

Task Force meets to help fishing industry cope with rising fuel prices.

Fishing income increases

A National Statistics publication for Scotland.

Freight contract for Northern Isles firm

Northern isles ecnonomy set to benefit as freight contract awarded to Shetland Line (1984) Ltd.

Highland stop for 2014 roadshow

Highlanders to have their say on Commonwealth Games legacy at event in Inverness.

Improving police service

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (HMICS) report.

Investment in housing

Funding of £1.5 billion to deliver 21,500 new affordable homes by 2011.

Support for financial services

2,500 jobs to be created in the sector with the help of Scottish Government grants.

Water charges

Small charities, churches and voluntary organisations will continue to be exempt from paying water charges.

Independent Review of Policing

Review will investigate the roles and responsiblities of police forces across Scotland.

Promoting Scottish produce

Cabinet Secretary eats only Scottish for a week to highlight benefits of home-grown food.

Action on wildlife crime

Scottish Government accepts recommendations to improve investigation and prosecution of wildlife crime.

Appointment to sportscotland

Sports Minister welcomes appointment of Louise Martin CBE to Chair of sportscotland.

Attitudes to Government in Scotland

First Minister welcomes research showing increased trust in Scottish Government.

Help for fuel poor

New forum set up to advise Government on tackling fuel poverty.

Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration

Appointment of member to SCRA Board.

sportscotland

Appointment of Chair.

Tackling climate change

Scotland entering critical period in tackling climate change - Cabinet Secretary.

Action to stub out smoking

£9 million action plan to help smokers kick the habit and stop young people from starting.

Farming and climate change

Report calls for more awareness of climate change by agricultural sector.

Funding support for basketball

£275,000 to increase participation and retain talented young players.

Action on carrier bags

Cabinet Secretary meets with retailers to discuss how to tackle over-use of bags.

Advisory Committee on Sites of Special Scientific Interest

Convenor re-appointed.

Crime cash to fund culture scheme

Money seized from criminals to help provide arts activities for young people.

Inspectorate of Prosecution

Inspection report on Grampian area of Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

Meeting to discuss pig sector

Talks between the hospitality, retail and wholesale sectors with Scotland's pig industry.

North Ayrshire housing

Right to Buy for some tenants suspended due to pressure on affordable housing.

Access to information

Pilot scheme to increase proactive publication of Scottish Government information.

Bright future for fishing communities

Fisheries Secretary says focus next year will be on putting fishing communities in charge of their own future.

Fuel help for fishing industry

Action plan to help Scottish fishing sector counter the effects of rising fuel costs.

Future of crofting

Report outlining future vision for crofting in 21st century Scotland published.

Road safety

Transport Minister meets A9 traffic police to hear their views on road safety.

Action to help red squirrels

Four additional Grey Squirrel Control Officers to be employed in woodlands in the south of Scotland.

Better access to learning resources

System to provide access to state-of-the-art education material for visually impaired young people.

PE in schools

Schools to offer two hours PE per week under new education guidelines.

Burma emergency appeal

Scottish Government backs Disasters Emergency Committee and urges Scots to do the same.

Europe Day

Minister highlights importance of 'strengthening Scotland's voice in Europe'.

Funding to encourage business innovation

Five projects to benefit from grants to encourage cooperation in research and development.

Regenerating rural Scotland

Supporting rural communities a 'priority for the Scottish Government' - Minister.

Appointment to Public Transport Users’ Committee for Scotland

New convenor appointed to PTUC.

Help for Scottish war heroes

First dedicated fund for Scottish servicemen and women.

Initiative to tackle animal disease

Major new project to tackle infectious animal diseases.

NHS 60th anniversary celebrations

National and local events to mark 60 years of the National Health Service.

Reducing the use of plastic bags

Environment Secretary praises Marks and Spencer's approach.

'Sobering' costs of alcohol

Alcohol misuse is costing Scotland £2.25 billion per year.

Law 'loophole' to be changed

Scottish Government to repeal the law which exempts spouses from giving evidence against their partner.

Scots speak out on food

Rural Affairs Secretary thanks contributors to the national discussion on food.

Support for lifelong learning

New £1.5 million fund to back development of international lifelong learning strategy.

Church joins the Conversation

Parliament Minister says Church of Scotland is 'one of main voices of Scottish society'.

Scotland4me.net		'Community News'


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South Ayrshire Council Investing In Young People The launch of the South Ayrshire Youth Strategy Investing in Young People was launched at Ayr Town Hall. Master of Ceremonies for the event was Erin Norris the Chair of South Ayrshire’s Youth Forum. Provost’s Medal Presented To Dr James A Begg MBE South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan hosted a Civic Reception to mark the opening of the Ayrshire Coastal Paths, but an unsuspecting guest got the surprise of his life when the Provost presented him with something very special. Age Is Insignificant At Morrison Gardens Residents from Morrison Gardens in Ayr have been breaking down generation barriers and working with people of all ages across the community as part of the South Ayrshire Help Unit Generations (HUG) network. Ayr Town Centre Renaissance Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have approved the establishment of a Limited Liability Partnership to progress the Ayr Renaissance project and turn the vision into a reality. Council Tax Collection Rate At 31 May 2008 South Ayrshire Council had a Council Tax collection rate of 10.95% which was above the previously set target of 10.77%. Heritage Lottery Funding Boost For Burns Museum The new Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, that will be located in Alloway in South Ayrshire, is one step closer, thanks to £5.8 million pounds of Heritage Lottery Funding (HLF). Improving Services Improving The Environment South Ayrshire Council has an enviable record in recycling and composting and is already meeting the 2010 recycling target set by the Scottish Government, two years ahead of schedule. Promoting Arts And Culture South Ayrshire Council is applying to the Scottish Arts Council for funding to assist in the creation of a post of Senior Cultural Co-ordinator for an initial period of one year. Review Of School Estate Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have been focusing on the progress being made on the Fundamental Review of the School Estate and in particular on the future of Whitletts Primary School. School Holiday Arrangements 2009/10 South Ayrshire Council has now approved the school holiday for the academic year 2009/10. Spotlight On South Ayrshire Homecoming 20009 South Ayrshire Council is committed to Homecoming Scotland 2009. It has already been successful in securing the first Signature Event, that will be hosted by the First Minister Alex Salmond, in Alloway over the weekend of 24 and 25 January 2009. New And Upgraded Straiton Paths Network Opened A special community celebration took place in Straiton to mark the completion of the upgrading of the Straiton Paths network and the addition of some new paths and wooden sculptures. Belmont Academy Join In National Bike Week In celebration of National Bike Week, a bike clinic was held for the students and employees at Belmont Academy. Celebrating Achievements Of The Friends Of The Gaiety South Ayrshire Council’s County Hall was the venue for a very special audience when Provost Winifred Sloan hosted a Civic Reception for the Friends of the Gaiety Theatre, Johnny Beattie, The Alexander Brothers and Anne Fields. Celebrating National Bike Week Some South Ayrshire Council pupils who will soon be moving from their primary schools to Belmont Academy have celebrated National Bike Week by cycling from their current schools to their new one. Mancini’s Scoop Top Award Mancini’s Royal Cafe in Ayr has won several awards at a prestigious national ice cream competition, to mark their achievement South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan presented the company with a Quaich. Provost In The Shade South Ayrshire Council Provost Winifred Sloan looked cooler than usual when she showed her support for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Shades Day on 20 June 2008 by wearing her favourite sunglasses. Queen Margaret Academy Dancers Dancing is a very popular pastime with people of all ages and the thriving dance club in Queen Margaret Academy shows that many of their students are keen to learn how to dance, or to improve their existing skills. Seaside Award Flown With Pride Once again South Ayrshire Council has been given a Seaside Award by Keep Scotland Beautiful for the standard of South Ayr beach. Homecoming Scotland 2009 First Minister Alex Salmond unveiled the nationwide programme of celebration for Homecoming Scotland 2009 that has been inspired by the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland’s national Bard, Robert Burns. Monkton Primary School Officially Opened The new Monkton Primary School, that cost £4.97 million pounds and was built as part of South Ayrshire Council’s ambitious £76 million Public Private Partnership (PPP) project, has been officially opened. Marr Pupils ’Bin It To Win It’ Marr College pupils want to keep their school looking good so they are taking part in a ‘Bin It To Win It’ initiative to rid the school of litter. They decided to start as they mean to go on by taking part in a litter pick in the school grounds. Prestwick Oval Environmental Clean Up The Oval in Prestwick is looking better than ever thanks to a group of local volunteers that have been working hard to improve the area. Fuel Measures on the Level With the cost of fuel causing so much concern, South Ayrshire Trading Standards is reassuring motorists that they are getting fair measure when they fill up locally. Retailers told to do better on Proof of Age South Ayrshire Trading Standards this week described their latest test purchasing results as ‘appalling’ and have told local retailers they need to do much better. Save Energy in the Home - Calendar Competition South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan presented the winners of the Energy Agency 2009 Calendar Competition Awards with prizes and the runners up with certificates at a ceremony within the County Buildings in Ayr. South Ayrshire History Fair 2008 The annual South Ayrshire History Fair, that took place in the Walker Halls in Troon, once again attracted local people and many visitors to the town who were keen to find out more about a range of historical matters Pupils get on their Dancing Shoes South Ayrshire Council has launched Phase 2 of the Active Schools Network in South Ayrshire Auditors optimistic over Council renewed sense of purpose South Ayrshire Council has received a welcome boost from Audit Scotland, who have commented that Council’s performance and management is showing a new sense of optimism and purpose which is driving business forwards. Police Pedal to Success South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership has funded the purchase of four bicycles, one for each of the Campus Police Officers who work in Ayr Academy, Belmont Academy, Kyle Academy and Marr College. Council Tax Collection Rate Continues to Rise At 30 April 2008 South Ayrshire Council has a Council Tax collection rate of 1.47% that is above the set target of 1.34%. Fostering, Adoption and Shared Care Services Allowances The allowances paid to people who provide vital fostering, adoption and shared care for young people within communities in South Ayrshire have been increased as from April 2008. Sailwest Project will attract Sailors to South Ayrshire Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have agreed to the submission of a funding application to the Sailwest Project, which could lead to the economy of South Ayrshire being boosted by three exciting maritime projects. Update on Housing and Council Tax Benefit Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have received an update from Officers on the service improvements being undertaken to help the Council meet national standards for housing and Council Tax benefits. Enforcing Dog Fouling Regulations Officers from South Ayrshire Council’s Environmental Health section, working in partnership with colleagues from other sections of the Council, have been carrying out targeted patrols and enforcing the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003 Full Council Considers Standards and Governance Panel Report South Ayrshire Council at its meeting held on 22 May 2008 considered recommendations from its Standards and Governance Panel with regard to findings of an investigation conducted by the Panel in respect of an alleged abuse of call-in procedures. New Law to Better Protect South Ayrshire Consumers South Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards service has welcomed the introduction of the new Consumer Protection Regulations that come into force this week Great Scott! Mary Celebrates 100th Birthday Milestone Ayr resident Mary Scott has celebrated her 100th birthday this year with a visit from South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Peter Kennedy. Follow The Ayr-Ways And The Pocket Map Carnegie Library in Ayr and the town centre echoed with the sound of a Town Crier at the dual launch of Ayr’s new distinctive black and gold Ayr-Ways signage system of mapping and information points in Ayr town centre and FREE pocket sized map. Cycling Is A Breeze in South Ayrshire In 2007 South Ayrshire Council won the Scottish Transport Award 2007 Walking and Cycling Award. More Employees Turn To Pedal Power Many South Ayrshire Council employees are choosing to use pedal power to get to and from work, with some even using their bikes for business journeys. Alerations To Links Road Car Park In Prestwick South Ayrshire Council has listened to the concerns raised by members of the public about the car park in Links Road in Prestwick being used for overnight parking. Ayr North Resident Wins Recycling Prize Susan McQuiston, who lives in north Ayr, won a £100 prize voucher to spend in Tesco after taking part in a South Ayrshire Council pilot project to encourage people to recycle more. Bright Future For Colmonell And Pinwherry Primary Schools South Ayrshire Council’s Fundamental Review of Colmonell and Pinwherry Primary Schools. Committed To Carbon Management Members of the Council’s Leadership Panel are driving forward the Council’s commitment to carbon management and have approved a Carbon Management and Implementation Plan. Key Strengths Of Queen Margaret Academy The Head Teacher of Queen Margaret Academy gave a presentation to members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel about the HM Inspectors of Education inspection that was carried out in the school in November 2007. Racecourse Development Plans Romp Home Ambitious plans to turn Ayr Racecourse into not only one of the top racecourses in Europe but also one of the most prestigious leisure destinations in the country have been approved by South Ayrshire Council. South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership Conference The South Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership will be holding a conference on Thursday 19 June 2008 in the County Hall within the County Buildings in Ayr. Special Schools in South Ayrshire A Fundamental Review of the School Estate in South Ayrshire has now focused on Special Schools. Supporting Vulnerable Adults A wide range of services are provided by South Ayrshire Council to support vulnerable people in our communities and this service is to be further enhanced. Temporary Closure Of Gaiety Theatre Delayed The temporary closure of the Gaiety in Ayr is to be delayed until 2009. This means that the theatre will remain open and fully operational until 31 January 2009.	Scotland's Government Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission Ninth Annual Report published. Bluetongue vaccine Twelve million doses of bluetongue vaccine for Scottish livestock have been secured. Improving protection for vulnerable people New vetting and barring scheme to strengthen protection for children and protected adults. New police recruits Scottish Government repeats pledge to improve visible police presence. Part time sheriff appointed New appointment to the office of part-time sheriff. Sustainable Communities Initiative Councils and their partners encouraged to promote sustainability in future housing plans. Care of arrested children Recommendations to improve system of care for arrested or detained children. Compendium of Labour Market Statistics A National Statistics for Scotland publication. Cooking Bus starts rolling Kitchen on wheels to give children and parents lessons on simple healthy cooking. Foot and Mouth Review Action by Scottish Government during 2007 outbreak was 'quick and decisive'. FPV Hirta Official commissioning of new fisheries protection vessel. Appointment of part-time sheriffs Three new appointments announced. Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland 2006-07 A National Statistics Publication for Scotland. One-stop-shop for farmers launched New service to reduce bureaucracy for farmers. Risk Management Authority Convener appointed to the Risk Management Authority (RMA). Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB) Wages Board under review. Sea eagles have landed Ministerial welcome for ‘Flying barn door’ chicks from Norway. Statistics show Scotland in surplus Finance Secretary says with independence Scotland can increase its wealth even further. First Minister to host 'Supermarket Summit' Autumn summit with leading retailers to help Scotland's economic growth. Food and drink in Scotland Next steps towards country's first national food and drink policy. Improving statistical services Response to statistics reform consultation. 60 years of the NHS New website charting history of the NHS in Scotland to mark anniversary. Call centre jobs to be saved First Minister welcomes moves to protect 800 jobs at Goldfish site in Cumbernauld. Minister comments on poverty statistics Figure showing 210,000 children living in low income families 'morally unacceptable'. More Choices, More Chances Conference puts spotlight on how to create a better future for young people in Scotland. Scottish Households Below Average Income 2006-07 A National Statistics Publication for Scotland. Call for firearms law review Justice Secretary suggests Scotland pilot new gun control measures. Graduate endowment fee Regulations laid in Parliament to allow students to pay deferred fees by loan. Help for rural communities New one-stop-shop to help those living and working in rural areas to access funding. National Carers Week Start of national week to recognise the contribution carers make to society. New sheriff appointed Kenneth Richard Robb, solicitor, appointed sheriff. Parents and the curriculum Parents encoraged to play greater role in children's education. Civil court fees Proposed increases to civil court and Public Guardian fees. Glasgow's housing stock transfer Assessment of stock transfer valuation report. New vision for Rum Go ahead given for conclusion of agreement on future development of land and property. Opening of Dumfries House Public to get access to historic building for first time in 250 years. Recognising the value of Scotland's colleges First Minister says colleges can deliver greater public value. War heroes honoured Work of the Scottish Women's Hospital for Foreign Service (SWHFS) marked in Paris. Clampdown on bluetongue Tightening of controls over the movement of animals from restricted zone into Scotland. Mountain biking gets its share Investment of almost £800,000 to upgrade and improve sports facilities across Scotland. New Baccalaureates for Scotland New qualifications in science and languages to be introduced for S5 and S6 pupils. Climate Challenge Fund New £18.8 million fund to help local communities tackle global challenge. Criminal Proceedings in Scottish Courts A National Statistics Publication for Scotland. Drug Seizures by Scottish Police Forces A National Statistics Publication for Scotland. More court prosecutions recorded Number of custodial sentences imposed the highest for 10 years. Police seize more Class A drugs Rise in seizures shows strong enforcement action - Justice Secretary. Drug treatment and testing New £1 million pilot testing model gets underway in the Lothians and Borders. MRSA screening programme Pilot project checks non-emergency patients in pre-admission procedures. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh New member appointed to Board of Trustees. Rural Development Council up and running A new group is established to help shape properous future for rural Scotland. Scotland Performs goes live New website allows the Scottish Government's progress to be tracked against a range of indicators. Bathing water designations Number of officially recognised bathing waters rises by a third to a total of 80. Dentists' pay agreement New deal struck to financially award practices treating large numbers of NHS patients. First meeting of Fuel Task Force Task Force meets to help fishing industry cope with rising fuel prices. Fishing income increases A National Statistics publication for Scotland. Freight contract for Northern Isles firm Northern isles ecnonomy set to benefit as freight contract awarded to Shetland Line (1984) Ltd. Highland stop for 2014 roadshow Highlanders to have their say on Commonwealth Games legacy at event in Inverness. Improving police service Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (HMICS) report. Investment in housing Funding of £1.5 billion to deliver 21,500 new affordable homes by 2011. Support for financial services 2,500 jobs to be created in the sector with the help of Scottish Government grants. Water charges Small charities, churches and voluntary organisations will continue to be exempt from paying water charges. Independent Review of Policing Review will investigate the roles and responsiblities of police forces across Scotland. Promoting Scottish produce Cabinet Secretary eats only Scottish for a week to highlight benefits of home-grown food. Action on wildlife crime Scottish Government accepts recommendations to improve investigation and prosecution of wildlife crime. Appointment to sportscotland Sports Minister welcomes appointment of Louise Martin CBE to Chair of sportscotland. Attitudes to Government in Scotland First Minister welcomes research showing increased trust in Scottish Government. Help for fuel poor New forum set up to advise Government on tackling fuel poverty. Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration Appointment of member to SCRA Board. sportscotland Appointment of Chair. Tackling climate change Scotland entering critical period in tackling climate change - Cabinet Secretary. Action to stub out smoking £9 million action plan to help smokers kick the habit and stop young people from starting. Farming and climate change Report calls for more awareness of climate change by agricultural sector. Funding support for basketball £275,000 to increase participation and retain talented young players. Action on carrier bags Cabinet Secretary meets with retailers to discuss how to tackle over-use of bags. Advisory Committee on Sites of Special Scientific Interest Convenor re-appointed. Crime cash to fund culture scheme Money seized from criminals to help provide arts activities for young people. Inspectorate of Prosecution Inspection report on Grampian area of Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. Meeting to discuss pig sector Talks between the hospitality, retail and wholesale sectors with Scotland's pig industry. North Ayrshire housing Right to Buy for some tenants suspended due to pressure on affordable housing. Access to information Pilot scheme to increase proactive publication of Scottish Government information. Bright future for fishing communities Fisheries Secretary says focus next year will be on putting fishing communities in charge of their own future. Fuel help for fishing industry Action plan to help Scottish fishing sector counter the effects of rising fuel costs. Future of crofting Report outlining future vision for crofting in 21st century Scotland published. Road safety Transport Minister meets A9 traffic police to hear their views on road safety. Action to help red squirrels Four additional Grey Squirrel Control Officers to be employed in woodlands in the south of Scotland. Better access to learning resources System to provide access to state-of-the-art education material for visually impaired young people. PE in schools Schools to offer two hours PE per week under new education guidelines. Burma emergency appeal Scottish Government backs Disasters Emergency Committee and urges Scots to do the same. Europe Day Minister highlights importance of 'strengthening Scotland's voice in Europe'. Funding to encourage business innovation Five projects to benefit from grants to encourage cooperation in research and development. Regenerating rural Scotland Supporting rural communities a 'priority for the Scottish Government' - Minister. Appointment to Public Transport Users’ Committee for Scotland New convenor appointed to PTUC. Help for Scottish war heroes First dedicated fund for Scottish servicemen and women. Initiative to tackle animal disease Major new project to tackle infectious animal diseases. NHS 60th anniversary celebrations National and local events to mark 60 years of the National Health Service. Reducing the use of plastic bags Environment Secretary praises Marks and Spencer's approach. 'Sobering' costs of alcohol Alcohol misuse is costing Scotland £2.25 billion per year. Law 'loophole' to be changed Scottish Government to repeal the law which exempts spouses from giving evidence against their partner. Scots speak out on food Rural Affairs Secretary thanks contributors to the national discussion on food. Support for lifelong learning New £1.5 million fund to back development of international lifelong learning strategy. Church joins the Conversation Parliament Minister says Church of Scotland is 'one of main voices of Scottish society'.