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Fèisean nan Gàidheal A’ toirt ar dualchais do ar n-òigridh
Meeting of the Board of Directors
111 Academy Street, Inverness
Thursday 24 May 2012 @ 1.30pm
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Taigh a’ Mhill Port-Rìgh An t-Eilean Sgitheanach IV51 9BZ
Fòn 01478 613355 Facs 01478 613399 Post-d [email protected] www.feisean.org
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Meeting of the Board of Directors to be held at Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Offices, 111 Academy Street, Inverness from 1.30pm on Thursday 24 May 2012
Agenda
2.2012.01 PRELIMINARIES (a) Present (b) Apologies (c) Minutes of the previous meeting of the Fèisean nan Gàidheal Board For Approval (d) Matters arising (e) Unapproved Minutes for the latest meeting of the Executive Group For Noting
2.2012.02 DEVELOPMENT ISSUES (a) Progress in implementing Fèisean nan Gàidheal Programme of Work For Noting and Discussion (b) Blas Festival 2012: Programme to date For Noting (c) Sgoil Shamhraidh Dhràma: Update Verbal for Noting (d) Còig Latha Gaelic medium residential event: Update Verbal for Noting (e) Proposals for a Gaelic Arts in Education Service: Presentation For Discussion (f) Application by Fèis an Rubha for membership of Fèisean nan Gàidheal For Approval
2.2012.03 FINANCIAL ISSUES (a) Income and Expenditure 2012-13 For Noting and Discussion (b) Bank balances and up-to-date information For Noting (c) Grants to Fèisean 2012-13 For Noting (d) Management Accounts to 31 March 2012 For Noting and Discussion (e) Draft Highlands & Islands Enterprise agreement 2012-15 For Noting and Approval (f) Local Authority Funding: Update Verbal for Noting (g) Overdraft Facility with Clydesdale Bank Plc For Approval
2.2012.04 POLICY ISSUES (a) Fèisean nan Gàidheal Grants Scheme: Presentation For Noting and Discussion
2.2012.05 OPERATIONAL ISSUES (a) Staff Progress Reports For Noting and Discussion (b) AGM & Conference 2012: Board members’ ideas for the programme For Discussion and Approval
2.2012.06 OTHER (a) Confirmation of date of next meeting For Noting (b) Meeting of Fèisean nan Gàidheal Executive Group Papers e-mailed for information
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Fèisean nan Gàidheal Minutes of the meeting of the Board of Directors held in Fèisean nan Gaidheal’s Offices, Inverness on Thursday 23 February 2012 from 2.00 pm Agenda Item: 2.2012.01(c)
1.2012.01 PRELIMINARIES (a) Present Catriona MacIntyre (Chair), Margaret Cameron, Bernard Bell, Duncan MacQuarrie, Janet MacDonald, Peigi MacLennan, Calum Alex MacMillan (Attending), Anne Willoughby (Attending), Moreen Pringle (Attending), Dougie Beck (Attending – translation), Maria MacInnes (Attending – presentation);
(b) Apologies Arthur Cormack, Fiona Johnston, Norma Gunn, Uisdean Robertson, Elaine Spence, Agnes Rennie (CnES), Morag Anna MacLeod (Highland Council), Ann Marie Reid (HIE), Ian Smith (Creative Scotland)
Anne Willoughby read a message from Cllr Agnes Rennie advising that she was sorry she had been unable to attend the Board Meeting today. She is not standing for re-election as a Councillor so will no longer be the Comhairle nan Eilean Siar representative on our Board. She wished Fèisean nan Gàidheal well for the future.
Catriona welcomed Peigi MacLennan to her first Meeting of the Board.
Congratulations were offered to Calum Alex MacMillan following the birth of his son.
It was noted that Arthur Cormack had been signed off work for a fortnight. The Board Members wished him well for a speedy recovery.
(c) Minutes of the last meeting of Fèisean nan Gàidheal Minutes of the meeting held on 8 December 2011 were circulated and approved as a true record of the meeting, proposed by Duncan MacQuarrie and seconded by Bernard Bell.
(d) Matters Arising At the last meeting there had been some discussion about providing iPads for Board Members to use instead of Board Papers etc being issued in paper form.
Bernard Bell enquired about whether this was still planned.
Anne Willoughby advised that it was still hoped to provide the iPads but we were waiting until the end of the financial year to ensure that there was sufficient funds left in the budget to cover this outlay.
1.2012.02 DEVELOPMENT ISSUES (a) Progress in implementing Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Programme of Work A summary of progress to date in the implementation of Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Annual Programme had been circulated and was noted.
This programme was based on 2011-12 contracts with HIE, Creative Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig and local authorities. Work was progressing well in most areas.
Anne Willoughby spoke about the items which were showing up as Amber or Red:
Re ref. 1.3: Maintaining the number of young people participating in Fèisean and classes in the Highlands at 3,179 ~ this figure was based on the total from 2010/11. This year’s actual
2 total would be known by the end of March when all the information from Fèisean has been received.
Re ref 1.15: Deliver training to 30 Fèisean per year and at least 75 tutors and community Fèis Organisers ~ we expect to achieve this target but will not have accurate numbers until March.
Re ref. 1.19: Promotion and Marketing. It was noted that Fèis books are available for purchase via our online shop as well as by Fèisean. Our main buyer was Highlander Music. Comhairle nan Leabhraichean do purchase a few books but not many. Duncan MacQuarrie advised that he is due to attend their Board Meeting in the near future and will raise this with them as they would be a good avenue for book sales. We need to look at other ways/opportunities to sell them and also investigate other potential promotional material.
Re ref. 2.1: Increase the number of young people who will receive Gaelic tuition from a baseline of 2,384. Again we hope to achieve this but will not have definite figures until the end of March.
Re ref. 2.11: The proposal to undertake a review on function, appositeness and efficacy of Fèisean nan Gàidheal Board was a HIE target and was something that had to be initiated and carried out by them. It was unlikely that this was now going to happen.
Re Ref. 3.2: Potential for Youth Music Initiative contract work in other areas ~ We have had an enquiry from West Lothian Council regarding assisting them with a project to introduce more traditional music into their YMI activities. If this goes ahead it will help us meet this target.
The Board noted these matters and were encouraged that so many of the targets in the Programme were being met.
(b) Blas Festival 2012 A report by Arthur Cormack had been circulated bringing the Board up-to-date with the current plans for Blas 2012. In his absence, Calum Alex MacMillan spoke about this project. Details of the Blas events planned to date were also circulated. Additional events were provisionally planned but would only go ahead if additional funding was secured.
An application for £50k has been made to Creative Scotland and it hoped that we will hear the outcome of this application towards the end of March.
Donna Macrae was busy working on the programme, liaising with groups and working on the Education Programme.
Board Members noted the work to date.
(c) Drama Projects 2011-12: Update A report by Arthur Cormack giving an update on progress with our agreed programme of Gaelic drama work in schools was circulated along with a timetable for the current Meanbh Chuileag tour which is underway.
If any Board Member wishes to attend one of the MC events they should contact Dougie Beck or Calum Alex MacMillan who will make the necessary arrangements with the Schools concerned.
Calum Alex MacMillan gave an update on drama projects taking place including the MC tour, workshops by Angus MacLeod in Skye and Lochalsh schools and plans for Sgoil Shamhraidh 2012.
Dougie Beck has also been busy working with schools in Lochaber and Argyll doing workshops and assisting with play writing. The performances of the 11 plays will take place in Corran
3 Halls, Oban on 1 May and any Board Members wishing to attend would be very welcome. More information regarding this event would be circulated nearer the time.
Dougie Beck advised that as it is the 10th year of Meanbh Cuileag being part of Fèisean nan Gàidheal it is hoped to have some sort of anniversary performances later in the year – but the final format of this has still to be organised.
The Board Members thanked everyone associated with the drama projects for all their hard work.
(d) Gaelic Medium Residential Event: Update A report by Arthur Cormack updating Board Members on the Gaelic residential event had been circulated and Calum Alex MacMillan spoke about the project.
The residential event will take place from 9 – 13 April and will be based in Gearrannan, Carloway, Isle of Lewis. Information had gone out to High Schools at the start of the year and all the places had now been filled. A total of 16 pupils will take part (12 girls, 4 boys). They are mainly from 1st/2nd year with a couple of older pupils and come from all over the Highlands (including Tain, Dingwall, Inverness, Mallaig and Uist).
The participants will take part in various activities such as crofting, fishing, cooking, art, peat cutting, music and song. There will also be events such as a Cèilidh and a quiz night.
The Board members noted the progress with this project and were pleased with the interest shown in it by participants.
(e) Gaelic Song-writing Project: Update A report by Arthur Cormack updating members on progress with the Gaelic Song-writing Project being run jointly with Watercolour Music was circulated.
Calum Alex MacMillan advised that the closing date for places on this Project had been 17th February and four applications had been received.
The Board agreed that this was an exciting project and a great opportunity for those involved.
1.2012.03 FINANCIAL ISSUES (a) Income and Expenditure 2011-12 A report prepared by the Executive Manager, Anne Willoughby, had been circulated showing the income and expenditure budget to and from Fèisean nan Gàidheal to 31 March 2012, showing actual transactions to 31 January 2012.
The Board Members noted the report.
(b) Bank Balances and up-to-date information The current balances were: • Current Account: £4,356.83 • High Interest Account: £143,975.09 • Blas Account: £1,749.53
(c) Grants pledged to Fèisean for 2011-12 A list of grants pledged to Fèisean for 2011-12, prepared by Anne Willoughby, with amounts paid to 31 January 2012 had been circulated.
A number of grants have been paid out and all grant claims for 2011/12 have to be submitted to us before 31 March 2012.
We are going to look at the uptake of the Annualised Hours grants and re-distribute any funding not required.
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The Board Members noted the report.
(d) Management Accounts for the period to 31 December 2011 Management Accounts for the period to 31 December 2011 prepared by Mann Judd Gordon had been circulated and were noted.
(e) Budget 2012-13 A draft Income and Expenditure budget for 2012-13 prepared by Arthur Cormack and Anne Willoughby had been circulated and was approved by the Board.
Duncan MacQuarrie enquired as to whether all staff were in a pension scheme. Anne Willoughby advised that all staff were given the opportunity to join our scheme but is up to them whether they do so or not. New Government legislation due to come in in April makes it compulsory for everyone to be paying into a pension scheme.
(f) Grants to Fèisean 2012-13 A report prepared by Anne Willoughby outlining the proposed grants to Fèisean for 2012-13 had been circulated. It was noted that the Western Isles Council contribution had been reduced by 10% and the Argyll & Bute Council contribution has still to be confirmed.
Efforts were being made to keep grants at the same level as 2011/12 although in some cases classes grants had been reduced.
Once the offer letters have been issued Fèisean can then come back to Fèisean nan Gàidheal to discuss the level of grant and any concerns they may have regarding this.
Annualised Hours grants have been awarded to the Fèisean who use them and will be made available to as many Fèisean as possible.
It was agreed that Anne Willoughby would give a presentation at the next Board Meeting explaining how Fèisean grants are awarded, the procedure for claiming grants etc. This will give Board Members a better understanding of how the system works.
The Board Members approved the level of grants to Fèisean for 2012-13.
(g) Progress with Highlands & Islands Enterprise 2012-15 Agreement A report by Arthur Cormack updating Board Members on discussions with HIE about support from April 2012 onwards had been circulated. HIE were offering up to £480k (£170k in 2012- 13, £160k in 2013-14 and £150k in 2014-15).
We will need to look into raising funds from elsewhere to meet the cuts over the coming years.
The Board Members noted the information.
(h) Draft Agreement with Creative Scotland 2012-15 A report and draft contract with Creative Scotland prepared by Arthur Cormack had been circulated. The draft Contract has been submitted to Creative Scotland and once approved should be signed by our Chair. Payments will be made quarterly from April onwards.
The Board Members approved the draft contract and authorised the Chair to sign it on behalf of the Board once Creative Scotland have approved it.
The Board thanked Arthur for all his hard work in putting this document together.
1.2012.04 POLICY ISSUES (a) Annual Risk Management report
5 A report updating Board Members on the management of risk within Fèisean nan Gàidheal had been circulated. Anne Willoughby spoke about the risks and how they are identified and managed.
The Board Members agreed that they were satisfied that risks identified were being managed effectively.
1.2012.05 OPERATIONAL ISSUES (a) Presentation from Maria MacInnes, Development Officer Maria MacInnes the Lochaber Development Officer gave a presentation on her work with Fèisean in the Lochaber, Glasgow and Perth areas.
She is responsible for the following Fèisean: Fèis Eige, Fèis nan Garbh Chrìochan, Fèis Lochabair, Fèis Òigridh na Mara, Fèis Ghleann Albainn, Fèis Ghlaschu, Fèis Innis an Uillt and Fèis Lannraig a Tuath.
Fèis an t-Sratha have now folded but it is hoped that another Fèis will start up in the Perth area.
Fèis nan Deugairean which had been organised by Fèis Lochabair and had taken place in October had been a good success with 15 participants. As well as the usual instrument and groupwork classes they had done a lot of media work too.
A Family Fèis morning event had taken place recently in Ballachulish. The adults had been involved in Ùlpan, Sgioba-G attended to do some drama, games etc and there had been a nursery too. Although the numbers attending were low it had been enjoyed by all those present. It was hoped to organise a similar event in a different venue.
Maria was busy helping make plans for Fèis Alba and this year’s Cèilidh Trail.
Fèis Lochabair are looking into having quarterly Fèis Days which would give the children the opportunity to work regularly with different tutors.
Fèis Ghlaschu are looking into establishing a Teenage Fèis.
She has been working with Iomairt Ghàidhlig Loch Abar on various projects, giving out leaflets, assisting with Gaelic etc.
The possibility of a Fèis being established in the Aberfeldy area was also being investigated.
The Board Members thanked Maria for an interesting presentation which gave them a good insight into her work in the area.
(a) Staff Progress Reports Progress Reports from staff had been circulated and Board Members noted the content of these.
Arthur Cormack had also submitted one in respect of his role as development officer for Fèis Rois. The Board were delighted with the work going on between Fèis Rois and the children in Drummond School. Duncan MacQuarrie expressed concern about the lack of uptake from Gaelic students for the forthcoming Student Fèis. There could be many factors affecting this.
Peigi MacLennan spoke about the work Jenna was doing in conjunction with the Barra local Mod Committee and felt that there were opportunities in other areas for the local Mod Committees and Fèisean nan Gàidheal to work together. Calum Alex MacMillan advised that he is looking into this further.
The Board Members acknowledged and praised staff for all their work.
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(c) Venue for AGM & Conference 2012 This year’s AGM and Conference would take place on 21/22 September 2012. An approach had been made to the West End Hotel in Fort William who had indicated that they were able to take our booking and had given a very reasonable quote for the accommodation, meeting rooms, dinner etc.
The Board Members agreed that the AGM & Conference would take place in the West End Hotel, Fort William.
1.2012.06 OTHER (a) Confirmation of Date of next meeting and future meetings It was agreed that the next meeting would take place on 24 May in our Inverness Office.
Janet MacDonald advised that she would be unable to attend in person but would join the meeting via conference call. Any other Board Members who also wished to join in over the phone should let us know.
There being no further items of business the Chair closed the meeting with thanks to Maria MacInnes for her presentation and Dougie Beck for his translation services.
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Fèisean nan Gàidheal Unapproved Minutes of the meeting of the Executive Group held on Thursday 10 May 2012 from 10.00 am via telephone conference Agenda Item: 2.2012.01(e)
EX1.2012.01 PRELIMINARIES (a) Present Catriona MacIntyre (Fèis Lochabair, Chair), Maggie Cameron (Fèis an Earraich, Vice-Chair), Fiona Johnston (Fèis Fhoirt, Secretary/Treasurer), Arthur Cormack (Fèisean nan Gàidheal Chief Executive), Anne Willoughby (Fèisean nan Gàidheal Executive Manager), Moreen Pringle (Fèisean nan Gàidheal Business Officer).
(b) Apologies Calum Alex MacMillan (Fèisean nan Gàidheal Development Manager), Morag Anna MacLeod (Highland Council), Ann Marie Reid (HIE).
(c) Minutes of previous Executive Group meeting for approval Minutes of the meeting held on 22 November 2011 had been circulated and were approved.
(d) Matters arising There were no matters arising not already on the Agenda.
EX1.2012.02 PROGRAMME UPDATES (a) Fèisean (verbal –Arthur) The Easter Fèisean had all taken place and been well attended with numbers being up for most of them. Fèis an Earraich had offered Ùlpan courses for some of their tutors which had been successful. They had also offered a media course for teenagers which had been enjoyed by those taking part.
The offer letters for 2012-13 grants had been issued. Most had now been returned although a few were outstanding and were being chased up. A couple of Fèisean had queries about the level of grant they had been awarded and this was being dealt with.
The new Fèis Dates leaflet had now been finalised and would be sent to the printers later in the week.
(b) Blas Festival 2012 (verbal – Arthur) Plans for Blas 2012 were progressing well. Unfortunately our application for funding to the Year of Creative Scotland had been unsuccessful. The Blas programme of events had been prepared based on the budget currently available. Additional sponsorship funding was being investigated. Additional events would be added to the programme if monies become available.
The Blas launch will take place in Eden Court on 21 June (invites will be issued nearer the time).
Tickets for Blas events are currently on sale via the Blas Website and the official printed brochure will be available by the time of the Launch.
A further update on Blas will be brought before the Board at the Meeting on 24 May.
(c) YMI (verbal – Arthur) Arthur advised that YMI had been within budget for 2011-12 and was going well.
The Highland Council DVD of YMI work was now finished and had been launched in mid-March. Arthur will have a copy for Board Members at the meeting on 24 May.
West Lothian Council have approached Fèisean nan Gàidheal asking if we would assist them in expanding the Traditional Music Tuition in their area. Arthur is going to be meeting with them to discuss this proposal further. The possibility of extending YMI into the Western Isles was also being investigated.
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(d) Còig Latha Residential Event (verbal –Arthur) The residential event had taken place from 9 – 13 April in Gearrannan, Carloway, Isle of Lewis. There had been 16 participants who had been involved in music and song tuition as well as activities such as crofting, fishing, cooking, art and peat cutting.
The participants had thoroughly enjoyed the week and had got a lot from it in terms of tuition and enhancing their language skills etc.
Calum Alex had worked very hard to put this week together and thanks went out to him. He had also received a tremendous amount of support from the local community.
The event had received good media coverage and Jenny Forbes who had been helping out over the week had filmed various parts and it was hoped to make these available via our Website and You Tube.
The funding is currently in place to hold another similar event, probably at the same time next year. This will probably take place in the same venue as it works well, however the potential is there to hold similar events in different areas and these would be looked at afresh.
(e) Gaelic Drama (verbal –Arthur) The work with schools, after-school clubs and Stòrlann is all going well.
The Drama Festival had taken place recently in Oban. 115 pupils from 7 schools had been involved and 10 plays had been performed.
Sgoil Shamhraidh Dhràma 2012 will take place in Portree in July. There are 12 people registered already and the closing date is 18 May. The final performance will again take place in Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in conjunction with the Fèis Alba Cèilidh Trailers.
(f) Cèilidh Trails (verbal – Arthur) The auditions for this year’s Cèilidh Trail groups had all taken place. Nicola Simpson is now trying to firm up all the performance dates so that the Ceilidh Trails leaflet can be produced.
There have been problems with LEADER funding being very slow to pay out. All the claims are up-to-date we are just waiting for the funding to come in. This is the final year of the LEADER funding so we will have to investigate alternative funding for the future.
Fèis Fhoirt were successful in getting two years of Creative Scotland funding to run a Cèilidh Trail in their area. Fiona Johnston spoke about the possibilities of taking their cèilidh trailers to Aberdeen for a performance, workshop etc. She was going to discuss the proposals with Calum Alex.
(g) Gaelic Song-writing project (verbal – Arthur) The Gaelic song-writing project had recently taken place in conjunction with Watercolour Music. Four participants had been involved, spending one weekend song-writing and another weekend recording the songs. Copies of the songs had not yet been received but are due soon. It is hoped to put clips up on our Website and You Tube.
Arthur advised that he and Calum Alex are also looking into another potential project to enable young people to collect and record traditional songs. A grant application would be made to the Heritage Lottery Fund.
EX1.2012.03 FINANCIAL ISSUES (a) Income and Expenditure 2011-12 (circulated - Anne) A report on Income and Expenditure for 2011-12 had been circulated. Anne advised that everything was mostly on budget and that some funding was still due in from other Agencies. Andy Cumming is currently working on the Management Accounts and these should be ready shortly and will be available at the forthcoming Board meeting.
9 (b) Income and Expenditure 2012-13 (verbal - Anne) A written report had not been circulated as there had not been much expenditure in April but this would be available at the forthcoming Board meeting.
Core funding from Creative Scotland and Bòrd na Gàidhlig had been received and the first payment from Highland Council is due shortly.
(c) Bank Balances and up to date information (verbal - Anne) The current bank balances were given as follows: • £5,267.58 in the Current account • £165,993.37 in the High Interest account • £4,251.08 in the Blas account
(d) Grants to Fèisean 2012-13 (circulated - Anne) A report showing the grants awarded to Fèisean (and those paid out to date) had been circulated. As it is the start of a new financial year there has not been much claimed to date.
Some Fèisean have still to return their letters of offers and until such time as these are received we will be unable to pay them any grant monies.
An updated copy of the report will be brought before the Board later in the month.
(e) Funding Overview 2012-13 (verbal – Arthur) Arthur gave an overview of the financial funding for the current year. The HIE and HC grants had remained the same. There was a 10% cut in the CnES funding and the Argyll & Bute Council contribution had yet to be finalised. A meeting to discuss a Service Level Agreement with them is due to take place on 21 May.
Calum Alex and Iona are currently applying to Colmcille for funding towards the Cuairt nam Bàrd project. This forms an annual tour of poets and musicians. A group from Scotland had recently visited Ireland for their leg of the tour and it was now our turn to organise the Scottish leg. It is intended to hold this during Blas week so that the events can be included in the Blas programme. This project will also tie in with Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s international Working criteria.
Fèisean nan Gàidheal need to find a further £13,000 over the year but Arthur is confident this can be achieved. We will need to look into future fundraising over the coming years as our funding from other agencies may be reducing.
EX1.2012.04 STAFFING ISSUES (verbal – Arthur) All staff appraisals had now taken place – except for Anne’s which Arthur would be doing shortly. Arthur would need to make arrangements for his own appraisal to be done too.
Jenna Morrison has advised that she is expecting a baby in November – congratulations to her & her husband Benji.
Angus MacLeod got married recently in Inverness – best wishes were sent to him and his new wife Angela.
EX1.2012.05 DEVELOPMENT ISSUES (a) Draft Agreement with HIE 2012-15 (circulated - Arthur) A copy of the Draft Agreement had been circulated. Arthur and Anne had met with Ann Marie Reid of HIE to go over the agreement and discussed some amendments to it. Ann Marie had been happy with the proposed amendments and was going to discuss them further with HIE’s legal team. If the revised agreement is received in time it can be discussed and, hopefully, signed off at our Board Meeting later in the month.
(b) Annual Conference 2012 (verbal – Anne) Anne advised that our Annual Conference/AGM will take place in the West End Hotel, Fort William on 21/22
10 September 2012
(c) Board Membership (verbal –Arthur) It was noted that Catriona MacIntyre, Maggie Cameron and Fiona Johnston, among others, are due to stand down from the Fèisean nan Gàidheal Board in September. Arthur is going to look into the proposals for Board Membership to ensure that we have a good strong Board in place with suitable skills to oversee the organisation. It is not intended to change the current procedure of electing Board Members from the Fèisean as this ensures that it is the Fèisean that govern the organisation.
EX1.2012.06 BOARD MEETING (a) Agenda items for forthcoming Board meeting As well as the usual Agenda items there would be: • HIE Agreement • A presentation by Anne Willoughby on the Grants Scheme • Discussion on the proposed Programme for the AGM/Conference • A presentation on our proposed Arts & Education Service
EX1.2012.07 GENERAL (a) AOCB (verbal) No other items of business were raised.
(b) Date and venue of next meeting The next Executive Group Meeting will be held by phone conference on Wednesday 5 September at 10.00 am.
11 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Progress in implementing Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Programme of Work Agenda Item: 2.2012.02(a)
Reason for paper To update members on progress with Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Programme of Work to the end of 2011-12.
Background Following is a summary of progress to date in the delivery of the performance indicators - or outputs - set out in Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s (FnG) Development Plan and in agreements with our four main funders – Creative Scotland (CS), Highland Council (HC), Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE), Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (CnES), Argyll & Bute Council (A&BC) and Bòrd na Gàidhlig (BnG).
R (Red) = Not presently on track, and measures to restore progress not yet in place. Danger that targets may be missed. A (Amber) = Not presently on target, but with measures in place to restore progress G (Green) = On target
Ref Measure in Development Plan Responsible Performance Indicators/Outputs Progress Status 1 SERVICE DELIVERY 1.1 Services All Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual The work of the whole organisation is geared towards G Fèisean, widening their range of activities and achieving this. We will be supporting 45 Fèisean during establishing best working practice. (CS) 2011-12 and, although we have a smaller team than in Continue to operate as an organisations striving for the past, will ensure that high standards of delivery are excellence in delivery of services and projects, with sound maintained. Last year we overhauled all our policies to governance and general working practices. (CS) ensure good governance and working practices and these will remain under review. Plan to apply efficiencies of 3% (£3,750) of Bòrd na A plan was submitted to Bòrd na Gàidhlig on how we G Gàidhlig funding from within running costs of the expected to achieve this. In addition to savings made organisation towards new projects that will contribute on running costs (insurance, telephone, staff travel), towards increasing numbers of Gaelic speakers (BnG) which was reapplied to our programme, the value of the work we did with local Iomairtean Gàidhlig has been worked out to be at least £50k. 1.2 Staff CEO/ Retain at least 15 FTEs based within the HIE area (HIE) We currently have 13 people on staff with an FTE of G Board 11.2. However, with tutors and contractors, that figure will be much higher and will exceed 15 FTEs. £23,393 to be used to support Fèis Development Officers The remainder of Highland Council funding, after grants and the general running costs of Fèisean nan Gàidheal. are paid to Fèisean, is utilised towards our running costs (HC) including Development Officer posts.
12 Development At least two people to be supported through the Work Only one person was made available to us through the G Manager Placement/Graduate Placement schemes run by CnaG. summer Work Placement Scheme. We were unable to (BnG) support someone through the Graduate Placement Scheme but we had a student on a 3-week placement in February. CEO/ Prepare a pay policy for the organisation for 2011-12 and Fèisean nan Gàidheal operates within the pay policy for G Executive beyond that is in line with the Scottish Government’s Pay the public sector and is, therefore, closely aligned to the Manager Policy. (BnG) Scottish Government’s Pay Policy. 1.3 Grants Scheme for Fèisean CEO/ Continue to run a Grants Scheme for Fèisean allowing Grants scheme in place and grants of £221k pledged for G Executive investment in a variety of local activities (CS) 2011-12. Grants were paid out as per agreements. Manager/ Support offered to at least 40 Fèisean from our Grants Grants offered to 45 Fèisean for 2011-12. Business Officer Scheme and through practical help. (BnG) Support at least 30 Highlands and Islands Fèisean each year Grants offered to 37 Fèisean in the HIE area, 23 of G (HIE) which are in HIE Fragile Areas. Development Continue to invest in new developments through our Fèis Applications have been received for the Development G Manager Development Fund (CS) Fund. Support three new and innovative project per year through To date we have supported several projects with Fèis a Fèis development fund (HIE) Arainn, Fèis Fhoirt, Fèis Spè and Fèis Rois. Development Support 19 Fèisean in Highland Council area (HC) Grants offered to 21 Fèisean in the Highland Council G Manager/ Ensure that £24k is divided between 19 Fèisean on a area totalling £119,191, of which the local authority Development formula basis (HC) portion represents £25,634. Officers Provide a high quality music tuition programme for young We expect that the Fèisean will offer a high quality G people who wish to participate in Fèisean (HC) experience and feedback will be sought to confirm this. Maintaining the number of young people participating in 3,408 took part in Highland Fèis events in 2011-12. G Fèisean and classes in the Highlands at 3,179 (HC) Grant aid Fèisean in Comhairle nan Eilean Siar area Grants offered to 6 Fèisean in the Comhairle nan Eilean G (CNES) Siar area. Grant aid Fèisean in Argyll & Bute Council area (A&BC) Grants offered to 7 Fèisean in the Argyll & Bute Council G area. 1.4 Supporting volunteers Development Continue with excellent support mechanisms for Each member of the Development Team has been G Officers individual Fèisean through the development of our designated as Lead Officer for a number of Fèisean. system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to They need to continually work hard to ensure this local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services relationship works effectively. (CS) Training & Policies are made as easy as possible for volunteers to All policies were reviewed in 2009-10 and are available G Policy Officer/ deliver as downloads from our website in Gaelic and English. Development They remain under review and a Volunteering Policy was Officers agreed by the Board of Directors in 2011. Risk Register in place, monitored by the Executive Group with an annual report to the full Board in February 2012. Executive Continuation of Annualised Hours scheme Annualised hours offered for 2011-12 as part of overall G Manager/ grant offer, with those Fèisean that have made best use Development of them in the past having been given priority. Officers/ Development Team will continue to work closely with Training & workers employed under this scheme and participation Policy Officer in the annual Fèis Trèanaidh is a condition of funding.
13 Development Officer to be retained in Western Isles Jenna Cumming employed full-time with part funding G (CnES) from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. Development Officer to be retained in Argyll & Bute Christine MacIntyre employed full-time with part funding G Council area (A&BC) from Argyll & Bute Council. 1.5 Annual Conference Executive Hold an Annual Conference (CS) 2011 Conference was held in Dunblane Hydro on 23 and G Manager/ 24 September with around 80 delegates and Alasdair Business Allan MSP, Minister for Learning and Skills, as Guest Officer/ Speaker. Training Officer 1.6 Insurance Executive Adequate insurance cover in place for Fèisean nan Policies reviewed and renewed in February 2011 with G Manager Gàidheal, its staff and all Fèis activities. cover adjusted as appropriate. 1.7 Musical instrument Bank Business Officer Regular lending of instruments to Fèisean. Ongoing and well used by Fèisean with most G instruments out most of the year. 1.8 Disclosure checking Collator/ All tutors and volunteers involved in Fèisean must go Ongoing work undertaken by Sandy Gray as Disclosures G Executive through an enhanced Disclosure check. continue to be renewed, under the new PVG scheme, on Manager/ an ongoing basis as 3 years expire. Business Officer All Fèisean must submit a list of tutors before grant is released, which is cross-referenced to ensure they have a current Disclosure. A new procedure is being put in place from April 2012 to simplify this and to help monitor implementation of our Gaelic Policy. Continue to ensure good practice in relation to Child Policy updated and monitored on an ongoing basis and G Protection within the new system introduced by we are implementing changes to the system to comply Disclosure Scotland. (CS) with the PVG scheme. 1.9 Maintenance of a Fèis Tutors database Business Officer Up to date data available at all times. Fèisean nan Gaidheal database continues to be regularly G updated. 1.10 Developing, distributing and selling publications Business Officer Continue to maximise income from sales of publications We are currently working on selling as many as possible G through Fèisean, shops etc. Online shop is set up on the new website http://www.feisean.org/en/shop/. 1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and Business Faileas produced on a regular basis, now only G other information Officer/ distributed electronically in order to save money. All Staff Information of all kinds relating to Fèisean distributed on a regular basis – funding opportunities, VAN news, SCVO news, job opportunities, events etc. 1.12 Support for new Fèisean Development Create 2 new Fèisean in HIE Fragile Areas (HIE) An application has been accepted from Fèis an Iar G Manager Support the establishment of new Fèisean where Thuath and Fèis Thròdairnis has been re-established, communities request assistance and funding allows (CS) both of which are in Fragile Areas. 1.13 Supporting the development of Fèisean, or Executive Continue to support individual Fèis projects such as Fèis Continuing to support Lochaber Fèisean through the G collectives of Fèisean, wishing to become more Manager/ Bharraigh and Feis Spè expansion activities (CS) joint Steering Group as well as Fèis Spè and Fèis independent Development Bharraigh with payroll and other services. Working to Manager/ secure funding for Fèis Spè to ensure programmes Development continues from May 2012. Officers 1.14 Inter-Fèis activities Development Funding for inter-Fèis activities is integrated within our G Manager/ Development Fund. Fèis Rois worked with Fèis Eilean Development an Fhraoich on workshops during HebCelt Festival. A
14 Officers number of Fèisean worked together at Fèis Alba and on the Cèilidh Trails. 1.15 Annual Training Programme Training & Deliver training to 30 Fèisean per year and at least 75 tutors Fèis Trèanaidh in March 2012 attracted 44 fèis G Policy Officer/ and community Fèis organisers (HIE) organisers representing 98 training sessions. Level I & Development II courses, at SMO in February 2012 attracted 23 Manager participants. Level III Tutor Training had 3 participants. We have sponsored 3 tutors for Ùlpan tutoring courses. Beginners’ Gaelic workshops for tutors in various locations attracted 16 tutors. Staff training is ongoing as required. Joint training with G Fèis Rois staff took place over two days in August and another two days in October. In-house induction is available for any new staff and new Board members were offered an induction session at their first meeting in December 2011. Moreen Pringle is undertaking Ùlpan training when it is being offered and had reached Unit 72. 1.16 Networking CEO/ Expand partnership opportunities with other arts and We will continue to be members and contribute to the G Development Gaelic organisations, as well as public bodies, and development of the Traditional Music Forum. We have Manager continue to work with existing forums, including the had initial discussions with Creative Scotland about the Scottish Traditional Music Forum. (CS) delivery of elements of the Report to the Scottish Government on Traditional Arts but there has been little progress to date. We supported the ATLAS arts project in Skye with office facilities. We are helping the Skye Gaelic Initiative in several ways and the local Comann nam Pàrant group with office services. Tobar an Dualchais and Stòrlann make use our offices in Inverness and staff are involved in supporting Gaelic Initiatives in their own localities. Work in partnership with the Gaelic Arts Strategy Group We will continue to take part, as required, in the Gaelic and the Gaelic Arts Officer to review and implement the Arts Strategy Group, and attend meetings of the Gaelic Gaelic Arts Strategy. Organisations held by Bòrd na Gàidhlig. Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s CEO is involved in occasional input to SMO’s Gaelic & Traditional Music Course, as was our Training and Policy Officer during one term. The Western Isles Development Officer has been attending meetings of the Western Isles Gaelic Arts Forum. All staff Working with other Gaelic organisations, local authorities, We have spent around 3,000 hours during 2011-12 G community representatives and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to supporting Iomairtean in areas where we have staff, as expand Iomairtean Gàidhlig (Gaelic Initiatives) and well as the Fèisean within those areas. We have been deliver the main aims of Ginealach Ùr na Gàidhlig (BnG) actively involved in drawing up and implementing the plans for the Iomairtean in Skye, Inverness, Lochaber and Islay. We are running a regular Cofaidh is Còmhradh session in our Portree office every Tuesday and the Inverness office intends to establish something similar. We have worked with Portree High School in
15 producing magazines for them and we held a day-long mini-Fèis for all S1 Gaelic and Gàidhlig pupils in July 2011. 1.17 Advocacy All staff led by In partnership with Creative Scotland, Highlands and A lot of time is spent on advocacy and this will probably G CEO Islands Enterprise and Bòrd na Gàidhlig, FnG will continue increase in the current economic climate. We regularly to play a key role in the continuing development of submit evidence to consultations that have an effect on traditional music and Gaelic arts in Scotland. (CS) our work, or where we can influence policy. 1.18 International Links CEO/ Raise the profile of the Fèis movement in international We have ongoing links with Celtic Colours in Cape G Development work like the Celtic Neighbours project with partners in Breton through the Blas Festival and with Ireland Manager/ Wales and Ireland. (CS) through Fèis exchanges and Cèilidh Trails. We will also Training & continue to be involved in the Celtic Neighbours project, Policy Officer the singing group from which will be touring in Wales and London in February. Arthur Cormack gave a presentation on the Fèisean to a conference in Donegal run by the Network for the Promotion of Language Diversity on involving young people in the arts in minority language situations. We are working with Conradh na Gaelige to organise the Bards’ Tour this year. 1.19 Promotion and Marketing CEO/ Increase media coverage of the Fèis movement through at We achieve a high level of coverage in the press, and G Business Officer least twelve instances of coverage in local/regional media, cuttings are collected regularly and archived. We three instances of national coverage, and one instance of endeavour to create more coverage around appropriate United Kingdom-wide coverage per year (HIE) activities such as Blas, Cèilidh Trails and the Gaelic Drama Summer School. Investigate greater partnerships with the commercial Potential sponsors are always invited to Blas events with G sector building on the success of sponsorship having a view to them coming on board. We are in talks with been secured for Blas, but also looking at the potential both Cal Mac and RBS about sponsorship for Blas 2012. for increased sales of products of the Fèisean. (CS) Fèis products are available through our online shop at A www.feisean.org but there is potential for greater sales. Ensure that the Highland Council is acknowledged in all The Highland Council logo, along with those of Creative G publicity materials with the inclusion of the Highland Scotland, HIE and Bòrd na Gàidhlig, appears on Council logo on fliers, posters, banners, press releases, everything we produce. This will continue. website and all relevant e-mail footers. (HC) Ensure all press notices and events are sent on to We regularly send all news releases to the mygaelic G mygaelic.com and Bòrd na Gàidhlig (BnG) team and to Bòrd na Gàidhlig. 1.20 Website and ICT Business New site now live at www.feisean.org along with G Officer/ www.blas-festival.com and www.feisceilidhtrails.org. All Staff as Main Fèisean nan Gàidheal site has been redesigned and appropriate taken away from Sitekit, saving licence fees and making it much more user friendly. A new section has been added to encourage Gaelic learning and App is being developed. 2 NEW DEVELOPMENTS 2.1 Prepare a Gaelic Language Policy for Fèisean Development Develop and increase access to the Gaelic language and Gaelic plans and annual updates continue to be G nan Gàidheal, which will be adopted by Manager/ culture through the implementation of a revised and submitted to Fèisean nan Gàidheal and discussion on members of the organisation Development strengthened Gaelic Language Policy (CS) Gaelic use formed part of the annual review meetings
16 Officers with all Fèisean. There was a session at the Annual Conference on increasing Gaelic use at Fèisean and the Fèisean have been encouraged and supported to submit plans that can be delivered by them individually. Ensure Gaelic is an integral part of all Fèisean, in line with A new Gaelic Policy has been approved and has been G Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy. (HC) issued to all Fèisean, along with guidance. Development Officers must now ensure that it is being implemented. Maximum support will be given to Fèisean by our Gaelic language team to help increase Gaelic usage. Increase the number of young people who will receive 2,556 of participants attending Highland Fèisean G Gaelic tuition from a baseline of 2,384 (HC) received Gaelic tuition. 2.2 Continue to support a Gaelic Language Development Continue to implement Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Ensuring that all Fèisean use fully bilingual material, and G Development Team Manager/ Policy through services offered to all the Fèisean through have made this a specific condition of grant. This was Development its staff and special projects as appropriate. discussed specifically with each Fèis at review meetings. Officers Use of Gaelic in Fèis activities must be prioritised. Provide support for Fèisean with Gaelic language Our Sgioba-G continues to assist Fèisean with Gaelic activities utilising our G-Team. (CS) Policy implementation, and with programmes of work tailored to individual needs, where requested, all geared towards basic Gaelic acquisition and greater use. 2.3 Develop mechanisms for the delivery of our Development Regular review of progress with implementation of Gaelic A survey of tutors was carried out to gain baseline G Gaelic Language Policy within Fèisean nan Manager/ Policy. (BnG) information on current Gaelic ability against which to Gàidheal Development measure success in its implementation. A separate Officers/ Action Plan was agreed by the Board in May and this is Training & being implemented in line with an agreed timetable. A Policy Officer/ variety of Gaelic language training options have been Drama Officer offered to Fèis tutors with two-day classes in Glasgow, Inverness and Fort William. 2.4 Develop wholly Gaelic-medium Fèisean and CEO/ An increasing number of GM Fèisean and activities for 6 Fèisean now GM and GM tuition being further G Gaelic-medium tuition at existing and new Development parents to work with their children through the medium developed within Fèisean that are not wholly GM. An Fèisean Manager/ of Gaelic. increase in Gaelic speaking tutors should facilitate an Development increase in Gaelic use. Officers Establish family-based Fèis activities to strengthen the Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich again had parental Gaelic classes G use of Gaelic (CS) during the Fèis while youngsters took part in Fèis activities, but more work needs to be done on developing this type of Fèis event or other events. Development Ensure commitment to Gaelic in new Fèisean. No new Fèisean are admitted for membership without a G Manager/ clear demonstration of Gaelic commitment. Board FnG Board is now required to approve new members to ensure Gaelic commitment is in place. 2.5 Development of Gaelic Drama Drama Officers/ Continue development of Gaelic drama activities including A separate plan for Gaelic drama developments during G Development a Gaelic Drama Summer School and, if funding allows, 2011-12 was considered by the Board in May and is Manager/ touring by the Meanbh-Chuileag theatre-in-education being implemented in line with an agreed timetable. CEO group (CS) This will include two Meanbh-chuileag tours, a Six weeks of schools touring to be carried out by pantomime, GLPS work in some Highland schools and Meanbh-Chuileag. (BnG) drama skills workshops on a regular basis. At least 80 Gaelic drama workshops to be supported
17 (BnG) Continue to run a series of Gaelic drama Fèisean (CS) Stage an annual Fèis Drama Summer School and work Sgoil Shamhraidh 2011 took place in Portree, with the G towards an agreement with MG Alba for the further final performance at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig along with professional development of ‘graduates’ (HIE) Cèilidh Trail participants. Information on the 2012 events has already been circulated to secondary schools. At least 20 Gaelic-speaking participants to take part in There were 24 participants and 115 in the audience for Sgoil Shamhraidh Dhràma 2011. (BnG) the final event. 2.6 Continuing support for Fèis Cèilidh Trails Senior and In partnership with Fèisean, and with investment from Five Cèilidh Trails were supported during summer 2011 G other LEADER, continue to support a network of Cèilidh Trails and they played at 100 events. Development (CS) Officers Senior Expand and strengthen the Fèis Cèilidh Trails initiative, Programming and publicity for 2011 Cèilidh Trails was a G Development including coordinating and promoting the initiative significant improvement on previous years. There was a Officer nationally and internationally as a cultural tourism joint marketing leaflet that was widely distributed as product (HIE) well as adverts in local newspapers. Posters were professionally designed also. Work with others to produce a Dance Instruction DVD Senior Development Officer has applied for funding for G covering cèilidh dances that will be used at Fèisean, this project. Cèilidh Trails and in other situations (CS) 2.7 Encourage local Fèisean to archive material Training & Coordinate at least six local cultural heritage projects led by An initial meeting was held between Fèis Bharraigh, G which could be utilised in teaching situations in Policy Officer Fèisean participants in local areas, creating freely available Fèisean nan Gàidheal and Cobhar Bharraigh to begin a their area localised online resources (HIE) joint heritage project but there have been problems Continue to engage with local Fèisean in collecting and trying to sustain a committee. Other opportunities will archiving local materials and making them available on be limited in 2011-12. We are working on a traditional the internet. (CS) Gaelic singing project for 2012 and will be submitting funding bids shortly. 2.8 Gaelic Arts Strategic Development CEO/ Continue to have an active role in delivering the National We will continue to participate fully in discussions and G Training & Gaelic Arts Strategy and supporting the work of the joint assist, where we can, in implementing the strategy and Policy Officer CS/BnG Gaelic Arts Officer (CS) in developing a new one. A large part of our CEO/ Work with the officers of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Creative programme delivers measures within the current Development Scotland to deliver the Gaelic Arts Strategy through the strategy and those outlined in the draft National Gaelic Manager day-to-day work of Fèisean nan Gàidheal. (BnG) Language Plan 2012. 2.9 Traditional Music Forum CEO/ Develop training provision and professional development, We envisage that this will be achieved during 2011-12 G Training & open to everyone involved in promoting, organising and through Fèis Alba, Blas, our Drama Summer School, our Policy Officer/ participating in Fèisean, and to other organisations Fèis Trèanaidh and Tutor training events. Development involved in traditional music development and delivery Manager (CS) 2.10 Gaelic song writing initiative CEO/ Produce, market and sell a CD of traditional music and Song writing was part of the Fèis Alba training for G Development Gaelic song produced through a Fèis song-writing initiative Cèilidh Trails and we ran a joint project in February and Manager (HIE) March with Stòras Watercolour to offer additional Further work in supporting and developing new song opportunities, including recording, to several teenagers writing in Gaelic, building on achievements in 2010. (CS) with a keen interest. 2.11 Board Development CEO/ Undertake a review on function, appositeness and efficacy Not initiated by HIE as planned. R Board with HIE of Fèisean nan Gàidheal board, by 31 December 2010 (HIE) financial
18 support
2.12 Research CEO/ Produce research on the creation of a Fèis ‘cultural hub’ Support has been offered to Ceòlas for a feasibility study G Executive providing social, performance and teaching spaces, to establish a cultural hub in South Uist, with the proviso Manager exploiting distance learning technology and links to that this will benefit the Uist Fèisean also. The final creative industries, within a fragile Gaelic community report has not been submitted to us as yet. (HIE) 2.13 Teenage provision within the Fèis movement Development Continue to support activities for teenagers A teenage Fèis took place in October 2011 in Lochaber. G Manager/ Numbers were quite small but it is a foundation on Development which to build should the Lochaber Fèisean wish to. Officers Cèilidh Trails and Blas involved teenagers. Teenagers G were involved in the Sgoil Shamhraidh and also in the mini-Fèis we organised at Portree High School. Continued support for Fèis Rois nan Deugairean, Fèis an G Earraich, Fèis Spè, Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich and other Fèisean who make specific teenage provision. Run a Gaelic medium teenage Fèis during the year (CS) A residential event for Gaelic-speaking teenagers- Còig G Latha - incorporating Fèis activities, was organised for Easter 2012 at The Gearrannan in Lewis. Demand has been high and the required number of teenagers reached. 3 PARTNERSHIPS AND CONTRACTS 3.1 Youth Music Initiative contract in Highland CEO/ Continue to develop the work of the Fèisean within the YMI in Highland is continuing during school year 2011- G YMI formal education sector, in partnership with YMI, in 12. Coordinator/ Highland and other local authorities as opportunities arise Rae MacEachern will continue to look after day-to-day Business Officer (CS) organisational issues for FnG. A DVD has been produced of all YMI work in Highland, approximately half of which features the traditional music work delivered by the Fèisean. This was launched at Highland Council’s ECS Committee on 8 March. 3.2 Potential for Youth Music Initiative contract CEO We had an enquiry from West Lothian Council looking G work in other areas for us to collaborate on a project to allow them to introduce more traditional music into their YMI activities from school year 2012-13. We will be discussing similar work with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Argyll & Bute Council. 3.3 Gaelic Language work in schools Drama Officer/ Support at least 50 events in schools (in Gaelic in Gaelic Meanbh-Chuileag continues to work in schools and we G CEO schools and bilingually in other schools) as part of Blas would like to draw together all the different elements of 2011, with at least 5,000 school pupils participating. work in schools that we do, and could do, and begin to (BnG) market these as a Gaelic Arts in Education Service. As part of Blas 2011 there was a comprehensive education programme running in a number of schools alongside the main festival events.
19 3.4 Other formal educational work CEO/ A proposal has been drawn up and costed for Gaelic G Training & language teaching, based on the YMI model, utilising Policy Officer GLPS resources. Our Drama Officers are working in a number of schools where Gaelic is not taught in order to pass on language skills and encouragement in Gaelic. There is scope to do more work in schools in areas G where there are Iomairtean Gàidhlig established and there may be further opportunities in the future when ‘Studying Scotland’ is launched by the Scottish Government. 3.5 Contract earnings CEO/ Ensure that trading income constitutes at least 25% of This is the case at present but will be kept under review. G Executive income FnG total before 31 July 2012 (HIE) In early 2012, we delivered a contract for Stòrlann with Manager a Meanbh-chuileag tour of schools. 3.6 Showcasing opportunities CEO/ Raise the profile of the Fèis movement through dedicated There were special events at Blas this year celebrating G Development showcase events, and in other opportunities as they 25 years of Fèis Rois and 21 years of Fèis Spè as well as Manager/ arise. (CS) a joint Cèilidh Trail event with all the groups together at Project Staff the Camanachd Cup Final. Fèis Rois had another anniversary event in November at Eden Court and their group also played at the Youth Prom in the Royal Albert Hall in London. Deliver at least three high-profile national showcase events - Discussions have been had with the Highland Council 2 Scottish, 1 United Kingdom-wide (HIE) about a singing project that will take place as the Olympic Torch moves through the Highlands which we have been asked to organise on their behalf. 3.7 Strategic Developments CEO Take part fully in discussions with Creative Scotland on the CEO has already attended one meeting with Creative G development of a National Youth Arts Strategy and play our Scotland to discuss the National Youth Arts Strategy and part in delivering the recommendations of the Traditional the CEO and Development Manager attended a further Arts Working Group Report (CS) meeting in Inverness in February. We discussed the Traditional Arts Report with Creative Scotland in May and have offered to deliver certain elements. 3.8 Development of Blas – Celebrating the CEO/ Subject to funding, continue to run the Blas Festival (CS) The festival took place in 2011 due to generous G Highlands Development additional support from Creative Scotland and funding Manager from Scotland’s Islands which, along with the reduced grant from The Highland Council, made the festival viable. Support offered to Blas to ensure that all information is As usual, Gaelic was used as extensively as possible. G available bilingually, that the website is bilingual and that We introduced our Gaelic Awareness Initiative at Blas each concert is presented bilingually with a Gaelic- and Gaelic writers took part in some events through a speaking fear/bean an taighe at each event. (BnG) tie-up with Comhairle nan Leabhraichean and Acair. To deliver a programme that is aligned to the core aims The 2011 programme involved many young people, G of Blas (HC) Gaelic language and international artists. Innovative events including the Fèis Spè event at the top of Cairngorm, an event at Inverness Airport and a new commission from Julie Fowlis – ‘Heisgeir’. To deliver a festival that is inclusive and will appeal to a Although we do not collect specific data on this G wide cross-section of age groups and cultural particular aspect of the festival, Blas has regularly backgrounds (HC) appealed to a wide audience as demonstrated in the
20 questionnaire feedback. This was the case again in 2011. To maintain excellent artistic standards and high Audience feedback was sought on this and we ensured G standards of customer and stakeholder care (HC) that funders and guests were looked after with complimentary tickets etc, as usual. Audience feedback showed a 94% satisfaction rating with quality of events and value for money.
Action Required Board members are asked to note the progress with our programme of work to the end of March 2012 and discuss any issues arising from the report.
Board members are further asked to note that a new report will be compiled once it has been possible to incorporate the outputs to be delivered as a result of all agreements for 2012-13. Progress will then be reported upon quarterly, as usual, and we expect the first report with the revised outputs to be ready by the end of the first quarter of 2012-13, the end of June 2012.
Arthur Cormack CEO May 2012
21
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Blas Festival 2012 Agenda Item: 2.2012.02(b)
Reason for Paper To inform board members of plans for Blas 2012.
Blas 2012 Blas 2012 will take place between 7 and 15 September.
The board of Blas Festival Ltd did not manage to meet prior to the local authority elections and it will now be for The Highland Council to nominate members to serve on the board since two of the current directors, Dr Michael Foxley and John Finnie, are no longer members of the council.
Our application for £50k to Creative Scotland was unsuccessful and this will mean a lean budget for Blas 2012, with fewer main events. We have applied to eight companies for sponsorship and we should know the outcome of the bids prior to the board meeting when a verbal update will be offered. If additional funding is forthcoming we will add events to the programme.
We are hoping that, with cooperation from other Gaelic organisations, the overall number of events at the festival will be at a similar level to last year with an expanded community programme. The latest programme is following. Confirmed events are in pink. If we secure further funding we will augment the programme with a choice of events from the proposals currently in black.
We are working towards a press launch on 21 June at Eden Court to which all board members will be invited.
Action Required Board members are invited to note the planned programme for Blas 2012 within the budgetary constraints that exist.
Arthur Cormack CEO May 2012
22 UPDATED 16/05/2012
DATE LOCHABER SKYE & LOCHALSH ROSS-SHIRE CAITH/SUTHERLAND INVERNESS BAD/S'SPEY/NAIRN
FRI 7 ROYBRIDGE KILMIUR STRATHPEFFER STRATHY LOCH NESS CRUISE THE MACKENZIES OF MABOU GAELIC DRAMA CALUM KENNDEDY TRIBUTE TATTIE AND HERRING NIGHT KRISTAN AND THE SANNA RACHEL WALKER IDEA TO BE FLESHED OUT ARTHUR MC with Fiona K ROBERT NAIRN CÈILIDH BAND FEIS LOCHABAIR (CALUM-ALEX) JAMES GRAHAM ALASDAIR WHYTE VENUE TBC FEIS AN EARRAICH DARREN MACLEAN CATRIONA MACLEOD MARGARET STEWART KRISTEEN KENNEDY 2012 COMMMISSION CALUM ALEX HIGHLAND WEDDING
SAT 8 STRONTIAN SLEAT | SABHAL MOR VENUE TBC TORRIDON INVERNESS | EMPIRE THE MACKENZIES OF MABOU MARGARET STEWART "THE BIG BLAS SHOW" GAELIC DRAMA "KICK-START" KRISTAN AND THE SANNA 2012 COMMMISSION REPRISE 2 COMMISSIONS IDEA TO BE FLESHED OUT HAMISH+FIN MOORE FEIS LOCHABAIR HIGHLAND WEDDING IF WE GET THE MONEY (CALUM-ALEX) BREABACH JAMES ROSS / EILIDH MOVE NMPC JUNIOR WINNERS SURPRISE FLASH MOB
SUN 9 GLENFINNAN NOTE: DAY OFF FOR KRISTAN AND THE SANNA INVERNESS CATHEDRAL SUPPER / TALK /SONG "AIRS AND GRACES" RUAIRIDH MACLEAN JOINT EVENT WITH NMPC AND SESSION SERVICE IN THANKS FOR CULTURE AND LANGUAGE MON 10 PORTREE POOLEWE GAELIC CHOIRS/PIPES INVERNESS AIRPORT THE MACKENZIES OF MABOU MARGARET STEWART "GIRLS ALLOWED" 2012 COMMMISSION KRISTAN AND THE SANNA HIGHLAND WEDDING VAMM LINDA MACLEOD
TUES 11 MALLAIG SCOURIE NAIRN THE MACKENZIES OF MABOU "GIRLS ALLOWED" MARGARET STEWART KRISTAN AND THE SANNA 2012 COMMMISSION VAMM HIGHLAND WEDDING LINDA MACLEOD
WEDS 12 RESOLIS KINGUSSIE THE MACKENZIES OF MABOU BLAZIN FIDDLES The ELEPHANT SESSIONS FIDIL
THU 13 INVERGARRY PORTMAHOMACK INVERNESS | EMPIRE "GIRLS ALLOWED" BLAZIN FIDDLES VOICES OF THE WORLD KRISTAN AND THE SANNA FIDL VAMM MAEVE MACKINNON + CHOIRS LINDA MACLEOD EMILY SMITH JULIE FOWLIS + MUIREANN NIC AMHLAOIBH CANNTAIREACHD
FRID 14 FORTWILLIAM PORTREE LOCHCARRON WICK BEAULY "THE BIG BLAS SHOW" AROS MAEVE MACKINNON TRIO BLAZIN FIDDLES "GIRLS ALLOWED" REPRISE 2 COMMISSIONS AONGHAS @70 The ELEPHANT SESSIONS FIDL KRISTAN AND THE SANNA IF WE GET THE MONEY and Local Feisean VAMM or LINDA MACLEOD GARY INNES SHINTY SHOW
SAT 15 KYLE/PLOCKTON ARDROSS ARDGAY INVERNESS | EMPIRE VENUE TBC VENISON SUPPER CÈILIDH SONG NIGHT GRAND FINALE KRISTAN AND THE SANNA THE GHILLIES (RECORD FOR BBC RADIO) BATTLEFIELD BAND MAGGIE MACDONALD TAKE THE FLOOR TYPE EVENT? BLAZIN FIDDLES TORMOD OR FÈIS ROIS AONGHAS @70 MARGARET STEWART 2012 COMMMISSION
23 Other Blas Events and Initiatives in 2012
House Cèilidhs Looking to have around 20 of these across the Blas area Families host a group of up to 8 at their home- some Gaelic, tea and scones, some music-the feel of the real cèilidh. Comunn na Gàidhlig keen to get involved in Iomairtean areas.
FILM
Eden Court Theatre A programme of "Gaelic Shorts" in the cinema on the afternoons of Saturday 7 and 15 "Gospel Truths" on Thursday 13th at 6.00 pm introduced by Maeve Mackinnon
Screen Machine SM will programme some Gaelic films during Blas week
MG Alba Keen to be involved and provide films for showing in village halls/schools
Clì Gàidhlig Will hold "Come and Try" Sessions prior to some of the concerts
Outdoor Activities Whitewave based in Kilmiur Skye will programme outdoor activities with a Gaelic slant
Natural History Events A programme of talks etc at Aigas House and Field Centre (renowned naturalist and author Sir John Lister-Kaye
Comhairle nan Leabhraichean Will provide Book Stalls and Writer events as in 2011
Community Programme 1. School Shows, Films and Workshops 2. Highland Rangers Walks and Shows 3. Highland Folk Museum 4. Eden Court Drama Outreach 5. Possible involvement of Meanbh-Chuileag to celebrate 10th anniversary
24
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Application by Fèis an Rubha for membership of Fèisean nan Gàidheal Agenda Item: 2.2012.02(f)
Reason for Paper An application for membership has been received and formal approval is required from the Board for new members.
Background Fèisean nan Gàidheal has been approached by the committee of Fèis an Rubha, who wish to re-establish a Fèis in the Point area of Lewis.
Policy Under the terms of our new HIE Funding agreement, we are required to establish three new Fèisean by 2015 in HIE’s designated Fragile Areas. This part of Lewis is not one of HIE’s Fragile Areas.
Under the terms of our Bòrd na Gàidhlig agreement, we are required to work with local Iomairtean Gàidhlig. There is a newly-established Iomairt Ghàidhlig in the Greater Broadbay area of Lewis which includes Point and Back.
The only risk associated with taking on any new Fèisean is that funding will be required for activities and will have to come from the finite budget we already have for grants to Fèisean. In this instance, we would look for independent funding to allow the Fèis to re-establish itself.
On balance, it is recommended that the application be accepted as it has come from a community wishing to engage in Gaelic development more widely, with Fèis activity as part of that and this will expand the work we are doing with Iomairtean Gàidhlig.
Action Required Board members are invited to approve the application for membership of Fèisean nan Gàidheal.
Arthur Cormack CEO May 2012
25 26 27
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Financial Issues Agenda Item: 2.2012.03
This report includes: Action Required
Agenda Item: 2.2012.3(a)
Income and Expenditure 2012-13 with transactions to 30 April 2012 For Noting and Discussion
Agenda item 2.2012.3(b)
Current bank balances will be advised at the meeting For Noting
Agenda item 2.2012.3(c)
Grants pledged to Fèisean for 2012-13 with payments to 30 April 2012 For Noting
Agenda item 2.2012.3(d)
Management accounts for the period to 31 March 2012, prepared by Mann Judd Gordon For Noting and Discussion
Anne Willoughby Executive Manager May 2012
28 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Income and Expenditure 2012-13 with transactions to 30 April 2012 Agenda Item 2.2012.03(a)
INCOME 2012-13 PERIOD ACTUAL Core Grants £ 349,333.00 £ 29,111.08 £ 150,000.00 Management Fees £ 99,550.00 £ 8,295.83 £ 0.00 Grants Scheme £ 200,000.00 £ 16,666.67 £ 20,000.00 Fèis Development Fund £ 5,000.00 £ 416.67 £ 0.00 Annualised Hours £ 10,000.00 £ 833.33 £ 0.00 Training £ 20,000.00 £ 1,666.67 £ 2,500.00 Gaelic Development £ 55,000.00 £ 4,583.33 £ 15,000.00 Youth Music Initiative £ 219,511.00 £ 18,292.58 £ 0.00 Blas Festival £ 195,500.00 £ 16,291.67 £ 0.00 Other Earned Income £ 12,550.00 £ 1,045.83 £ 1,020.73 Meanbh-Chuileag TIE Service £ 35,000.00 £ 2,916.67 £ 0.00 Support Cèilidh Trails £ 110,205.00 £ 9,183.75 £ 0.00 Gaelic Drama Summer School £ 28,000.00 £ 2,333.33 £ 0.00 Song-writing & Collecting Projects £ 12,500.00 £ 1,041.67 £ 0.00 Press/PR/Website Updates/Newsletter £ 1,000.00 £ 83.33 £ 0.00 Showcase Opportunities £ 10,000.00 £ 833.33 £ 0.00 Fèisean Services £ 24,000.00 £ 2,000.00 £ 0.00 General Funds still to be raised £ 12,952.00 £ 1,079.33 £ 0.00 TOTAL INCOME £ 1,400,101.00 £ 116,675.08 £188,520.73
EXPEND ITURE RUNNING COSTS Staff Salaries £ 307,936.00 £ 25,661.33 £25,407.25 NIC Contributions £ 36,952.00 £ 3,079.33 £2,636.84 Pension Contributions £ 15,397.00 £ 1,283.08 £659.57 Fèisean Services Staff Wages and NI £ 24,000.00 £ 2,000.00 £2,082.55 Staff Travel £ 22,000.00 £ 1,833.33 £203.26 Office Rent & Rates £ 23,000.00 £ 1,916.67 £2,124.53 Stationery, Printing & Postage £ 12,000.00 £ 1,000.00 £864.79 Telephone, Fax, E-mail, Heat & Light £ 13,000.00 £ 1,083.33 £463.72 Board Expenses £ 5,000.00 £ 416.67 £0.00 Implementation of Child Protection policy £ 10,000.00 £ 833.33 £636.00 Insurance £ 6,000.00 £ 500.00 £0.00 Sundry Expenses £ 1,000.00 £ 83.33 £0.00 Accountancy & Bank Charges £ 6,100.00 £ 508.33 £0.00 Professional Fees £ 1,000.00 £ 83.33 £0.00 Instrument Bank Maintenance £ 2,500.00 £ 208.33 £79.22 Additional Support Needs £ 500.00 £ 41.67 £0.00 Capital Expenses £ 3,000.00 £ 250.00 £21.46 PROGRAMME COSTS Grants Paid Out £ 200,000.00 £ 16,666.67 £ 16,642.00 Annualised Hours £ 10,000.00 £ 833.33 £ 0.00 Fèis Development Fund £ 5,000.00 £ 416.67 £ 0.00 Training Programme £ 20,000.00 £ 1,666.67 £ 253.27 Training Programme Management Fee -£ 3,000.00 -£ 250.00 £ 0.00
29 Gaelic Language Development £ 55,000.00 £ 4,583.33 £ 4,908.53 Gaelic Language Development Management Fee -£ 8,250.00 -£ 687.50 £ 0.00 Youth Music Initiative £ 219,511.00 £ 18,292.58 £ 285.80 Youth Music Initiative Management Fee -£ 50,000.00 -£ 4,166.67 £ 0.00 Annual Conference £ 8,000.00 £ 666.67 £ 0.00 Blas Festival £ 195,500.00 £ 16,291.67 £ 0.00 Blas Festival Management Fee -£ 15,000.00 -£ 1,250.00 £ 0.00 Support for Meanbh-Chuileag £ 35,000.00 £ 2,916.67 £ 0.00 Support Cèilidh Trails £ 110,205.00 £ 9,183.75 £ 127.40 Cèilidh Trails Management Fee -£ 12,000.00 -£ 1,000.00 £ 0.00 Gaelic Drama Summer School £ 28,000.00 £ 2,333.33 £ 0.00 Drama Summer School Management Fee -£ 2,800.00 -£ 233.33 £ 0.00 Archiving Project £ 12,500.00 £ 1,041.67 £ 0.00 Archiving Management Fee -£ 2,000.00 -£ 166.67 £ 0.00 Press/PR/Website Updates/Newsletter £ 1,000.00 £ 83.33 £ 0.00 Showcase Opportunities £ 10,000.00 £ 833.33 £ 0.00 Showcase Opportunities Management Fee -£ 1,500.00 -£ 125.00 £ 0.00 Contingency £ 1,000.00 £ 83.33 £ 0.00 SUB-TOTAL EXPENDITURE £ 1,300,551.00 £ 108,379.25 £ 59,271.19 Management Fees £ 99,550.00 £ 8,295.83 £0.00 TOTAL EXPENDITURE £ 1,400,101.00 £ 116,675.08 £ 59,271.19 Transfer to Reserves £ 17,421.25 £ 1,451.77 £0.00 SURPLUS/DEFICIT £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 129,249.54
30 Grants to Fèisean 2012-13 with payments to 30 April 2012 Agenda Item: 2.2012.03(c)
The following table details the Fèisean, the grants we have pledged to them and, where appropriate, sums paid out.
HIE Main Fèis Local Follow-on Annualised Annualised Development Total Grant Balance Outstanding Fèis Name HIE Fragile Grant Authority Grants Hours Hours Grant Fund Offered Paid Balance The Highland Council Fèis an Earraich √ √ £5,797.47 £3,165.53 £2,000.00 150 £ 1,125.00 £ 0.00 £ 12,088.00 £ 8,284.50 £ 3,803.50 Fèis Lochabair √ £2,842.78 £1,552.22 £1,000.00 100 £ 750.00 £ 0.00 £ 6,145.00 £ 3,296.00 £ 2,849.00 Fèis nan Garbh Chrìochan √ √ £3,686.89 £2,013.11 £3,050.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,900.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,900.00 Fèis Chataibh √ £2,029.08 £1,107.92 £1,872.00 80 £ 600.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,609.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,609.00 Fèis a' Bhealaich √ √ £298.83 £163.17 £532.00 10 £ 75.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,069.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,069.00 Fèis Rois Òigridh √ √ £6,361.50 £3,473.50 £5,345.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 15,180.00 £ 0.00 £ 15,180.00 Fèis Rois nan Deugairean √ √ £7,244.41 £3,955.59 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 11,200.00 £ 0.00 £ 11,200.00 Fèis Eige √ √ £877.74 £479.26 £0.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,507.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,507.00 Feis Ghallaibh √ √ £0.00 £0.00 £2,546.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,696.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,696.00 Fèis Farr √ £0.00 £0.00 £850.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 850.00 £ 0.00 £ 850.00 Fèis na h-Òige √ £711.51 £388.49 £1,160.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,260.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,260.00 Fèis Air an Oir √ √ £732.20 £399.80 £2,480.00 50 £ 375.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,987.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,987.00 Feis Ghleann Albainn √ £1,010.98 £552.02 £2,725.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,288.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,288.00 Fèis Ratharsaidh √ √ £1,466.99 £801.01 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,268.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,268.00 Fèis a' Bhaile √ £1,406.84 £768.16 £1,588.00 100 £ 750.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,513.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,513.00 Fèis Òigridh na Mara √ √ £468.95 £256.05 £5,720.00 200 £ 1,500.00 £ 0.00 £ 7,945.00 £ 0.00 £ 7,945.00 Fèis Inbhir Narann √ £897.15 £489.85 £3,001.00 100 £ 750.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,138.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,138.00 Fèis Spè √ £2,377.07 £1,297.93 £4,706.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,381.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,381.00 Fèis an Iar Thuath √ √ £358.99 £196.01 £300.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 855.00 £ 0.00 £ 855.00 Fèis Thròdairnis √ √ £2,000.62 £1,092.38 £604.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,697.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,697.00 Fèis a' Chaolais √ £0.00 £0.00 £1,520.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,520.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,520.00 Total Highland £40,570.00 £22,152.00 £40,999.00 850 £6,375.00 £0.00 £110,096.00 £11,580.50 £98,515.50 Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Fèis Tìr a' Mhurain / Ceòlas √ √ £3,211.00 £1,350.00 £1,732.00 80 £ 600.00 £ 0.00 £ 6,893.00 £ 0.00 £ 6,893.00 Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich √ £3,790.00 £1,800.00 £1,800.00 120 £ 900.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,290.00 £ 0.00 £ 8,290.00
31 Fèis Tìr an Eòrna √ √ £2,490.00 £1,350.00 £870.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,860.00 £ 0.00 £ 4,860.00 Fèis Bharraigh √ √ £4,475.00 £1,350.00 £3,454.00 60 £ 450.00 £ 0.00 £ 9,729.00 £ 0.00 £ 9,729.00 Fèis Eilean na Hearadh √ √ £1,337.00 £1,350.00 £0.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,837.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,837.00 Fèis an Rubha √ £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 Fèis Taigh Dhonnchaidh √ √ £916.00 £1,350.00 £1,144.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,410.00 £ 2,037.00 £ 1,373.00 Total Comhairle nan Eilean Siar £16,219.00 £8,550.00 £9,000.00 300 £2,250.00 £0.00 £36,019.00 £2,037.00 £33,982.00 Argyll & Bute Council Fèis Cholla √ √ £1,525.00 £0.00 £1,136.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,811.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,811.00 Fèis Latharna √ £3,231.00 £0.00 £3,100.00 50 £ 375.00 £ 0.00 £ 6,706.00 £ 2,610.50 £ 4,095.50 Fèis Mhuile √ √ £778.00 £0.00 £432.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,360.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,360.00 Fèis Thiriodh √ √ £700.00 £0.00 £550.00 60 £ 450.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,700.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,700.00 Fèis Ìle agus Dhùira √ √ £1,745.00 £0.00 £1,500.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,245.00 £ 0.00 £ 3,245.00 Fèis Dhùn Omhain √ √ £780.00 £0.00 £500.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,430.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,430.00 Fèis Cheann Loch Goibhle √ £1,207.00 £0.00 £1,359.00 40 £ 300.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,866.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,866.00 Total Argyll & Bute Council £9,966.00 £0.00 £8,577.00 210 £1,575.00 £0.00 £20,118.00 £2,610.50 £17,507.50 Other Area/City Councils Fèis Arainn √ £2,550.00 £0.00 £2,456.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,006.00 £ 0.00 £ 5,006.00 Fèis Mhoireibh √ √ £1,353.00 £0.00 £448.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,951.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,951.00 TOTAL HIE 37 23 £70,658.00 £30,702.00 £61,480.00 1,380 £10,350.00 £0.00 £173,190.00 £16,228.00 £156,962.00 Fèis Dhùn Èideann £2,750.00 £0.00 £6,100.00 300 £ 2,250.00 £ 0.00 £ 11,100.00 £ 1,125.00 £ 9,975.00 Fèis Chille Conbhal £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 Fèis Obair Dheathain £1,678.00 £0.00 £0.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,828.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,828.00 Feis Dhùn Bhreatainn £0.00 £0.00 £1,932.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,932.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,932.00 Fèis Lannraig a Tuath £878.00 £0.00 £728.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,606.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,606.00 Fèis Fhoirt £3,850.00 £0.00 £2,328.00 50 £ 375.00 £ 0.00 £ 6,553.00 £ 1,164.00 £ 5,389.00 Feis Ghlaschu £2,140.00 £0.00 £0.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,290.00 £ 0.00 £ 2,290.00 Fèis Innis an Uillt £945.00 £0.00 £0.00 20 £ 150.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,095.00 £ 0.00 £ 1,095.00 Fèis Lunnainn £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 Feis an t-Stratha £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 0 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 £ 0.00 Total Other Areas/City Councils £16,144.00 £0.00 £13,992.00 430 £3,225.00 £0.00 £33,361.00 £2,289.00 £31,072.00 Main Fèis Local Follow-on Annualised Annualised Development Total Grant Balance Outstanding Grant Authority Grants Hours Hours Grant Fund Offered Paid Balance GRAND TOTALS £ 82,899.00 £ 30,702.00 £ 72,568.00 1790 £ 13,425.00 £ 0.00 £ 199,594.00 £ 18,517.00 £ 181,077.00
32
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Management Accounts to 31 March 2012 Agenda Item: 2.2012.03(d)
33 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Consolidated management accounts Year ended 31 March 2012 Description Total Core activities Blas Festival Training Schools Gaelic Heritage project development project
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCOMING RESOURCES Creative Scotland 403,805 353,000 50,000 805 0 Highland Council 340,404 47,393 73,500 219,511 Comhairle nan Eilean Siar 15,980 15,980 Argyll & Bute Council 7,000 7,000 Highland & Islands Enterprise 165,985 143,985 22,000 Bord na Gaidhlig 132,645 51,395 25,000 5,000.00 51,250 Comunn na Gaidhlig 8,250 2,000 6,250 Leader (Argyll) 3,417 3,417 Leader (Highland) 5,523 5,523 Scotland's Islands 30,000 30,000 Soillse (900) (900) Stòrlann Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig 5,250 5,250 Membership fees 5,825 5,825 Sponsorship income 0 Sale of publications 1,339 1,339 Instrument bank revenue 7,581 7,581 Training registration fees 5,370 5,370 Ceilidh Trails - other income 60,535 60,535 Management fees 131,258 131,258 Box office / concerts 39,486 39,486 Performance fees 4,261 1,650 2,611 Other income 7,694 2,694 5,000 Wages reimbursed by Feisean 25,093 25,093 Bank interest received 728 728 Total incoming respources 1,406,529 865,495 222,986 11,175 219,511 87,361 0 RESOURCES EXPENDED Fundraising trading Instrument bank costs 4,327 4,327 Artistes costs 55,972 55,972 Travel and support 26,406 26,406 PA& Lighting 23,975 23,975 Venue hire 1,103 1,103 PA and lighting 40,839 40,839 Project manager 39,960 39,960 Commissions 11,453 11,453 204,034 4,327 199,707 0 0 0 0 Charitable activities Wages 331,880 331,880 Development officers & tutors 123,486 9,337 114,149 Grants to Feisean 197,460 197,460 Travelling 40,378 32,564 7,814 Child protection costs 13,034 13,034 Training 6,381 6,381 Workshops 28,962 14,429 14,533 Materials 8,745 8,745 Sgoil Shamhraidh 33,380 33,380 Ceilidh trail 90,600 90,600 Festival costs 16,244 16,244 Tachartasan Comhnaidh 2012 1,572 1,572 Project management 15,000 15,000 Management charge 131,258 52,184 18,500 47,000 13,574 Sundry expenses 4,826 2,768 2,058 1,043,206 697,263 20,558 20,809 217,458 87,117 0 Governance costs Audit & accountancy 7,386 6,386 1,000 Committee expenses 3,350 3,350 Annual conference 11,137 11,137 Legal & professional fees 149 149 22,022 21,022 1,000 0 0 0 0 Support costs Social security 31,344 31,344 Pensions 8,993 8,993 Staff travel & expenses 30,401 30,401 Office rent 26,863 26,863 Light and heat 7,189 7,189 Insurance 488 488 Capital costs 6,807 6,807 Telephone 7,547 7,547 Postage and stationery 13,010 13,010 Website costs 6,440 6,415 25 Bank charges and interest 572 475 97 Depreciation 1,397 523 874 141,050 139,567 1,483 0 0 0 0 Total resources expended 1,410,311 862,179 222,747 20,809 217,458 87,117 0 Net incoming / (outgoing) resources - for year ended 31 March 2012 (3,782) 3,317 239 (9,634) 2,053 244 0 Total funds at 1 April 2011 87,837 Total funds at 31 March 2012 84,056
34 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Consolidated management accounts Year ended 31 March 2012 Description Total Core activities Blas Festival Training Schools Gaelic Heritage project development project
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2012
Fixed assets Photocopier - cost 11,042 Computer equipment - cost 2,791 Photocopier - depreciation (8,421) Computer equipment - depreciation (1,221) 4,191 Current assets Grants receivable 89,425 VAT 2,113 91,538 Bank accounts FnG current account (67,282) FnG high interest account 75,993 Deposit account 0 Blas Festival current account 1,808 10,519 Current liabilities Social security and other tax (9,273) Trade creditors (5,665) Unpaid grants to Feisean 0 Accrued expenses (7,255) (22,192)
Net assets as at 31 March 2012 84,056
35
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Draft Highlands & Islands Enterprise Agreement 2012-15 Agenda Item: 2.2012.03(e)
Reason for Paper To provide Board members with sight of the proposed agreement with Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) for 2012-15.
Background Board members will be aware that HIE has agreed funding for Fèisean nan Gàidheal for this and the next two financial years: up to £170k in 2012-13, £160k in 2013-14 and £150k in 2014-15.
Agreement 2012-15 Ledingham Chalmers LLP, solicitors, on behalf of HIE issued a Legal Undertaking on 2 May. Following a meeting with Ann Marie Reid on 9 May some amendments were proposed by us, detailed on the following page and these have all been incorporated into the fresh document, issued on 15 May, which follows.
As part of the process, Steve Westbrook produced an Assessment Report on the likely economic impacts of our work between 2012 and 2015 which Board members can view here http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5730322/FnGImpacts201215.pdf.
Additionally, HIE has published a new Operating Plan which includes a Fèis image as well as detailing the importance of Gaelic and the Creative Industries to the region. The Plan can be viewed here http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5730322/HIEOperatingPlan201215.pdf.
Action Required Board members are asked to note the content of the agreement, the legal consequences referred to in the covering letter and, if content, approve the agreement for signing by the Chair and Company Secretary.
Arthur Cormack CEO May 2012
36
Amendments proposed by Fèisean nan Gàidheal to first draft of HIE agreement for 2012-15, following a meeting with Ann Marie Reid on 9 May
Page 5 - (12) MANAGEMENTS ACCOUNTS, suggest: "The Obligant shall … provide HIE with quarterly management accounts within 30 days of the end of the period …"
Page 6 - FOURTH CONDUCT OF BUSINESS, ACCOUNTS ETC (2), suggest: "… And in particular shall provide HIE with quarterly management accounts in a form to be approved by HIE within 30 days of the end of the period …"
Page 10 - SCHEDULE Community Participation bullet point 2, suggest: "Explore the feasibility of establishing Gaelic drama and other community-related Gaelic language initiatives for adults in collaboration with strategic partners such as Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, by 31st March 2015."
Page 10 - SCHEDULE Cultural Tourism Products bullet point 2, suggest: "Stage 3 national showcase events; showcasing the region's Gaelic culture to wider audiences at home and abroad through participation in appropriate events and festivals."
In addition to the amendments, in discussion we clarified a number of areas, as follows:
Page 3 - THIRD PRECONDITIONS/SPECIAL CONDITIONS: It is recognised that some of our funding, from local authorities etc, is currently on a year-to-year contract/agreement basis. We will therefore forward on to you signed letters of offer from funders as evidence of match funding as and when they are signed off and agreed and will forward on those agreements, such as those from Creative Scotland and Bòrd na Gàidhlig, already finalised.
Page 5 - (14) PROGRESS REPORTS AND BOARD PAPERS: Fèisean nan Gàidheal shall ensure that HIE's targets are highlighted in the progress reports submitted.
Page 5 - (15) REVIEW MEETINGS: It will be for HIE to call review meetings and you agreed to come back with some dates for an initial meeting around the end of July.
37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
Fèisean nan Gàidheal Overdraft Facility with Clydesdale Bank Plc Agenda Item: 2.2012.03(g)
Reason for Paper To secure agreement from the Board to an offer of overdraft facility from Clydesdale Bank Plc.
Background Fèisean nan Gàidheal has been quite fortunate for a number of years in not having to borrow funds for its day-to-day operations, and the funds we have at our disposal are managed very well in that respect. However there are times where we occasionally slip into an overdraft situation with our Current Account and having an overdraft facility covers us if, for instance, it is not possible for us to transfer funds from our High Interest Account to our Current Account which, without the facility, would be deemed to be unauthorised borrowing and could cost us dearly.
The Offer from Clydesdale Bank Plc Our bankers, Clydesdale Bank Plc, have offered us a facility of £25k at a cost of £437.50 with interest at 6.3% over the bank base rate, currently 0.5%. Therefore, 6.8% at the time of agreeing the facility. In addition there are two charge cards, each with a limit of £10k, which allows us to make purchases for which card payments would normally be required.
The bank requires a specific form of words to which the Board members must agree and their agreement is to be signed off by the Company Secretary and another Director, as detailed in the following page.
Action Required Board members are invited to agree that: (i) the borrowing facility with Clydesdale Bank Plc be taken up; (ii) the form of words required by the bank be incorporated into the minute of the meeting; and (iii) Fiona Johnston (Company Secretary) and Catriona MacIntyre (Chair) execute the document on the following page and on page 7 of the letter from the bank, on behalf of the Board.
Arthur Cormack CEO May 2012
51
Extract of Board Resolution
I, Fiona Johnston, being the Company Secretary of Fèisean nan Gàidheal Limited (the “Company”), hereby certify that the following is a true extract from the minutes of a quorate and duly convened meeting of the Directors of the Company at which all appropriate interests were declared and which was held on 24 May 2012.
“There was produced to the meeting the facility letter (the “Letter”) from Clydesdale Bank PLC (the “Bank”) dated 11 April 2012 which sets out the terms and conditions on which the Bank is prepared to make available overdraft and other facilities (the “Facilities”) to the Company.
After due and careful consideration of the terms of the Letter and of all the relevant circumstances, IT WAS RESOLVED that:
1 The utilising by the Company of up to the full amount of the Facilities on the terms and conditions set out on the Facility Letter is for the benefit of, and in the best commercial interests of, the Company for the purpose of carrying on its business and that the terms and conditions of such Facility Letter are approved and accepted; and
2 the Facility Letter be executed on behalf of the Company by the Director and the Company Secretary specified below, who are also authorised to sign on behalf of the Company all such other documents, agreements, certificates, notices, communications or confirmations, including amendments, variations, renewals and extensions, as may be required in connection with the Facilities, or the Facility Letter.”
Signed: …………………………………………………………..……………. Director - Catriona MacIntyre (Chair)
Signed: …………………………………………………………………………. Director - Fiona Johnston (Company Secretary)
Dated: 24 May 2012
52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 Fèisean nan Gàidheal Staff Progress Reports Agenda Item: 2.2012.05(a)
Name Arthur Cormack Position Chief Executive
Action/Outcome Progress
Background Board members should note that Fèisean nan Gàidheal Programme of Work report is compiled by me each quarter. Therefore, I am confining this report to matters not covered within other reports to the Board.
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the development of our system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services (CS) I am lead officer for Fèis Rois and I met with Fiona Dalgetty, Chief Executive of Fèis Rois, on 15 May in Dingwall.
Funding Fèis Rois had some questions around the funding Fèisean nan Gàidheal has offered for 2012-13 and I have agreed to look at this.
Activity • Fèis Rois nan Oileanach took place in Ullapool from 24-26 February for fluent Gaelic speaking students • Fèis Rois Òigridh took place in Ullapool from 2-6 April 2012 and was very successful with 135 participants • Fèis Rois Inbhich took place in Ullapool from 4-7 May and attracted a large number of participants • A "Sing Out!" workshop took place in Strathpeffer Community Centre on 25 February • The National Hotel in Dingwall and Fèis Rois hosted a regular music session for young people in S3 and above on Friday 24 February, 30 March, 27 April and 25 May • A new programme of adult classes saw 26 sign up for a new adult fiddle classes in Dingwall on Thursday evenings and over 30 people attending a session at Tulloch Castle each Wednesday night • 5 Community Fèis days in Lochcarron - 18 February and 28 April with more to come on 23 June, 11 August and 3 November
Fèis Rois is currently planning for: • Trad Trails - a joint project with the TMSA celebrating the Year of Creative Scotland • A summer Cèilidh Trail • Participation in Blas with a ‘flash mob’ and a slot in the Finale Concert
Gaelic Fèis Rois had 32 musicians taking part in nine hours of Gaelic language tuition last month with Fiona Dunn. The feedback was very favourable with several tutors considering taking part in further courses. This should help ensure the delivery of our Gaelic policy.
Training for YMI Tutors Rachael Duff has piloted a mentoring programme for YMI tutors and the expansion of this to other areas is something the YMI Area Coordinator’s meeting will be discussing on 21 May.
67 Diary Commitments since previous meeting 25.04.12 Meeting with Morag Anna MacLeod regarding Highland Council funding agreements 26.04.12 Meeting with Donna Macrae, Calum Alex Macmillan and Hugh Dan MacLennan in Dingwall regarding Blas 01.05.12 Attendance at Fèis Dhràma Earra-Ghàidheal agus Loch Abar in Oban 09.05.12 Meeting with Ann Marie Reid of HIE in Portree to finalise funding agreement 10.05.12 Meeting of Executive Group by phone conference 10.05.12 Meeting with Seumas MacTaggart of MacTV in Portree 14.05.12 Skype interview with Nod Knowles as part of Creative Scotland’s sectoral review of music 15.05.12 Meeting with Fiona Dalgetty at Fèis Rois offices 21.05.12 Meeting with Donald MacLeod and Donald MacVicar at Argyll & Bute Council regarding funding agreements
Ainm Calum Alex Macmillan Dreuchd Development Officer
Gnìomh/Toradh Adhartas
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) This support is delivered by a team of three development officers and one senior development officer. I maintain regular contact with this development team and offer guidance and support to them on a daily basis.
I also support four Fèisean.
Fèis Fhoirt – A weekend Fèis was held in March where there were good numbers in attendance. They are continuing with their follow on program and will hold a further weekend Fèis towards the end of September.
They are also busy preparing for their first Ceilidh Trail. They have selected their participants and plans are now coming together for their program of summer concerts.
Fèis Ghallaibh – I visited Fèis Chataibh's roadshow of Caithness schools in March. The workshops aimed to promote the work of the fèis and attract new faces. They are also continuing with their monthly events.
Fèis Dhuneideann – The Fèis are currently preparing for their Fèis which will take place on 19-21 April. As works were been carried out at their usual venue in February the fèis had to be postponed. The Fèis will return to February in 2013.
Fèis Obar Dheathain – There is no activity from the Fèis at present. I have made several attempts to meet with the committee but to date this hasn't proved possible.
1.2 At least two people to be supported through the Work Placement/Graduate Placement schemes run by CnaG. (BnG) We will be supporting this scheme again by employing Ellen MacDonald for 10 weeks during the summer months. Ellen was also on a 3 week placement with us during March as part of her studies at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig.
1.3 Continue to invest in new developments through our Fèis Development Fund (CS) We recently supported Fèis Tìr a' Mhurain as part of their entry to FilmG. The scheme for 2012/13 will shortly be opening.
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the
68 development of our system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services (CS) The development officers work closely with their Fèisean, maintaining regular contact and identify areas where they need support.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Western Isles (CnES) With support from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar we maintain a development officer's post in this area.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Argyll & Bute Council area (A&BC) With support from Argyll and Bute Council we maintain a development officer's post in this area. We hope to cofirm the councils support for 2012/13 in the coming weeks.
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information We make a concerted effort to ensure that press releases and relevant information and advertising about Fèis events and events in which Fèisean nan Gàidheal are involved are distributed by email to ur wide database, we distribute a quarterly newsletter and we use local media agents and social networking at every opportunity.
1.12 Create 2 new Fèisean in HIE Fragile Areas (HIE) There has been interest from Canna to establish a family Fèis and Maria Macinnes is communicating with representatives from the community.
1.12 Support the establishment of new Fèisean where communities request assistance and funding allows (CS) There is interest from parents and schoolteachers in Aberfeldy to establish regular Fèis events.
1.14 Inter-Fèis activities A number of Fèisean work together on various projects and there is an increase in communication between member Fèisean. With the development fund to be opening shortly it is hoped that more Fèisean will look at the opportunities for increased inter-fèis activity.
1.15 Annual Training Programme The annual training weekend took place in March. I led a Microsoft Excel class as the intended tutor had to ddrop out at short notice.
The Gaelic training for Fèis tutors is continuing and a good number of tutors have undertaken regular tuition through Ulpan and various other classes. We will continue to offer basic language workshops for those who have little or no Gaelic.
1.16 Networking I continue to represent Fèisean nan Gàidheal and Blas at various conferences and meetings.
2.1 Prepare a Gaelic Language Policy for Fèisean nan Gàidheal, which will be adopted by members of the organisation All Fèisean have been developing individual Gaelic plans with help from development officers that strengthen the delivery of Gaelic through their activities.
2.2 Continue to implement Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy through services offered to all the Fèisean through its staff and special projects as appropriate. We support Fèisean in a number of ways to ensure successful implementation of the Gaelic Policy. They receive help with nay translation needs they have, Gaelic activities, tutor choice as well as G- team being made available to help with delivery of Gaelic content and committee support during Fèisean. Support is also offered to Fèisean who are seeking funding to deliver Gaelic medium events, one such opportunity was with Bòrd na Gàidhlig's Taic Freumhan Coimhearsnachd, a number of Fèisean made applications and though not all were successful a good number received support for new projects.
69 2.2 Provide support for Fèisean with Gaelic language activities utilising our G-Team. (CS) The G-team will attend Fèis Dhùneideann and Fèis Mhoireibh shortly.
2.3 Regular review of progress with implementation of Gaelic Policy. (BnG) Fèisean are asked to detail Gaelic development on an annual basis when completing their grant forms. This year we are asking them to detail how they have implemented the Gaelic policy to date and how they are to develop and strengthen this.
The policy will be reviewed shortly and updated for the period 2012-2015.
2.4 Establish family-based Fèis activities to strengthen the use of Gaelic (CS) Fèis Lochabair ran some family events during February and March and are looking at more opportunities for this in the coming months.
We will continue to look at opportunities for families as add-ons to current Fèisean events.
2.8 Continue to have an active role in delivering the National Gaelic Arts Strategy and supporting the work of the joint CS/BnG Gaelic Arts Officer (CS) We maintain our support for the National Gaelic Arts Strategy and regular contact is maintained between myself and the officer as well as Fèisean nan Gàidheal as a whole. Dougie Beck and I take part in NGAS meetings through conference/Skype as they are held in Glasgow.
2.10 Further work in supporting and developing new song writing in Gaelic, building on achievements in 2010. (CS) Four young people took part in songwriting workshops in March under a project partnership between Fèisean nan Gàidheal and Watercolour studios. The project was successful with positive feedback from participants and project advisors. The songs have been/are currently being recorded and I look forward to hearing the end product.
2.13 Run a Gaelic medium teenage Fèis during the year (CS) We held a successful new Fèis '5 Latha' during the Easter holidays at the Gearrannan Blackhouses in Carloway. There were 16 participants attending and they had the opportunity to work with a crofter, cut peats, cook, fish, visit a Harris tweed weaver as well as receiving singing and music workshops. We finished the week with a family cèilidh in the Carloway community hall where there was over seventy from the surrounding area in attendance. The feedback from participants was very positive and all indicated that they would be very willing to return to the Fèis next year.
3.6 Run a Gaelic medium teenage Fèis during the year (CS) We are busy putting plans together for Blas 2012. There will be at least 20 concerts and we are aiming to add to this with further funding and sponsorships. The Blas fringe will be developing again this year with house ceilidhs and cinema events, as well as the schools programme and community trails. We also hope to add to this with support from Gaelic organisations and community groups to promote our language, music and song.
Name Anne Willoughby Position Executive Manager
Action/Outcome Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) We will be supporting more than 43 Fèisean during 2012-13 and will ensure that high standards of delivery are maintained. On-going. Work of the whole organisation is geared towards achieving this and my role is
70 financial support.
I manage the Business Officer, Training Officer and Child Protection Officer on a daily basis and give support and guidance to other staff as and when required.
Core funding 11/12 I have worked closely with Andy Cumming in the preparation of the quarterly management accounts and the year end accounts to 31 March 2012. All core payments have been received from Highland Council. All core payments have been received from Creative Scotland as per cashflow. The final quarterly payment has been received from Bòrd na Gàidhlig. I submitted the third interim claim for £25,857.22 to HIE, now paid out and the final claim will be submitted shortly. Arthur and I met with Ann Marie Reid on 09 May to discuss our HIE funding agreement 2012-15.
Core funding 12/13 We have been keeping tight controls on financial matters and this is on-going and will continue for the financial year end 31 March 2013. We are awaiting the first core payment from Highland Council. All payments have been received from Creative Scotland as per cashflow. £35,000 the first quarterly payments has been received from Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
General Funding: I met up with Nicola Simpson to submit a third claim to Highland LEADER+ for £11,973.18 for Cèilidh Trail funding and a final claim for the remaining £4,610.86 has also been submitted. A final claim for £3,420.92 has been submitted to Argyll Leader+. Nicola and I met with Nicole Wallace to discuss Leader funding claims for the final year.
I prepared financial papers for the Executive Group Meetings and Board Meetings. I maintained a payroll for Feis a’Bhaile and Fèis Spè and have assisted with their recent Leader Claims. I support the Fèisean by ensuring all grant payments are paid out per conditions of grant. I ensure all YMIS payments are processed quickly and admin fees to all Feisean paid. I give financial support to Blas Festival Ltd, budget monitoring, preparation of Vat returns, HMRC quarterly returns. All expenditure relating to Blas 2011 has now been processed and starting to process invoices for Blas 2012. All grant application forms for 2012/13 have been received and have been processed and letters of offer sent out to all Fèisean. The claims for outstanding grant payments for 2011/12 had to be submitted by 31 March 2012 and all amounts due have been paid out
1.1 Continue to operate as an organisations striving for excellence in delivery of services and projects, with sound governance and general working practices. (CS) Last year we overhauled all our policies to ensure good governance and working practices and these will remain under review.
1.1 Plan to apply efficiencies of 3% (£3,750) of Bòrd na Gàidhlig funding from within running costs of the organisation towards new projects that will contribute towards increasing numbers of Gaelic speakers (BnG) We have already made substantial savings on our telephone and franking machine rentals and we are confident this can be achieved. We have also cut down on travel costs for staff and Executive Group meetings as they are now held by telephone conferencing. A further saving of over £300 was made on our insurance premiums.
1.2 Prepare a pay policy for the organisation for 2011-12 and beyond that is in line with the Scottish Government’s Pay Policy. (BnG)
71 Fèisean nan Gàidheal operates within the pay policy for the public sector and is, therefore, closely aligned to the Scottish Government’s Pay Policy.
1.3 Continue to run a Grants Scheme for Fèisean allowing investment in a variety of local activities (CS) Grants scheme in place and grants pledged for 2012-13. Despite cuts to core funding grants to Fèisean have been kept at the same level as 11-12. Grants will be paid out as per agreements.
1.3 Support offered to at least 40 Fèisean from our Grants Scheme and through practical help. (BnG) Grants offered to 43 Fèisean for 2012-13. From 01 April 2012, grants have been offered to 43 Fèisean (36 in HIE areas), 23 of which are in Fragile Areas, totalling £199,594.00 as detailed in the tables provided for Board meetings. Payments totalling £18,517.00 have been paid out to 6 Fèisean to date.
1.3 Support at least 30 Highlands and Islands Fèisean each year (HIE) Grants offered to 36 Fèisean in the HIE area, 23 of which are in HIE Fragile Areas.
1.4 Continuation of Annualised Hours scheme Annualised hours offered for 2012-13 as part of overall grant offer, with those Fèisean which have made the best use of them in the past having been given priority. A total of 1790 hours have been offered. As a condition of funding, the Development Team continue to work closely with workers employed under this scheme.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Western Isles (CnES) Jenna Morrison employed full-time with part funding from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Argyll & Bute Council area (A&BC) Christine MacIntyre employed full-time with part funding from Argyll & Bute Council.
1.5 Hold an Annual Conference (CS) Plans are underway for the 2012 Conference which will be held in the West End Hotel in Fort William this year on 21/22 September.
1.6 Adequate insurance cover in place for Fèisean nan Gàidheal, its staff and all Fèis activities. Policy reviewed and renewed in February 2013 with cover adjusted as appropriate. Cover was previously extended to cover the offices in Inverness and Stornoway and contents cover updated for the Portree office, therefore there were no additional changes this year. Staff are requested to have their own business use insurance policies if using their own cars for company travel.
1.8 All tutors and volunteers involved in Fèisean must go through an enhanced Disclosure check. Ongoing work undertaken by Sandy Gray as Disclosures continue to be renewed, under the new PVG scheme, on an ongoing basis as 3 years expire. All Fèisean must submit a list of tutors before grant is released, which is cross-referenced to ensure they have a current Disclosure. Disclosures have been renewed on a rolling basis for those on the database as and when 3 years expire. The current Disclosure Scotland process changed on 28 February 2011 to what is known as the Protection of Vulnerable Groups or P.V.G Scheme. There are also cost implications, renewal under the P.V.G Scheme will cost £59.00 and updates will cost £18.00 – the previous cost for disclosure was £23.00. The budgeted amounts have been changed to reflect this. Disclosures have been renewed on a rolling basis for those on the database as and when 3 years expire.
1.8 Continue to ensure good practice in relation to Child Protection within the new system introduced by Disclosure Scotland. (CS)
72 Policy updated and monitored on an ongoing basis and we are implementing changes to the system to comply with the PVG scheme.
1.13 Continue to support individual Fèis projects such as Fèis Bharraigh and Feis Spè expansion activities (CS) Continuing to support Fèis Spè and Fèis a’Bhaile with payroll and other services.
1.16 Working with other Gaelic organisations, local authorities, community representatives and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to expand Iomairtean Gàidhlig (Gaelic Initiatives) and deliver the main aims of Ginealach Ùr na Gàidhlig (BnG) We are very willing to do this and will support Iomairtean in areas where we have staff, as well as the Fèisean within those areas. We are making our facilities available to them and have well exceeded the 500 hours of staff time required during 2011-12. Fèisean nan Gàidheal is making efforts to improve the level of Gaelic in the Portree area, by holding regular lunch-time sessions, once a week, to allow people the opportunity to come along and speak Gaelic in a sociable way, and to improve their skills. Numbers are low but this has been re-advertised to increase numbers.
2.12 Produce research on the creation of a Fèis ‘cultural hub’ providing social, performance and teaching spaces, exploiting distance learning technology and links to creative industries, within a fragile Gaelic community (HIE We have offered financial assistance to Ceòlas towards the costs of a feasibility study to establish a cultural hub in South Uist, which will benefit the Uist Fèisean also.
CPD I hope to continue with my studies for the CIMA Professional Accountancy Qualification - Advanced Diploma In Management Accounting (Ad Dip MA) shortly.
Name Iona MacDonald Position Training and Policy Officer May 2012 Action/Outcome Progress
1.4 Supporting volunteers: Policies are made as easy as possible for volunteers to deliver; continuation of Annualised Hours scheme Each policy was reviewed in February 2012, and the risk register updated. These will be reviewed and updated as required in January 2013. Fèis Trèanaidh 2012 was held in Inverness on 10/11 March, and 44 participants took part. Although numbers were lower than expected, the workshops received good feedback.
1.5 Annual Conference.
1.15 Annual Training Programme – providing training to 30 fèisean each year and at least 75 tutors and fèis organisers 27 participants attended the tutor training session at SMO in February, representing 5 fèisean, and 44 attended FT12 in Inverness, representing 14 fèisean. In addition, 15 attended the one-day Gaelic training sessions in Glasgow and Inverness, and 6 have completed stages of Ùlpan training, supported by Fèisean nan Gàidheal.
1.15 Staff to be involved in at least 4 Gaelic language training days (BnG) Ongoing. Two training days have been held this year and 11 staff members were involved in the workshops during FT12.
73 2.3 Develop mechanisms for the delivery of our Gaelic Language Policy within Fèisean nan Gàidheal Assisting the development officers to achieve this. The results of the research project (carried out with assistance from Soillse) have been written up. Various methods of language teaching are being employed – 2 hour workshops, one day courses, Ùlpan and registration on the Cùrsa Inntrigidh at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig are all used.
2.7 Encourage local Fèisean to archive material which could be utilised in teaching situations in their area There are various ways in which Fèisean can build an archive; songs, stories, collecting local history, oral history, compilations of local interest, eg. cookbook. The fèisean will be encouraged to build on their local collections for use in fèisean.
2.8 Gaelic Arts Strategic Development Assisting where required.
3.4 Other formal educational work I was involved in the teaching of university modules at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig (Teaching Music 1) as lead lecturer, as well as including SMO students in the Tutor Training weekend as a formal part of their course. The course is not running this term. Paper presented to “Ainmeil thar Cheudan” at SMO, on oral and social history collected from the Maclean family. Published (as second author, with Mark Sheridan and Charles Byrne) Gaelic singing and oral tradition in International Journal of Music Education Volume 29 Issue 2, May 2011 (pdf available from me). Paper in preparation for Rannsachadh na Gàidhlig (Glasgow, August 2012) on Highland Food (20 – 23 August 2012).
Eile Develop Level 3 course for fèis tutors Level 3 has now been developed and was first offered at the Tutor training weekend at SMO 26/27 February 2011, as well as Levels 1 and 2. 6 students registered on Level 3 which is a two-part course – college-based and practical. The 3 levels ran very successfully, and utilised existing teaching staff to most effect. 3 students undertook the college-based element of Level 3 in 2012, with one student from 2011 completing the observed class element (final part).
Submit 2 applications to funding bodies for the purpose of progressing training opportunities Application to Soillse for Gaelic research - £3000 received. Applications were made to ESF and to LEADER for funding for Gaelic tutor training, but were refused on the grounds that they were not eligible within the current priorities. An application to Enterprise Music Scotland (trad arts small grant fund) to assist with Cuairt nam Bàrd was refused. An application to Colmcille is in progress. An application to Creative Scotland/YMI for £2500 towards a recording and podcasting course was successful.
Progress with in-house training programme within available budget Progressing. Staff are encouraged to take advantage of workshops during Fèis Trèanaidh. 4 days were spent with Fèis Rois undertaking training appropriate to arts organisation resilience. This training was led by the Management Centre. Staff will be involved in different training sessions according to requirements identified at their appraisals.
Complete all preparations for Fèis Trèanaidh 2012, and distribute information. Draft to be complete by 31.10.11 FT12 complete. Workshops were Recording and Podcasting, Gaelic language, Gaelic Games for Children, Manual Handling, Child Protection, Risk Assessment, Using Word and Excel, and Make a Splash. It is not yet decided whether the current format for organiser training will continue in 2013, and it may be more cost-effective to look at regional training again, in 4 separate areas.
74 Other responsibilities: Celtic Neighbours – this project has its main office in Wales, and has international plans to bring people and projects from the Celtic areas (Scotland, Ireland, Wales in particular) together for mutual benefit. Celtic Neighbours, of which Fèisean nan Gàidheal is a major partner, are bringing the tri- national singing group, Triùir or Tair, to Ireland for a week-long tour in May 2012, following closely on the co-operative youth music & drama venture, “Branwen” – a collaboration between Fèisean nan Gàidheal, An nÓg, and Theatr Felin-fach which took place in Dingle in April. Looking towards the future, a major conference on shared Celtic developmental and cultural themes is to be held in June 2013, and preparations are already underway for this. It is likely that this could contribute to target 1.18 – International Links
Seann-nòs na nÒg This Irish initiative invited Fèisean nan Gàidheal to participate via IT on 2 December. A short video of song was made and broadcast as part of the festivities.
Cofaidh is Còmhradh As part of the combined local Gaelic initiative, a weekly Gaelic conversation session is held at Fèisean nan Gàidheal. There is an open invitation to members of the local community who wish to improve their spoken Gaelic to come along and enjoy a cup of coffee and participate in the conversation. Between 4 and 9 participants attend each week, the furthest travelled being from California. A further recruitment drive for this is currently underway.
Name Moreen Pringle Position Business Officer
Action/Outcome Progress
1.5 Hold an Annual Conference (CS) This year’s AGM will take place in the West End Hotel, in Fort William on 21/22 September.
1.7 Regular lending of instruments to Fèisean Instruments have been well used by Fèisean throughout the year. Demand still remains high despite a number of Fèisean having their own instrument banks. Instruments have recently been sent out to Fèis Ile.
Demand for instruments is difficult to predict as certain instruments are more popular from year to year perhaps due to tutor availability. The demand for clàrsaich remains high due to cost factors.
In total we currently have hire contracts for: 17 Clàrsaich, 9 Fiddles, 2 Smallpipes, 18 Accordions, 1 Guitar
1.8 All tutors and volunteers involved in Fèisean must go through an enhanced Disclosure check. All Fèisean must submit a list of tutors before grant is released, which is cross-referenced to ensure they have a current Disclosure.
1.9 Maintenance of a Fèis Tutors database Efforts are made to keep the database as up to date as possible. Information on tutor Fèis activities are entered regularly.
1.10 Developing, distributing and selling publications We are currently working on selling as many as possible through Fèisean, shops etc. Website shop has now been set up on www.feisean.org/shop.html.
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information
75 The March edition of Faileas was produced and put on the website. The next edition will be produced in June.
1.19 Promotion and Marketing Along with support from Fèisean and Lead Officers this is now being progressed. Fèis products are available through our online shop at www.feisean.org but there is potential for greater sales.
1.20 Website and ICT The new Website www.feisean.org continues to be updated on a regular basis by myself and other staff as appropriate.
3.1 Youth Music Initiative contract in Highland New Gaelic whistle book produced by Taigh na Teud in association with Fèisean nan Gàidheal and Stòrlann to be distributed more widely. We supply tin whistles and other instruments to YMI tutors as required.
Name Dougie Beck Position Drama Offficer
Action/outcome Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) As a member of the team which looks at the Gaelic Policy I offer help and advice to the Fèisean, and also to other groups which approach us.
1.1 Plan to apply efficiencies of 3% (£3,750) of Bòrd na Gàidhlig funding from within running costs of the organisation towards new projects that will contribute towards increasing numbers of Gaelic speakers (BnG) Although I always do a lot of travel at this time of year because of the Lochaber and Argyll drama work, my expenses should be a little lower than usual since Dunoon took care of their own play. However, I had to take the Corran Ferry a few times dues to roadworks between Lochailort and Acharacle, and this may raise costs slightly. There have been other savings this year, for example in terms of recycling of Meanbh-chuileag props, and there should be savings with the Sgoil Shamhraidh, since participants are paying their own travel and we are cutting back on tutors.
1.10 Continue to maximise income from sales of publications We have some Biorachan Beag agus Biorachan Mòr books left, and we have an ongoing programme of trying to get rid of them!
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information I contribute to every edition of Faileas, and I also occasionally contribute to other groups' newsletters.
1.16 Expand partnership opportunities with other arts and Gaelic organisations, as well as public bodies, and continue to work with existing forums, including the Scottish Traditional Music Forum. (CS) As will be seen below, there is an ongoing link with Stòrlann. We are involved in preparing a drama teaching resource with them, and we worked closely with them on the Meanbh-chuileag tour. We will be working with MG ALBA to bring the Sgoil Shamhraidh to a close – an event which will take place in their studio again. The NTS link is still ongoing, although we have not been asked to undertake any Culloden tours for a while.
2.2 Continue to implement Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy through services
76 offered to all the Fèisean through its staff and special projects as appropriate. I follow the policy in all my work, and I am involved in several projects to implement it, such as Sgioba G. I was also involved in the production of a Gaelic booklet for Fèis Rois. I will also probably be involved in implementing Gaelic tutor training.
2.2 Provide support for Fèisean with Gaelic language activities utilising our G-Team. (CS) As stated above, I am involved in the implementation of Sgioba G, and the preparation of materials for it. I was involved in delivering Sgioba G at Fèis Lochabair, which was very successful, and I prepared materials for Fèis Cheann Loch Goibhle, and there is more preparation work to be done for Fèis Bharraigh, Fèis an Iar Thuath and Fèis Dhùn Èideann. I am always on the lookout for new materials for Sgioba G, and many of the games in use just now were developed for the pilot project I undertook a few months ago in Highland schools which saw children being taught some basic Gaelic in a fun and fast-paced way.
2.4 Ensure commitment to Gaelic in new Fèisean. I am generally involved in the production of Gaelic support materials for new Fèisean, and have on several occasions given advice on policy matters.
2.5 Continue development of Gaelic drama activities including a Gaelic Drama Summer School and, if funding allows, touring by the Meanbh-Chuileag theatre- in-education group (CS) Four Sgoiltean Samhraidh have taken place since FnG took over the initiative, and since then 70 teenagers have used the service. In 2011 the number of participants rose by 50% compared to the previous year, but although most of these have indicated that they would like to return in 2012 (between 2 and 13 July), we only have 10 applicants at this stage. We have extended the deadline and have done more advertising so hopefully this number will increase. We will look at the reasons for this once the Sgoil is over.
In order to focus closer on particular skills and to save money we have are cutting our overall tutor level by 1.5 this year. We are also asking parents to pay for their children's travel.
Meanbh-chuileag carried out work in Kintyre and Arran at the end of the year (although the preparation was done, we had to change plans at the last minute due to personal issues that arose on my part; the schools instead received a Gaelic workshop, and we can use the play at a later date).
Our panto – Flòraidh agus Oidhche nam Bannag – was on the road the week of 12 December. It was taken round 8 Highland primaries, and although we had to change a couple of things at short notice due to the weather (and schools losing their roofs etc!) it was very successful. Meanbh-chuileag, with Daibhidh Walker, Debbie MacKay and Sean MacLeod acting this year, was on the road this year with the play MacCodruim nan Ròn. This tour – which ran between January and March and saw the group visit the majority of GM schools – was organised in conjunction with Stòrlann (see below). There will be more TIE work in EM schools after the summer holidays.
2.5 Six weeks of schools touring to be carried out by Meanbh-Chuileag. (BnG) As mentioned above, Meanbh-chuileag worked closely with Stòrlann to produce 2012's major tour. We used the traditional story MacCodruim nan Ròn from the new book Mar a chuala mise e, which was published last year. This story was used as the basis for what was possibly Meanbh-chuileag's most successful play, and which was toured extensively around ten years ago. The tour ran between January and March, and in addition to the play, teachers' resources are in preparation. I presented a workshop at the Stòrlann annual conference in September on the subject of how to take a traditional story and convert it into drama. Alasdair Allan MSP came to see the play in Bishopbriggs, accompanied by representatives from Stòrlann and Irish educational groups.
2.5 At least 80 Gaelic drama workshops to be supported (BnG) Workshops have been carried out in Uist, and are ongoing in Skye and Lewis and Harris. I personally carried out around 30 workshops in Lochaber and Argyll schools as part of the annual drama Fèis,
77 which culminated in a fantastic afternoon in the Corran Halls on 1 May. This was the busiest day yet, with 7 schools and 11 plays. With numbers like this we may have to look at splitting the performance day into regions next year, since it was a long afternoon, although pupils seemed to enjoy it. I adopted a new approach this year in terms of preparation; in some schools we used improvisation instead of scripts, since this obviously is more beneficial in terms of language. BBC Alba were in attendance and a news piece appeared on an Latha.
We have tried to establish two drama clubs in Lochaber. The Lochaber High School club was established in October, but numbers fell steadily and it was not continued after Christmas. We started a club in Mallaig in February, but although around seven or eight indicated they would attend, we only had two on the first day and none on subsequent days. This has been very disappointing, but we will look at it again next term.
2.5 Continue to run a series of Gaelic drama Fèisean (CS) As stated above, work has been done in Lochaber and Argyll, Uist, Skye, and work is ongoing in Lewis and Harris. The Lochaber and Argyll project is the only one with a performance element, which was very successful.
2.5 Stage an annual Fèis Drama Summer School and work towards an agreement with MG Alba for the further professional development of ‘graduates’ (HIE) The final performances of SSD2011 were held in partnership with MG ALBA in their studio in Sleat. This evening was very successful, with a good audience, and the facilities were perfect for this kind of event. We will be using the studio again this year.
2.5 At least 20 Gaelic-speaking participants to take part in Sgoil Shamhraidh Dhràma 2011. (BnG) We had 24 young actors at SSD2011 – an increase of 50% on last year. The audience was about 100 – an increase of 185% on previous years. This confirms that it made sense to move the evening out of Portree. We are aiming at similar numbers for this year.
2.13 Continue to support activities for teenagers The Sgoil Shamhraidh is the main teenage event I am involved in (see above). Also see above for information on the drama clubs.
3.4 Other formal educational work As stated above, we are involved in projects in primaries and secondaries across Scotland, most connected to drama teaching. The Stòrlann partnership will be very useful in terms of building links with schools and other groups. I undertook work in Lochaber, Wester Ross and Inverness-shire schools giving pupils a chance to learn a little Gaelic, and most teachers have indicated that they would like to carry on with projects like this. There is also demand for similar projects in Argyll, and I have discussed the prospect of starting similar schemes in Perth and Kinross with their Gaelic officer.
Ainm Angus Macleod Dreuchd Drama Officer
Gnìomh/Toradh Adhartas
1.1 Continue to support and develop individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice (SAC) Fèis Thrèanaidh Fèisean nan Gàidheal As part of Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s training weekend in March i taught three Gaelic classes for learners on Saturday 10/03/12.
1.16 Networking
78 Expand, wherever possible, partnership opportunities with other organisations both within and out with the Gaelic community, and continue to work with existing forums. (SAC)
Sradagan Phort Rìgh Following a request from Sradagan Phort Rìgh i provided a drama session in February and March for P1-P3 and another session for P4-P7. The sessions were held while working in Skye and Lochalsh delivering ‘Sgilean Dràma’ to primary schools in the area on the 20th and 21st of February and the 19th of March. If other opportunities arise before the school summer holidays Sradagan Phort Rìgh will be contacted to organise another drama session.
Gaelic Club – Portree High School Portree High School’s Gaelic department have set up an after school youth club called ‘Cleas’ for pupils with Gaelic. They have timetable of different activities each week and i had the opportunity to visit them and provide a Gaelic medium drama session for around 10 pupils on the 19th of March. ‘Cleas’ would welcome me to visit with drama workshops if i plan to be on the island again with ‘Sgilean Dràma’ or other projects.
Eden Court (Dingwall Academy & Inverness Royal Academy) With support from Eden Court their Gaelic Drama worker Roddy Nicolson, the establishment of Gaelic Drama After-School Clubs for High School pupils from the Dingwall and Inverness area is planned.
Highland Council (Dingwall Academy & Inverness Royal Academy) Dolina Grant, Highland Council’s Gaelic Community Officer for the Inverness area, is able to support Fèisean nan Gàidheal and Eden Court in their current efforts to set up after school Gaelic Drama clubs for secondary pupils in the Inverness and Dingwall area. Dolina is also involved in organising the Highland Council’s annual timetable of Gaelic medium activites during the last three weeks of the summer holidays which cater for children aged between 4 and 16 years old.
Storlann The dramatisation of a several stories from Storlann’s ‘Mar a chuala mis’ e’ childrens story book is in progress. A ‘legacy’ resource which will benefit both teachers and pupils is also in production. Teaching resources will be prepared and provided by Fèisean nan Gàidheal with support from Storlann.
1.21 Website and ICT www.feisean.org Provision of content highlighting FnG news and drama projects is ongoing. www.facebook.com/feisean Producing news stories for Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Facebook page.
2 New Developments 2.5 Development of Gaelic Drama - Continue to run a series of Gaelic drama Fèisean (SAC)
The Fèisean nan Gàidheal drama team are in the process of providing a new drama service for Gaelic Medium Primary Schools in Lochaber, Skye & Lochalsh, Uist and Lewis and Harris. The ‘Sgilean Dràma’ project consists of a series of workshops to be delivered regularly throughout the year and see participating pupils receive tuition in a wide variety of drama skills through the medium of Gaelic . I began delivering workshops in the Skye and Lochalsh area at the beginning of September with seven Gaelic medium schools participating which involves workshops 9 groups.
79 The seventh session of the ‘Sgilean Dràma’ workshops was held in Skye and Lochalsh between the 19th and 22nd of March. At the beginning of the school year a total of 9 ‘Sgilean Dràma’ workshops were planned. Schools from the area will be contacted shortly to see if there is demand for more Sgilean Drama sessions before the end of the school year.
Debbie Mackay, who is self employed as a drama worker, is currently employed to deliver the ‘Sgilean Dràma’ in Lewis and Harris between April and May.
Feedback forms will be sent to participating schools at the end of the project. The projects in Skye and Lochalsh and Lewis and Harris will publicised on the Fèisean nan Gàidheal website. The schools project for the next year will be confirmed before the schools close in June.
Clore Duffield Foundation In April, an appliaction for funding was sent to Clore Duffield Foundation for ‘Sgilean Bàrdachd’ an idea for a new schools project to be delivered in Skye and Lochalsh during the 2012-2013 school year. The application was unsuccessful but another application is planned before their next deadline in October.
2.5 Stage an annual Fèis Drama Summer School with at least 17 Gaelic speaking participants and 100 audience members at the final performance evening. (BnG) The Gaelic Drama Summer School will start on Monday the 2nd of July. Following the format of the previous year, classes will be held in Portree and the performance night will be held on Thursday 12th July at Studio Fàs in Sleat.
As the number of applicants on the week of the closing date were low and updated application form was circulated with the later closing date of Friday 18th May. Applicants will be informed whether or not they are successful before Friday the 1st of June.
2.5 Meanbh-Chuileag MacCodruim nan Ròn Meanbh-chuileag, Feisean nan Gàidheal’s Theatre in Education company ,have been busy travelling around Scotland’s schools showcasing Gaelic folklore in the form of the play ‘MacCodruim nan Ròn’ or MacCodrum of the Seals. In partnership with Stòrlann Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig, the five week tour was launched in February infront of pupils from Meadowburn Primary, Bishopbriggs and special guest Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages. The play is based on an ancient tale common along many of the shorelines of Europe and which ties in with the story of the same name in Stòrlann's ‘Mar a chuala mise e’, a collection of traditional stories from Scotland and Ireland. Aimed at Gaelic speakers aged between P4-P7, the play was performed by Meanbh-chuileag with actors David Walker, Debbie Mackay and Sean Macleod. 46 schools saw the play with the final performance held in Rockfield Primary, Oban, on the 8 th of March. Schools were also offered a drama workshop, where they discussed the topics raised in the play and in groups had the opportunity to devise and perform their own alternative ending to the tale.
MacCodruim nan Ròn – Feedback Feedback forms were prepared and posted to participating schools. The feedback forms were returned along with a number of handmade thank you cards from pupils at Salen Primary and Craighill Primary which included drawings of the characters in the play.
2.13 Teenage provision within the Fèis movement After School Drama Clubs
80 Fèisean nan Gàidheal is in the process of establishing a number of after school drama clubs for teenage Gaelic speakers in Highland region. Fèisean nan Gàidheal intend to provide the support to establish a club which will be held regularly throughout the year.
Questionnaires were sent to the Gaelic departments at Lochaber High School, Portree High School, Dingwall Academy, Ullapool High School, Inverness Royal Academy, Millburn Academy, Culloden Academy and Charleston Academy.
In the Isle of Skye, on the 18th of March, an opportunity arose to provide an after school drama workshop as part of the timetable of activities organised by Gaelic club ‘Cleas’ organised by Portree High School’s Gaelic Department. ‘Cleas’ is held every week and more drama workshops would be welome if i have the opportunity to visit them again later in the year.
Dingwall Academy and Inverness Royal Academy will be contacted to find out whether a club similar to ‘Cleas’ could be established in their schools to give Fèisean nan Gàidheal the opportunity to support them.
Gaelic Drama Summer School 2012 The Drama Summer School is the biggest initiative we are currently involved with catering for teenagers.
The Gaelic Drama Summer School will start on Monday the 2nd of July. Following the format of the previous year, classes will be held in Portree and the performance night will be held on Thursday 12th July at Studio Fàs in Sleat.
As the number of applicants on the week of the closing date were low and updated application form was circulated with the later closing date of Friday 18th May. Applicants will be informed whether or not they are successful before Friday the 1st of June.
3.3 Gaelic Language work in schools As was explained above we are involved in numerous projects with schools throughout Scotland.
Name Nicola Simpson Position Senior Development Officer
Action/Outcome Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) Although there were no main Fèisean in my area over the Easter holidays, most are busy with follow- on activities and preparations for the Summer.
In February I assisted Fèis an Iar Thuath to make a successful application to Bòrd na Gàidhlig for a range of activities including a community event in the summer, a Gaelic immersion weekend for adult learners in the autumn and their main Fèis weekend next February.
As planned Fèis a’ Bhaile have run two successful group-work sessions and have two more planned for the coming months. They are hoping to hold an open evening in June which will provide an opportunity for participants to share what they have learnt at the group-work sessions and also their weekly drama classes. This event will also provide an opportunity for new participants and parents to come along and find out more about the Fèis.
I have worked closely with Fèis Spè over the last six months to produce a new development plan and projected budget for the next three years of their Fèisean a’ Mhonaidh Ruaidh project. We have been successful in securing funding from a number of sources and are working on further applications to
81 enable the continuation of their Development Officer posts. At the end of May the Fèis will say farewell to current Development Officer Judith Bullivant who has recently moved from the area. Judith’s input to the development over the last six years has been invaluable.
The committee of Fèis a’ Chaolais held their AGM on the 25th of February and new committee member Mary Bauld has taken over as chairperson. The Fèis will hold its last monthly workshop day for this session in June which will be followed by a community ceilidh.
Fèis Mhoireibh are gearing up for their annual Fèis weekend on the 26th and 27th of May following a number of taster sessions over the past few months.
Fèis Chataibh and Fèis na h-Òige will both hold their annual fèis week in the first week of the summer holidays. Both Fèisean have new committee members and I am working closely with them to organise their Fèisean.
Fèis na h-Òige will also be running their annual Piping and Drumming weekend in the summer holidays, thanks to a grant from the Bòrd na Gàidhlig Taic Freumhan Coimhearsnachd grant scheme. This year the event is moving to a new venue – Mallaig High School Hostel. It is hoped Fèis a’ Bhealaich will run in conjunction with the Sgoil Bhardachd in Applecross in the first week of July. I will be meeting with the Sgoil Bhardachd committee on return from my holiday at the end of this month to develop this project.
1.2 At least two people to be supported through the Work Placement/Graduate Placement schemes run by CnaG. (BnG) Calum Alex and I recently carried out interviews for the Sgeama Greis Gniomhachas and we are delighted Ellen MacDonald will be joining us for a ten week placement over the summer. Ellen has already been with us for three weeks of work experience.
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the development of our system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services (CS) I continue to support all Fèisean in my area and have regular contact with them and other Fèisean involved in running Ceilidh Trails. I keep in close contact with the development team and other staff to share information and resources and provide the best possible service to the Fèisean.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Western Isles (CnES) I continue to support the Western Isles Development Officer on a day to day basis.
1.4 Development Officer to be retained in Argyll & Bute Council area (A&BC) I continue to support the Argyll Development Officer on a day to day basis.
1.12 Support the establishment of new Fèisean where communities request assistance and funding allows (CS)
Fèis Spè have recently been successful in securing £10k from Perth and Kinross council to develop new Fèis activities in Rural Perthshire. I will work closely with their Development Officer to maximise this opportunity.
1.13 Continue to support individual Fèis projects such as Fèis Bharraigh and Feis Spè expansion activities (CS) Unfortunately Fèis Spè’s application to the Creative Scotland Culture & Tourism fund for the Cairngorms Ceilidh Trail was unsuccessful but their recent application to the Gannochy Trust has been successful and they have been offered a conditional donation of £10k. They have also secured smaller amounts from the EMS Trad Arts Small Grants Fund, The Co-op and the Scottish Community Foundation. They are also awaiting the outcome of an application to the Young Start fund.
1.15 Annual Training Programme
82 I attended the Annual Training Weekend in March and I have recently attended a seminar on Crowd Funding and Business Sponsorship run by Hi-Arts in association with Arts and Business Scotland.
1.16 Networking When possible, I have attended the informal Cofaidh & Comhradh sessions which are hosted by a different Gaelic organisation each time. Sessions have been hosted by ourselves, BnaG, Skills Development Scotland and Cli.
On the 17th of March I attended the quarterly TMC Partnership meeting hosted by Highlife Highland.
This week I will be meeting with Fiona Dalgety from Fèis Rois to look at opportunities for the Fèisean Ceilidh Trails to link in to the National Ceilidh Trail being run in partnership with the TMSA. We will also meet with Fèis Spè towards the end of this month to look at further opportunities for partnership working.
2.1 Ensure Gaelic is an integral part of all Fèisean, in line with fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy. (HC) The introduction of Gaelic workshops for tutors appears to be having a positive effect. Having spoken to a number of tutors recently, the feedback has been very positive and there a lot of people, some of whom have been tutoring for many years, making a real effort to increase their skills. Where possible I am encouraging my Fèisean to use Gaelic-speaking tutors.
2.6 In partnership with Fèisean, and with investment from LEADER, continue to support a network of Cèilidh Trails (CS) I continue to work closely with Anne to claim funding as appropriate and make sure all funding criteria are met.
The Ceilidh Trail training weeks – Fèis Alba will take place from the 2nd-6th and 9th-13th July in Plockton High School Hostel. There will be eight ceilidh trail groups from Skye, Lochaber, Argyll, Cairngorms, Sutherland, Stirling & Trossachs, Ross-shire and the National Trail participants.
All auditions for the Trails have now taken place and we have co-ordinators working in each area. I provide day to day support to the Co-ordinators and will be working with them in the coming weeks to produce publicity for this year’s tour.
This will be the final year of LEADER funding and new sources of funding will need to be secured if the Ceilidh Trails are to continue to run in the current format. I will be working on this in the coming months.
2.6 Expand and strengthen the Fèis Cèilidh Trails initiative, including coordinating and promoting the initiative nationally and internationally as a cultural tourism product (HIE) Fèis Fhoirt have been busy working on the new Stirling and Trossachs Ceilidh Trail and I am pleased to say that funding has been secured from the Lomond and Trossachs National Park in addition to Creative Scotland.
I am woring with the Camanachd Association to secure funding to take a group of sixteen Gaelic- speaking young people to the International Shinty/Hurling final in Ennis, Co. Clare in October this year and we are about to submit an application for Colmcille Funding. Working together provides both ourselves, and the Camanachd Association with much wider opportunities to promote ourselves locally, nationally and internationally.
3.6 Raise the profile of the Fèis movement through dedicated showcase events, and in other opportunities as they arise. (CS) The Cairngorms Ceilidh Trail have been invited to perform for the Queen at the Jubilee Garden Party at Balmoral in August. This is a fantastic opportunity Ceilidh Trail participants, who will be accompanied by Development Officers Caroline Sterritt and Judith Bullivant and Board-member Lynn
83 Donnelly.
3.8 Development of Blas – Celebrating the Highlands I continue to participate in the Blas action group to represent the Fèisean.
Name Maria MacInnes Position Lochaber Development Officer
Action/Outcome Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) I have regular contact with the eight Fèisean I support. I attended the Fèis events that took place in March and April.
• Fèis Òigridh na Mara held a successful Fèis event in March 2012, with fiddle and piping tuition. 29 participants took part in the ‘Fèis Day’. • Fèis Òigridh na Mara are working with Arisaig Games to hold an three-day event, aimed at older children in the area who will showcase their abilities at the Games itself, 23 - 25 July 2012. • Fèis Lochabair held their three Fèis Teaghlaich events which took place in Ballachulish, Fort William & Roybridge between February and March 2012. All events gave positive feedback. • Fèis Lochabair took place on 2 – 6 April 2012 in Lochaber High School. Around 120 participants took part in the week long Fèis and finished with a successful cèilidh on Friday afternoon. • Fèis Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu took place on 2 – 6 April 2012 in Hutchesons’ Junior Grammar School. Over 125 participants took part in the week long Fèis. • Fèis Lochabair, along with Angus Nicolson Trio band, hope to have a day of workshops in Lochaber High School for Intermediate – Advanced pupils, followed by a cèilidh and dance in Skippinish Cèilidh House. This event will take place on Saturday 23 June 2012.
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the development of our system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services (CS) I maintain regular contact with my Fèisean through email, phone-calls and text messaging, attend meetings regularly and help individual Fèisean with their needs as there first point of contact.
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information I regularly send emails to my Fèis committees, other local Arts organisations and local media with news and promoting events. I also regularly update the new Fèisean nan Gàidheal website with any Fèis news.
1.14 Inter-Fèis activities Fèisean Lochabair (Fèis Lochabair, Fèis nan Garbh Chrìochan, Fèis Òigridh na Mara, Fèis Eige) are looking to hold Fèis nan Deugairean this year again, after a successful Fèis in 2011, which took place in Fort William. Fèisean Lochabair are currently trying to source funding for this project, which would run during the Blas festival.
Fèisean Lochabair held their Cèilidh Trail auditions on 2 April 2012. There are 6 participants taking place in the band this year. Fiona McIntyre is the Fèisean Lochabair Coordinator this year and is currently planning the training dates and tour dates for the Cèilidh Trail.
1.16 Working with other Gaelic organisations, local authorities, community representatives and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to expand Iomairtean Gàidhlig (Gaelic Initiatives) and deliver the main aims of Ginealach Ùr na Gàidhlig (BnG) I regularly attend Iomairt meetings in Lochaber and Glasgow. I work closely with the Iomairt
84 Lochaber Development Officer on projects to promote Gaelic within the community. The Bòrd na Gàidhlig Early Years Development Officer and the Iomairt Lochaber Development Officer worked with Fèis Lochabair on the Fèis Teaghlaich projects.
1.21 Website and ICT I have received training on the use of the new Fèisean nan Gàidheal website and regularly update it with any news articles in relation to the Fèisean I support. I also update the Fèisean nan Gàidheal Facebook page with news updates.
2.1 Ensure Gaelic is an integral part of all Fèisean, in line with Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy. (HC) All the Fèisean that I support have successfully created a Gaelic Policy, in line with Fèisean nan Gàidheal Gaelic Policy, for their own Fèis, which has new aims and developments that they hope to meet within the year.
I am currently undertaking the Sgilean Sgriobhaidh online course from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, which ends in May 2012. This will improve my own Gaelic and therefore allow me to help Fèisean with their Gaelic Policies.
2.5 Development of Gaelic Drama Along with Dougie Beck, a Lochaber Drama Group had been created but due to lack of numbers, the Lochaber Drama Group has been postponed until August 2012. A Mallaig Drama Group started on 25 February, which consisted of fortnightly classes aimed at teenagers who were fluent or were learning Gaelic in the area but due to lack of numbers, the Mallaig Drama Group has been postponed until August 2012.
Mallaig Primary School and Acharacle Primary School both won ‘Funniest Act’ at the Drama Festival which took place in the Corran Halls, Oban on 1 May 2012.
2.13 Continue to support activities for teenagers Fèis nan Deugairean took place between 8 - 10 October 2011 in Lochaber High School, with 15 participants from the Lochaber area taking part. Due to the success of Fèis nan Deugairean in 2011, Fèisean Lochabair would like to run the event again in 2012 but to work alongside the Blas festival. With talented musicians taking part in Blas, Fèis nan Deugairean will have different tutors holding sessions/classes for participants during the day. Fèis Lochabair applied to Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s Taic Freumhan Coimhearsnachd for a grant towards Fèis na Deugairean 2012 but were unfortunately unsuccessful. Fèisean Lochabair are currently trying to source funding for the Fèis.
2.6 Continuing support for Fèis Cèilidh Trails The Lochaber Fèisean Cèilidh Trail auditions took place on 2 April 2012 in Lochaber High School with Nicola Simpson, Catriona MacIntyre and Iain MacFarlane attending the interviews. Five successful candidates were chosen from the Lochaber area (two from Ballachulish, two from Mallaig, one from Fort Augustus) and a box player from Fèis Spe Cèilidh Trail. Fiona McIntyre is the Lochaber Fèisean Cèilidh Trail Coordinator this year and is currently planning tour dates and training weekends.
Name Jenna Morrison Position Western Isles & Skye Development officer
Action/Outcome Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 40 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. (CS) I continue to support six member Fèisean in the Western Isles and three in Skye and Lochalsh.
I am working closely with Colin George Morrison, Iomairt officer for the Greater Broadbay area of
85 Lewis, to re-establish the Point Fèis. A new committee was appointed in March and Fèisean nan Gàidheal has advised the group to submit a new application for membership before the next board meeting. I have completed an application for funding to the Scottish Community Foundation for £2,000 towards their main Fèis to be held in August.
Fèis Taigh Dhonnchaidh held a successful week of tuition in the Easter holidays with seventeen participants attending the main Fèis. With support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig (£600) , the committee set up Fèis Nis, a morning club for children in P1 – P3. Twelve participants attended this year. The committee hope to run this again next year. This year, FTD organised a combined children’s concert and family cèilidh in Borve Hall on Saturday evening which replaced the children’s Friday afternoon concert. This allowed for more tuition on Friday and the larger venue meant that more people could be accommodated.
In April Fèis an Earraich held their annual week of tuition with just over 150 children taking part. Participants were offered a new media course this year, supported by Bòrd na Gàidhlig (£2,200) and delivered by Sealladh TV. Tutors were also offered Ulpan taster sessions to enhance their language skills.
Fèis Thròndairnis (£3,900) and Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich (£2, 140) have also secured funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig to run the projects detailed my last report.
I submitted a successful application to Enterprise Music Scotland on behalf of Fèis Bharraigh to support their additional Mod workshops to help local children prepare for competitions at local and National level. They have received £1,000 towards this development.
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the development of our system of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services (CS) I continue to maintain regular contact with all member Fèisean, ensuring that they are kept up-to- date with changes or developments within the organisation and are fully informed of upcoming training opportunities. I am in the process of setting up Fèis meetings to be held in May and June.
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information I continue to produce news articles for Faileas and upload news onto the website regularly. Also, I continue to distribute Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s new Gaelic marketing material at Fèisean and other suitable events.
1.12 Support the establishment of new Fèisean where communities request assistance and funding allows (CS) With assistance from Colin George Morrison, I continue to support the re-establishment of Fèis an Rubha. I attended the AGM in March and have completed an application for funding to support this year’s Fèis. I have also distributed Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s policies to each member of the committee.
1.15 Annual Training Programme I attended the annual training weekend in March.
1.16 Working with other Gaelic organisations, local authorities, community representatives and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to expand Iomairtean Gàidhlig (Gaelic Initiatives) and deliver the main aims of Ginealach Ùr na Gàidhlig (BnG) I continue to work closely with the Iomairt officers in Lewis & Uist to support and develop new or existing projects. On behalf of Fèisean nan Gaidheal, I have attended meetings to support the new Gaelic Plan for Shawbost which is being developed by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Marina Murray, Iomairt officer for the Westside.
86 I have been invited to Ravenspoint to discuss whether there might be scope for adding more of the activities which the Fèis movement encourages to the Gaelic learner courses that are currently being run within the South Lochs community. A visit has been arranged for Wednesday 16 May.
I represented FnG at the Western Isles Gaelic Arts Forum on 24 April.
1.21 Website and ICT I continue to add new information to Fèis pages and upload news articles and photos regularly.
2.1 Ensure Gaelic is an integral part of all Fèisean, in line with fèisean nan Gàidheal’s Gaelic Policy. (HC) This Easter, Fèis an Earraich held taster sessions using Ulpan material to encourage tutors to learn Gaelic during Fèis week. Fèis an Rubha are considering the possibility of running an Ulpan course for parents and tutors during Fèis week as well.
2.6 In partnership with Fèisean, and with investment from LEADER, continue to support a network of Cèilidh Trails (CS) Fèis an Earraich held their Ceilidh Trail auditions on Wednesday during Fèis week. Fourteen auditioned this year and seven young musicians have been employed to take part in Ceilear this year. Former Ceilear participant, Murdo Cameron, will act as the co-ordinator for the second year running. I continue to support the Fèis and liaise with Nicola regularly to keep her informed of progress.
Name Christine MacIntyre Position Development Officer Argyll
Action/Outcome Service Delivery Progress
1.1 Continue to support and develop at least 9 individual Fèisean, widening their range of activities and establishing best working practice. February Meeting with Head of Library West Dumbarton Council re change over of fèis Meeting with Lochgoilhead fèis Meeting with Iomairt Ile Meeting with David MacIntyre re collaboration with An Comun Gaidhleach March Development Officer meeting Training weekend Inverness April Fèis Latharna meeting Ceildih Trail Auditions Ceilidh Trail meeting Meeting with new Sandbank Primary Head May Argyll Drama Day Oban
1.1 Continue to operate as an organisation striving for excellence in delivery of services and projects, with sound governance and general working practices. All Argyll fèisean grant applications completed Fèis Arainn Young Start Application completed New Projects Development discussion with Fèis Mhuile New Project Development discussion with Fèis Dhun Omhain
1.3 Grant aid Fèisean in Argyll & Bute Council area All Argyll fèisean grant forms processed In liaison with local Argyll & Bute Council officer re regular Gaelic updates and developments
1.4 Continue with excellent support mechanisms for individual Fèisean through the
87 development of our systems of Lead Officers, offering one point of access to local Fèisean in accessing Fèisean nan Gàidheal services I have had regular meetings with all my fèisean, I keep them updated regarding funding, projects and tutor sourcing and disclosure and fund raising events
Policies are made as easy as possible for volunteers to deliver I ensure that all my fèisean use as much Gaelic as possible in their written materials and I have provided them with a list of Gaelic classes in their areas. I make sure that all fèisean keep up to date with FNG childcare policies and that they are in accordance with National guidelines
Continuation of Annualised Hours scheme I assist my fèisean to keep on top of their annualised hours and ensure their claims for annualised hours are up to date
1.11 Production and distribution of regular news and other information I send out frequent updates to all Argyll fèisean via email and newsletters and continue to support the production of Faileas.
1.13 Continue to support individual Fèis projects A new application on behalf of Fèis Arainn submitted to The Big Lottery. In talks with Fèuis Mhile re enhanced fèis activities in conjunction with An Tobar after their successful Film making workshop Held a series of meetings in Dunoon with Sandbank GMU and preparations for this year’s National Mod in Dunoon along with several other projects they have in the pipeline.
1.16 Working with other Gaelic organisations, local authorities, community representatives and Bord na Gàidhlig to expand Iomairtean Gàidhlig and deliver the main aims of Ginealach Ur na Gàidhlig. I am awaiting feedback from my meeting with David MacIntyre re more collaborative work with An Commun Gaidheleach. I am working with an Officer in Lomond & Trossachs re a joint performance by Argyll Ceilidh Trailers and Stirling Ceilidh Trailers Looking at developing some fèis activities with the Dunollie 45 Museum in Oban Working with Maolcholm Scott re the development of Slighe Chalum Cille in Argyll and what the fèis can bring to it
1.17 In partnership with Creative Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Bòrd na Gàidhlig, FNG will continue to play a key role in the continuing development of traditional music and Gaelic arts in Scotland The Argyll Ceilidh Trail Auditions were held in April and there is a full compliment of musicians all ready to participate in this year’s Argyll Trail and bookings have already been secured.
1.2 Website and ICT Web site updating ongoing
2 New Developments
2.1 Ensure Gaelic is an integral part of all Fèisean, in line with fèisean nan Gàidheal's Gaelic Policy All Argyll fèisean are now familiar with what is required regarding FNG’s Gaelic Development Plan
2.2 Continue to implement Fèisean nan Gàidheal's Gaelic Policy through services offered to all the Fèisean through its staff and special projects as appropriate All fèis tutors on my data base regularly receive updates of available Gaelic learning opportunities
2.3 Regular review of progress with implementation of Gaelic Policy I have been updating all my fèisean regarding any other innovative Gaelic language developments there
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2.4 Establish family based Fèis activities to strengthen the use of Gaelic The experimental “House Concert” held in Ardrishaig was very successful and I hope to have another one soon. It raised the profile of Gaelic song to many who previously would not have attended anything containing Gaelic music and they were very receptive to future concerts of this type
2.6 In partnership with Fèisean, and with investment from LEADER, continue to support a network of Ceilidh Trails Last year the Argyll Ceilidh trailers held some workshops while they were on Tiree. As a result of this, three of this year’s participants are from Tiree so a good success story there. This year’s Ceilidh Trail bookings are well under way with some negotiations ongoing regarding possible sponsorship
2.13 Continue to support activities for teenagers This is still an area of concern but I am working with an outfit from Mull with a view to extending film & TV workshops. Many of the able to feed into the Drama summer school from Argyll are still on the young side but I am hoping to explore more innovative ways of providing activities that will be attractive to teenagers.
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