THE CROFTER rooted in our community The journal of the Scottish Crofting Foundation, the only member-led organisation dedicated to the promotion of crofting and the largest association of small-scale food producers in the UK JUNE 2009 Number 83 Commission releases LFA ideas eform of the so-called Intermediate LFA measure – the Rone currently used for support to areas with natural handicaps here in Scotland – draws closer with the publication by the European Commission of a communication on how to improve the targeting of the measure. Draft Crofting Reform Standard delimitation criteria Responding to stinging criticism from the court of auditors and following on Bill imminent from a lengthy period of discussion and rofters will be waiting with much anticipation for the publication of the Government’s consultation, the Commission proposes forthcoming consultation paper on the draft Crofting Reform Bill. The consultation paper the standardisation of criteria for the Cwas to be published as The Crofter went to press and there will be three months for delimitation of LFAs, to be called Natural crofters and the wider public to comment. Handicap Areas (NHAs) from now on. Last October, the Government issued a formal response to the final report of the Committee All socio-economic criteria have been of Inquiry on Crofting (Shucksmith report). They said they would publish a draft bill to make the dropped – only soil, climate and terrain necessary changes needed to the Crofting Acts. Once the bill is published the Government will can now be used to justify support through be organising a series of public meetings across the crofting counties to discuss the proposals the measure and the thresholds for these with crofters. are, it is proposed, to be set at a EU level. We expect the bill to contain proposals in five key areas. The possibilities of difficulties arising First, the Government said it would reconstitute the Crofters Commission to make it more from this major change is, we understand, democratic, transparent and accountable. It will set out to create up to six area committees the main reason why the Commission of the Crofters Commission covering (1) Orkney and Shetland (2) Western Isles (3) Northern has published a communication before Highlands (4) Southern Highlands (5) Skye, Lochalsh and Lochaber and (6) Argyll, Bute, Arran moving to issuing legislative proposals. and Cumbrae. The Government response suggests that these area committees will have a They are asking member states to trial majority of elected crofters on them and will exercise all the Commission’s powers in the local the suggested criteria and thresholds and areas, with appeals going to the full Commission in Inverness. We shall be looking closely at are promising to take note of the resulting the role the Government sees for crofting assessors and whether the areas covered by the new feedback. committees make sense. Seen from a Scottish perspective, it is Another area that would require changes to legislation is the Government’s proposals for inconceivable that most of the current LFA a new Register of Crofts. The SCF has long campaigned for a new map-based register that will fall foul of the proposals, with areas would help to reduce the number of disputes over the boundaries of crofts. The Committee of with slopes >15% (1 in 7) and areas with Inquiry proposed that the keeper of the Registers of Scotland should be responsible for such poorly drained soils and sandy soils all Continued on page 3 being eligible. On the other hand, the criteria are explicitly biased towards difficulties posed for crop production, meaning that it is possible at least that some areas which are extremely exposed but otherwise potentially productive are excluded. Peripherality dropped A major concern, but one long since clearly flagged, is the dropping of distance to market – peripherality – as a recognised Continued on page 3

Inside this issue • Rural development • Crofting heroes • SCF AGM • Askernish golf course • Woodland crofts • Crofter’s wife column

And much more … 2 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 Message from the chair... realise the input of farmers and help redress the fall in stock crofters in providing wholesome numbers and maintain buyers’ healthy food while maintaining the interest at sales. environment, unfettered by crass At our recent AGM in Lewis legislation like the iniquitous EID we were delighted to have which is unnecessary, unworkable Chloe Randall, estate manager and unwanted. Double tagging with Dunlossit Estate as our is more than robust and more guest speaker. She was truly acceptable. inspirational. They have built With European elections S kye I mages their own abattoir and the highly s I watched my last looming agriculture will successful Meat Islay branding lamb being born, rising be a key issue. My fellow sustainable without any real initiative. It was a meeting I Aunsteadily to his feet and director Marina Dennis had indication of what might replace found to be so eminently suited reaching for succour, all the long the opportunity to meet the it. There is a lot of lobbying to for crofters who so often bemoan hours spent over an arduous six European Commissioner for ensure Government are under our lack of opportunity. Book week period, (while being one of agriculture Marian Fischer Boel no illusions as to the threats and her for your next conference, my best lambings) has left me and left her in no doubt of the severity of our situation and SCF she will enthuse even the most tired and like the last lamb born worries that crofters have with more than plays its part in any pessimistic among you. apprehensive for the future. the present raft of legislation ongoing discussions. If, like me, you are suffering While finishers have enjoyed which emanate from people who While we have representation from the rigours of an extended phenomenal prices for cattle do not understand crofting’s on the bull hire review group lambing, any thoughts of a and sheep recently, will this contribution. She appeared to it should not be forgotten that change of vocation are soon translate to better store sales? be sympathetic to our viewpoint. this is only one element of a dispelled by the sight of healthy Will it help to slow down the Scottish Government Cabinet livestock improvement scheme. lambs frolicking in a good flush dramatic fall in numbers being Secretary Richard Lochhead was The ram hire/purchase and ewe of early grass and – oh yes, witnessed across the crofting quite candid at a recent meeting lamb retention are essential some badly needed sleep and counties in particular? that the present historical basis components in ensuring quality, those jobs I promised my wife I We call on Government to for calculating SFP will not be high health status which can would do! Scottish Crofting Foundation policy updates Bull scheme NFUS want this but the chief vet is secretary for rural affairs There are some concerns In the last issue we reported saying that the advantages do not Richard Lochhead by mid-May. that the criteria proposed that the bull scheme (the crofters’ justify the additional costs – costs The SCF put in a contribution relate mainly to conditions cattle improvement scheme) that will of course be passed on to and this is reported elsewhere which pose difficulties for the had won a reprieve. Since then the primary producer. in this issue. growing of crops and that things a review group has been set like exposure, which cause up headed by Sarah Allen, ex- problems for livestock, might not Crofters Commissioner and be properly covered. However, agricultural consultant. SCF will this exercise enables as many be represented on the review of these concerns as possible to group by our director Marina be addressed before legislation Dennis. The group will report back is brought forward. in the autumn. SCF regrets the Commission’s decision to drop Blue tongue distance or peripherality as a The compulsory vaccination criterion. However, this has programme is near completion with been clearly flagged up for the Scottish Government claiming some time and we call on the a 71% vaccination coverage and Scottish Government to take expecting 80-90% by the end of immediate action to draw up June. This sounds fine, but a note proposals for the redefinition of of caution. Is it not actually that 5.7 islands as areas with ‘specific million doses have been dispensed handicaps’ and of other parts out of 8 million and that 71% of the EID Crofting reform of upland Scotland to be doses ordered have been dispensed, The campaign to stop the As reported on pages 1 and defined as ‘mountain’ to reflect not that 71% of animals have been introduction of compulsory use of 3, the draft crofting bill was production handicaps. vaccinated? For example, if you electronic identification for sheep released recently. We also call on the Scottish have 20 lambs but need to buy a failed to get enough backing to stop Government to take this enforced LFASS 50ml bottle (as this is the smallest this from going through the meeting reform of LFA delimitation The European Commission Merial size) then 30 doses are of ministers in Brussels. As it stands to address the fundamental has released a statement on wasted. The Scottish Government’s EID will therefore be introduced problem with the current its intentions to engage with failure to order smaller bottles from next January, but we will continue scheme – that less handicapped member states in field testing Merial will result in a huge amount to urge the UK Government to use producers receive the highest the proposed new criteria for the of waste among smaller producers. any flexibility it has to get exemption payments. delimitation of the Less Favoured But then the Scottish Government for small-scale producers, as this Those who deliver on the Areas of Europe, which the SCF must know the actual vaccination regime could be catastrophic. objectives of sustainable figures from the vaccination forms? welcomed. Support to areas with land management, such as As this is written, we don’t know SRDP natural handicaps is vital to the maintaining High Nature Value yet whether Scotland will be declared A review of the Scotland future delivery of public goods farmland through agricultural a blue zone or not. (A blue zone is Rural Development Programme by crofters and other producers activity should be the ones who where livestock is vaccinated when is underway, the results of in Scotland’s mountains and benefit from LFA support as the no disease is present). Apparently which will go to the cabinet islands. regulation intended. THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 3 Commission releases LFA ideas Draft Crofting Continued from page 1 Reform Bill physical handicap. The logic seems to be highest payments under the present that the costs associated with distance arrangements. imminent can be overcome through appropriate Continued from page 1 fiscal measures or public support – the Future of the measure One very positive, albeit implied, costs of ferry transport, for example a register and the Government accepted this message in the communication is – while the market is itself a very fluid recommendation. Any duty that would give that the NHA measure is here to stay concept. the Registers of Scotland responsibility for for the foreseeable future. The new Arguments that other costs, such creating a new Register of Crofts that is more arrangements are to be introduced in as those imposed by tachograph or akin to the Land Register would inevitably working time or animal transport rules 2014, as part of the yet-to-be-designed require changes to the Crofters Acts. or the uncertainties and costs of sailings next incarnation of the CAP. The third area that would require changes cancelled due to weather, are real and Difficult issues remain to be to legislation is the Government’s proposals are in addition to the cost of the transport addressed. For us in Scotland, how the to give crofters the ability to take a mortgage itself have fallen on deaf ears. payment is calculated and whether it on croft tenancies. This is intended to enable Nevertheless, the solution is clear is directly proportional to handicap is a crofters to borrow money from lending – Scotland needs to bring forward basic question, but perhaps more one of institutions using their tenancy as collateral. proposals to move all islands (in the opening eyes in the Rue de la Loi! Historically, the inability to take a standard sense of areas whose main route to More fundamental still is the very security over a croft and the conditions of market is by sea) into the ‘Areas with purpose and logic of the NHA measure. tenure have prevented banks and building societies from making loans to crofters on a similar basis to everyone else. We shall be interested to see how the Government will seek to address this issue in its forthcoming legislation. The Government response to the Committee of Inquiry rejected the proposal for burdens. But they did agree to look at other options for addressing absenteeism and neglect, as well as options for preventing the damage to crofting resulting from the speculative value of croft land associated with inappropriate housing developments. So we expect the draft bill to contain some form of occupancy requirement for housing built on decrofted land. We also think the Government is likely Much less less favoured areas to tighten up the existing requirement to be Snow in October and bad weather in November has meant lower lambing percentages in some resident on or near the croft, and to put the parts of the country. And now we have snow on the hills in May holding back the grass. Bad for land to some form of productive use, for tenant crofters and their livestock but strong support for the re-distribution of LFA money to the parts crofters and owner-occupiers alike. of the country that really need it. Details of the consultation paper and the proposed public meetings were not available at the time of going to print but the SCF will Specific Handicaps’ category so that it can How does it fit in with the SFP? In provide these on our website once they lawfully deliver the requisite support. particular, how do the requirements of are known. These proposals are likely to be cross-compliance and of any NHA measure significant for the future of crofting and the Targeting within the LFA fit together? How can minimal activity be Stressing the changed rationale of SCF encourages all of its members to take incorporated into cross-compliance without part in this consultation exercise. the NHA since 2005, when it was made causing insurmountable trouble at the explicitly focussed on sustainable land word word word word word word word word world trade talks? word word word word word word word word management, the Commission also flags What indeed is the justification for its intention to tighten eligibility rules word word word word word word word word support, when the EU is meant to be word word word word word word word word within the NHA and in particular to oblige following the Lisbon agenda of being word word word word word word word word member states to exclude applicants who competitive in a world free market? word word word word word word word word have managed to overcome the natural Crofters should not fear these word word word word word word word word handicap from payment. arguments – their role in delivering the word word word word word word word word Examples given are farms which are public goods is clear and can be further word word word word word word word word on drained former wetlands or which use strengthened by better targeting and word word word word word word word word irrigation in otherwise dry zones. From a proper calculation of support payments. word word word word word word word word Scottish perspective the obvious tool to Notice who is scaremongering about word word word word word word reflect this principle is stocking density. the current proposals – those that benefit Some might think that it would also from the status quo but who contribute be reasonable to say that intensity of little to the maintenance of High Nature management is a better guideline as Value farmland or any of the other to the suitability of the Commission objectives of Axis II. delimitation criteria than the precise match As Norman Leask says elsewhere to the current LFA boundary. in this edition, time to take the fight to Crofters will have spotted the irony Brussels. Bring the lights out from under that those producers who will be most the bushels! worried about a change in the boundary Gwyn Jones are the very people who receive the Consultant find us on-line atwww.crofting.org S kye I mages 4 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 RURAL DEVELOPMENT Scottish Rural Development Programme review ince its inception the Scotland Rural Development Programme is that the people on the ground do not know how to manage land (SRDP) has come under a great deal of criticism for not being without close supervision. This is in complete contrast to the days Seffective or accessible. There has recently been a review carried when we had livestock and cropping subsidies when it was accepted out by the agricultural consultant Peter Cook and the report should be that applicants were capable of good livestock and crop husbandry with the cabinet secretary this month. without detailed prescription of how they should carry that out. Retain the entitlement of holdings of like status to CCAGS or The SCF contribution to the consultation included the following main • replace with a similar level of support through the LMO. These folk are points. Our full submission can be viewed on our website. just as vital to the survival of our fragile communities as are registered • The SRDP has been a disaster – the idea of the provision of a crofters in other areas and their presence on the land ensures that the one-stop-shop type of grant service was, in principle, a good one but land stays productive. dumping the running of the scheme on already-busy case officers has • Encourage and support the retention of indigenous breeds on the seen little or no support to clients as the case officers have no time to land. They have characteristics which may well prove vital for food speak to or guide applicants and this has led to frustration, delay and security in a future that will need to cope with climate change and poor service to applicants. peak oil amongst other challenges. • Uptake by crofters is very low it would be useful to know exactly • Encourage the use of renewable energy for the entire croft or farm how many registered crofters have applied and how many have been steading including the dwelling house. Establish measures to help crofters successful. The general opinion is that the SRDP does not offer much and like status folk reduce their carbon emissions on their holdings. for crofters, is very difficult (and in many instances impossible) to • Recognise the carbon sequestration achieved by extensive access, is inconsistent and is overly complicated. management of the land. • Making it web-based excludes many and it is very difficult even for • The website seems to change quite regularly and with no warning those who have broadband and are web literate. or explanation. Thus, you can find yourself no longer eligible through no • Crofters say there is little in the LMO menu that is attractive to the fault of your own for an option you have applied for. small producer and that RP is dominated by bigger businesses that • If community groups or individuals seeking capital project assistance can afford to pay agents to apply for them. Without agents it seems or training wish to access SRDP they need to fill out a land and business impossible to apply. change form to access a BRN. This is an extremely complicated and • Crofters would like to see a simplified fast track route for smaller clumsy method. If they have no land why are they filling in a form which applications – which will take paper applications. only makes sense if you have land? • As LFASS is part of SRDP we must insist on Scotland having a • Minimising impacts – you can score high if your project has a mountain and specific handicap category to ensure the continuation negative impact and you have moved to minimalise it by taking expert of LFASS beyond 2013. advice but if your project has no negative impact then you score low. • Collaboration should get many more points in any schemes even Soon every applicant will be planning to stick a big effluent pipe from if the person you are collaborating with is not part of the scheme. the site of their project, discharging raw sewage into a nearby stream Collaboration is what makes the crofting counties work. and then suddenly decide that they will remove this pipe following • A cropping grant is needed – say maximum of two hectares or so. advice from SEPA! • The scheme is severely limited for small producers. That is • This upside-down logic also applies to grazing cattle – where because it is based on land areas and not on expected net public the carrying capacity of the land is ignored and applicants are benefit. In other words a small area can provide a significant public constrained to not let stocking density fall below a minimum but can benefit whereas a large area can take on a monoculture look but the increase to over-grazing! Surely, again, rules made up by people scheme does not recognise that. who have little experience. • The thinking behind the scheme is about improvement of land • Projects are submitted and applicants told that they can get no whereas it should be about enhancement of people as skilled stewards management costs – ie they design, implement and report on a project of the land. The whole scheme is far too prescriptive and the inference that they get no payment for at all. Where is the incentive? Scottish Rural Development

ural development development of course covers place to live and thrive. is the overall theme just about everything in our lives. Rural communities always Rof this issue of The The provision of services such were land-based with agriculture Crofter and is a pertinent topic as schooling and health care, being at their core. But with building community centres increased importation of in Scotland with many aspects The interest in food ethics can and transport links, providing food, agriculture’s role has being in focus recently. renew the status of home- jobs and houses, protecting the diminished, there being rural For example – the Scotland grown food and food production environment and growing food communities and people within Rural Development Programme can be a major part of the future are some parts, all with the focus these communities having review, the consultation on of economic development on the particular circumstances nothing to do with agriculture or the Common Agriculture again, as well as being key to of our rural spaces. the environment. Policy implementation, the environmental protection. And of course there are Rural areas in some parts parliamentary report on rural What we need to work specific challenges to rural of Scotland are considered housing which has recently at is the integration of what living, especially in the remoter dormitories, leisure facilities or been released, the launch of they are both part of – rural areas, such as infrastructure, sites for economic development. the Scotland National Rural development. Network and the draft Crofting transport, employment, fuel But can this continue? Is Bill which is now out for poverty and so on. importation of food sustainable consultation. These are just There is no one aspect more and secure? Will the tension some of the rural development important than another (though between food production and initiatives taking place. those working in one area may other uses of rural land be So what is rural see it as the most important!) as resolved? development? Some of the all are integrated. And at the heart Crofting offers a viable future articles in this issue shine of rural development are people, for rural communities and is a a light on this, or rather communities that are resilient, possible model for sustainable on aspects of it, for rural are sustainable, that provide a land use throughout Scotland. Claire Nicolson THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 5 RURAL DEVELOPMENT Crofting and sustainable rural development: Linking theory and practice

Dr Calum Macleod (UHI Centre for Remote will increasingly focus on how the Crofters and Rural Studies) Commission, reprieved by Government despite Dr Nicole Busby, (School of Law, University the inquiry’s calls for its abolition, will respond of Stirling) to criticisms that it enforces crofting regulation weakly and inconsistently, particularly in

rofting’s iconic status as relation to absenteeism and neglect. Claire Nicolson a lynchpin of sustainable rural Against the background of a rapidly-evolving Cdevelopment in the Highlands and relationship between crofting and sustainable Islands for over a century has long been rural development, we are currently conducting recognised. an independent research project titled Yet at the beginning of the 21st century ‘Communitarianism and Sustainable Crofting there are concerns about its continuing capacity Communities’. Themes explored in the study to fulfil this role effectively. Such concerns include definitional issues in relation to crofting; embrace a complex set of relationships between the relationship between crofting, sustainable land occupancy and use, population retention development and cultural diversity; and the and the social cohesion and sustainability socio-legal aspects of regulating crofting. We of rural communities. As anyone with even have recently completed the initial scoping a passing interest in crofting is well aware, phase of the research with funding support these concerns received their most high profile from the Carnegie Trust for the Universities airing in the report of the Scottish Government of Scotland. This involved conducting initiated Committee of Inquiry on Crofting, interviews with representatives of the Scottish (chaired by Professor Mark Shucksmith) which Crofting Foundation, Crofters Commission, reported in May 2008. The wealth of evidence Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands generated by the inquiry was distilled into a set Enterprise, the Western Isles Council, Scottish of recommendations for the future of crofting Natural Heritage and the North Harris Trust. which have produced a good deal of light and As a result of our preliminary findings the next no little heat in their wake. phase of the study will focus on three related The broad thrust of the inquiry’s areas of investigation. Firstly, the challenges recommendations is that the interests of associated with linking functional crofting Claire Nicolson individual crofters need to be rebalanced in interests to a wider, more inclusive community favour of the wider interests of crofting, to development agenda. In particular we are enable the latter to remain viable and play its interested in issues of identity in relation to Rural full part in sustaining rural communities in the crofting communities and the role of community Highlands and Islands. land purchases in sustainable community development In turn, this raises fundamental questions development. Secondly, the extent to which about what constitutes crofting communities. crofting law is responsively regulated. Thirdly, opportunities Should they be conceptualised in terms of a the relationship between land management narrow function-based definition with crofting and sustainability in crofting communities will ome communities will have a new kid as the dominant, potentially exclusive, be considered with a particular emphasis on on the streets or, more likely, at the function? Or should they be viewed as wider individual and community assets. Scomputer: a Community Powerdown place-based entities embracing crofting and It strikes us that these issues represent Officer. non-crofting interests? the central challenges which crofters, crofting These come courtesy of Community Energy If these seem like abstract academic communities and public agencies must Scotland for putting together the consortium of 27 questions, they shouldn’t. They actually have collectively address if the future direction community groups scattered throughout Scotland highly practical ramifications which are already of travel for crofting and sustainable rural and the Climate Challenge Fund for agreeing to being felt. Post-Shucksmith, the development development is to progress on a shared path. fund the officers for the next two years. strand of crofting policy has been transferred We look forward to sharing our research findings Now why are these folk relevant to crofters? from the Crofters Commission to Highlands with interested parties as they emerge. Well, their principal goal is to put together and Islands Enterprise, an agency with a projects to reduce the carbon emissions within long track record of framing community *Please email Calum Macleod (calum. their communities. Amongst the projects development initiatives within an inclusive [email protected]) if you would like being considered by some of the groups place-based definition. Furthermore, attention to find out more about this research project. is encouraging local food production and increasing the awareness of food produced locally to cut down food miles. So they could well be of help in increasing the markets for local croft produce. Another area where there will be mutual interest is in the use of renewable energy technology. All in all the Powerdown folk will become a useful source of information regarding most energy matters, particularly in helping cut those energy bills which, after all, do tend to become less when carbon emissions are reduced. To check whether your community has such a body please go to: http://www. communityenergyscotland.org.uk/news. Or contact Helen Houston, Community Powerdown Coordinator at Community Energy

Claire Nicolson Scotland on 01349 860124. 6 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 RURAL DEVELOPMENT Our Community ... A Way Forward An approach to bringing residents, community Forward started out as a housing survey next ten years.” groups and agencies together to agree but ended up as a fairly broad community ‘Big Conversation Day’ events were held priorities for action to improve the quality of life needs assessment with an emphasis on the allowing residents to discuss and agree an in local communities. economy, tourism, housing and social issues. action plan of what they felt were the priorities in Although statistical information can be found their areas. Everyone was invited to come and t was piloted during late 2007/early on some of these issues, most is available make their views known. There was naturally 2008 in Grantown-on-Spey, Cromdale, Advie for areas larger than single communities and a certain amount of healthy disagreement over Iand Dulnain Bridge, four rural communities often isn’t detailed enough to help decide some of the issues, but by talking them through, lying within the Cairngorms National Park. The how best to tackle issues such as housing. a consensus was reached on what was most initiative involved the four community councils, The pilot communities were similar in some important for the majority of residents which Cairngorms National Park Authority, Highland ways but very different in others so scope was then went forward for action. Agencies were Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, needed for each community to identify what present throughout, providing support from the Voluntary Action Badenoch and Strathspey, issues were most important. beginning of the process – a crucial element to the Association of Cairngorms Communities Consideration also had to be given to ensuring a successful outcome. – and most importantly the communities consultations carried out previously but with Evan Wylie (Cromdale community council) themselves. few apparent results and possible subsequent was impressed that it included all residents. A Community Action Planning Toolkit was reluctance to get involved in the pilot, as well “We wanted to make sure that it wasn’t just produced as part of the pilot and draws on as strong feelings that previous consultation the usual suspects that get involved in this. the lessons learnt by everyone involved. It exercises hadn’t included some hard-to-reach We made particular efforts to involve a wide is designed to be used by any community to sections of the community. cross section of the community including help identify their aims and objectives, collect A survey of all households was carried out to young people, people with disabilities, local relevant information, involve people and gather facts and figures about housing issues businesses, the churches etc. We couldn’t do decide what action to take to achieve positive and views about the community. A range of it ourselves and looked for local organisations results. other methods were then used to fill in the that would be willing to organise their own Success of the pilot was such that in gaps in statistical information and to get ideas community conversations and then feed back March 2009, a seminar was held to launch from local residents about how to improve to us.” a three-year project to cover the other 10 their community. Ten to twelve actions were identified in each communities in Badenoch and Strathspey, Appreciative inquiry was the method used in community, some of which could be delivered starting with Dalwhinnie, Kingussie, Laggan the pilot and adopted in the toolkit, which looks quickly and easily, whilst others are longer and Newtonmore in April 2009. Residents at a community’s strengths and achievements term. However all points on the action plans from the pilot communities attended the event and how to build upon them. are moving forward and will be completed or to offer advice and attendees learnt how the Jim Beveridge (Grantown community the communities themselves may decide that process fits into overall community planning council) commented that one of positives of they are no longer viable. for Badenoch and Strathspey, who can get the project was that it focused on building on The Community Action Planning Toolkit involved, potential activities in the communities what was already in place. “Often community is published by the Cairngorms National and how to use the toolkit. needs assessments look at the problems in a Park Authority and is intended as a guide for The project is also being carried out in community, what people don’t like or what the community councils and other community Ballater on the east side of the Cairngorms community doesn’t have. Our starting point groups who want to influence community National Park where, with the aid of the toolkit, was that the community had a lot going for it planning in their area. local residents are moving forward in the and had achieved great things in the past. We Karen Derrick process with great energy and enthusiasm. looked at the good things and discussed how Community Development Officer, Voluntary The project Our Community ... A Way we could build on these achievements in the Action in Badenoch and Strathspey THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 7 RURAL DEVELOPMENT HIE’s new role in crofting Centre for Remote and ighlands and Islands from within the community which Rural Studies Enterprise (HIE) has a addresses the community’s Creating the University of Scotland in person and by video- new remit for crofting development opportunities in a H the Highlands and Islands. conferencing. community development. The holistic and integrated way. Topics have included: ‘Crofting crofting community is defined Where crofting remains HI’s Centre for Remote is the Future’ delivered by Mark as including all those who live in a significant and important and Rural Studies (CRRS) Shucksmith, professor of planning a community where crofting is a economic and cultural activity, aims to address the U at Newcastle University and chair practiced activity. the community growth plans will social, economic, cultural and to the Committee of Inquiry into HIE will utilise its community include a crofting development environmental opportunities and Crofting; ‘Communities of Practice’, development experience and statement which will be derived challenges facing remote and led by Dr Kate Braithwaite, director expertise to offer opportunities from local crofter input. It is rural places and people. of the Carnegie UK Trust Rural to those selected communities anticipated that these statements It seeks to achieve this by Programme; and ‘Does Rural willing to take forward ownership will be recognised under working with others in conducting Proofing Make Sense?’ delivered of community planning within the regulatory and planning activity high-quality research, stimulating by Dr Sally Shortall, Queens fragile areas of the HIE area. A by the new regional crofting public debate and analysing and University Belfast. Professor Bill map of the designated fragile boards and the local authority evaluating policy options that Slee (The Macaulay Institute) areas can be found in our guide planning department. secure the long-term wellbeing of spoke on ‘Looking Backward – to services on the HIE website at remote and rural regions. Crofting development within Looking Forward: Relocalisation www.hie.co.uk/services-guide.htm. While based in the Scottish specific sectors and Sustainable Development’ Highlands and Islands, CRRS Growth at the Edge/Fas aig at the final seminar on 15th May HIE will also invest in crofting works at local, national and an Oir (GatE/FaaO) is an HIE 2009. sector development including, international levels, focusing on approach which will focus on In addition to providing the potentially: three cross-cutting themes: asset development and capacity A crofting development Access and inclusion – secretariat to the Cross Party building in fragile areas. It will statement toolkit – this will identifying inequalities and Group on Rural Policy in Scotland incorporate crofting community initially assist crofters and working with policymakers and and serving on commissions such development following the then their neighbours through other stakeholders to address as Carnegie UK Trust Inquiry into transfer of this function from the a consideration of how they such inequalities; Civil Society, CRRS staff continue Crofters Commission. would like to see crofting Sustainability – asset to be involved in researching on HIE will also work to contribute to the community’s ownership and management, issues of relevance to remote and complement Community Energy future, eventually producing leadership and governance rural places. Scotland (CES) activity where a crofting development issues, regional development and Recent and current projects communities have secured statement. It is intended that innovation, third sector activities, include an evaluation of a assistance to bring forward their those crofting development and public sector service delivery themed grant programme on energy plans. statements, either free in remote and rural places; rural elderly for The Trusthouse Crofters may also, as individuals standing or as incorporated Managing change – Charitable Foundation; an or collectively, develop social in community growth plans particularly in relation to Arkleton fellowship on mapping enterprises or micro businesses will be recognised by and economic and social change, initiatives on communities which are supportable under the influence relevant local local-global linkages, climate adapting to climate change in the HIE Strengthening Communities authority planning policy and change, demographics, Americas; impact of the economic group guidance associated with the new crofting regulatory migration and technological crisis on the third sector in rural those branches of the GatE/ boards. HIE has secured advances within the context of areas for the ESRC; EU project FaaO approach. They also often the collaboration of the remote and rural places. on rural poverty; and providing have a linguistic development Crofters Commission in the Established in 2004 as UHI consultancy to the Carnegie UK contribution to make as active development of this toolkit. PolicyWeb, renewed funding Trust Rural Action Research users of Gaelic. Capacity building programmes from Highlands and Islands Programme ‘Building Inclusive HIE’s approach to crofting for crofters – HIE has already Enterprise (HIE) has enabled it to Communities’. community development has two funded the Scottish Crofting expand. Dr Philomena de Lima, Finally in June 2009, CRRS components. Foundation’s crofting induction the centre’s director, is supported is hosting a major international Community Account Management courses for 2009) by a centre manager, two senior summer school, being held in Integration of crofting into the research fellows and two part- the UK for the first time. The HIE will apply a Community promotional and development time researchers. Coming International Comparative Account Management (CAM) activities in two of HIE’s key from a variety of disciplinary Rural Policy Studies (ICRPS) process to a targeted number growth sectors, food and drink, backgrounds, staff expertise programme is a unique of communities. HIE will seek and tourism. includes regional development; international academic and endorsement from the five The Rural Direct service will be regulation and governance; professional development relevant community planning delivered by the Scottish Council impact of demographic changes programme which is now in its partnerships (which also have the for Voluntary Organisations and population regeneration sixth year. Crofters Commission as partners) (SCVO), providing advice to strategies; immigration and The school will bring together for the selected communities community groups on project migration; social exclusion and postgraduate students, that have the most credible funding sources including the rural poverty; community assets, academics and rural development potential for growth. HIE’s Scottish Rural Development including land use issues; and professionals from across Europe selection process will consider Programme (SRDP). communities’ adaptation to and the Americas and will also the imperative of achieving clear For more information, visit climate change. involve a number of policy makers, measurable impacts for the GatE/ www.ruraldirect.org.uk CRRS has organised a seminar practitioners and academics FaaO approach and the relevant The administration of crofting series on issues of interest to who have an interest in rural single outcome agreements, over grants for individual crofters those involved in rural policy development issues in Scotland. the next two years. will be delivered directly by the and research, with some funding For further information on The purpose of CAM is to assist Scottish Government through from Highland Council. Between CRRS: www.crrs.uhi.ac.uk or and facilitate a community with the SRDP and the Crofter 30-60 people from a wide range email at: [email protected] the development and delivery of Housing Scheme which is of sectors have participated in a community growth plan derived currently under review. each of the seminars from across Dr Philomena de Lima 8 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 RURAL DEVELOPMENT SAC’s rural society research Sarah Skerrat reports ur research focuses changing work cultures, are related on social change in rural to dynamics of Gaelic language OScotland, and seeks to change in rural Scotland. provide research findings which Dr Leaza McSorley is a regional will be of use to rural communities economist, looking at the extent – both directly and indirectly, by to which regional development working in partnership with other funding and policies benefit parts of SAC (SAC Consulting the rural economy. She is also and SAC Learning), and with interested in how regional and external partners in the areas of rural development policies are health, transport, employment being implemented in Scotland and policy. and how they interact with other The rural society research national and local policies. team sits within the land economy Fiona Williams focuses her and environment research group research on farm succession, at SAC. Dr Sarah Skerratt heads succession planning within farm up the team, and her areas of households, and the ways in research include processes of which farm land is being sold rural community development and and/or transferred both within the ways in which communities farming families and beyond to themselves seek to ensure their new-comers to farming and land- own survivability and ongoing based enterprises – particularly in strength. She looks at processes those areas closer to cities. of change at ground level In addition to our individual and relates these to policies research, the team works together aimed at increasing community on projects, as well as working involvement, for example through with other colleagues within and LEADER, community planning beyond SAC. For example, we Dear Editor and other development trusts and have recently carried out joint organisations. Her work is linked research on rural community Article 68 – CAP Healthcheck very closely with analysis of facilities and their sustainability; After studying the map above I is essentially not the greatest idea policy, both here in Scotland and and we are currently very engaged am speaking on the Argyll picture. I have come across. internationally – most recently in in working with the Care Farming I would say that some of the pink The subject of support does Quebec, and also in Scandinavia. Scotland national initiative. We areas are already empty or have not stop at moneyed matters, it Dr Marsaili MacLeod is a social have recently won a part in a project a low stock density. I smile when has to be extended to the future geographer whose research looking at closer engagement I look at the colour of the area of the industry, which has shrunk is centred on understanding between research providers and shown for Tiree; there is a very dramatically. A system of new dimensions of cultural local authorities in Scotland. real possibility of the area being entrant packages should be sustainability. She is currently Please feel free to contact us denuded of stock. Perhaps more looked at – a small and effective involved in a European research for any further information about to do with the age of the crofters scheme was in place for new partnership to examine how anything written here, plus of than anything else, it is a very old entrants to crofting which was very cultural heritage assets contribute course do get in touch if you would farming or agricultural society. effective at replacing population in to different development paths like to discuss ideas. The main problem facing the fragile areas. The scheme is now across rural Europe. At the Our contact details are: industry is a very small pie but a lot unfortunately defunct. national level, her recent research Sarah Skerratt (0131 535 of people sitting at the table. I feel The main ill of agriculture has examined the role of the 4335; [email protected]); that monies should be directed at is trying to sustain an industry cultural economy in supporting Marsaili MacLeod (01224 711081; businesses that are working and on pre-war finance. Cheap Gaelic language maintenance. [email protected]); employing in the industry. Those food is now not an option if the Marsaili is currently developing Leaza McSorley (0131 535 4256; who have trimmed their outfits, administrations of both Scotland new research to examine what [email protected]); and but still within their rights to collect and Britain are not willing to components of social and Fiona Williams (fiona.williams@ SFP, surely cannot expect to finance this package, so if we are economic development, such as sac.ac.uk). receive the same level of support now in a global market, then we as has been gotten in the past. have to pay the global price for The monies available perhaps goods received. The price is not should be better redistributed. in money alone. LFAs and SFPs are crucial to First and foremost to the every farming enterprise, the public is the availability of food finance is built into the very in the shops, the wide variety of structure of the businesses, but food. The world is now available not so the ancillary options in in a shop 12 months of the year the LMO or SRDP, such as rush at prices that are, to be quite management etc. If this money frank, ridiculously cheap, not the was properly used and distributed true price of course. Think of the it would go a long way to help misery in Zimbabwe. My thoughts fund a package of survival for have always been that if you buy these parts of the industry which cheap goods made or produced have suffered from neglect from in Third World countries, you are various administrations, both advocating slave labour. Holyrood and Westminster. So for the survival of the Yours industry, robbing Peter to pay Paul William Neilson THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 9 Askernish golf course – SCF’s position s we went to press we both sides, it became clear that it been accepted by the court, ruled? So for a whole number of heard the very good relations had broken down to would have stripped crofters reasons the SCF board backed the Aznews that the Askernish such an extent that there was at everywhere of most of their rights Askernish crofters. dispute had been settled prior that time no obvious route to an over their common grazings. A situation where a number to the full hearing of the case agreement. Basically, Sir Crispin’s case was of ordinary Uist crofters, carrying by the Scottish Land Court. We When, soon afterwards, the that a landlord could carry out any out the best of traditional crofting do not at this stage know what grazings committee sought an development on a common grazing practice, felt it necessary to take their agreement has been reached but interdict at Lochmaddy sheriff without the consent of the tenants community landlord to the Scottish we welcome it nonetheless. court, a full hearing before the and without the need to resume or Land Court should clearly never As SCF has been subject land court became inevitable. pay compensation, provided that have arisen. People will obviously to criticism in some quarters At the preliminary hearing early the tenants were left with sufficient have different views as to how that over the position it has taken this year, the court determined grazing for their soumings. situation did, indeed, arise. in support of the Askernish that the estate was entitled to So for golf course read wind farm, SCF will always seek to defend crofters, it is incumbent here to enforce Lady Gordon Cathcart’s for example, and the implications crofters’ rights regardless of who set out our position. reservation of golfing rights for crofters were very clear – no is their landlord. How could we SCF became involved in the dating from 1922, but that such compensation for resumption and no do otherwise? Askernish dispute in January rights could not be exercised at share in development value. What That said, we wish every success 2008 when the crofters’ the expense of the crofters’ rights started life as a local dispute therefore to Askernish golf course, to the representatives invited us to visit to their common grazing. took on a huge national significance. crofters of Askernish and to Storas South Uist. We went there with Sir Crispin Agnew, counsel for Fortunately the court rejected Sir Uibhist. As a recent editorial in the intention of trying to help find the landlord Storas Uibhist, put Crispin’s assertion, but who knows another newspaper put it, “It’s time a solution but, having met with forward an argument which, had how a higher court might have to proceed to the nineteenth hole.”

To the editor of the West a democratic body the grazings Askernish crofters defend Highland Free Press committee had to uphold the mandate given them Dear sir crofting heritage Presumably the Free Press This article was submitted on behalf by traditional crofting methods. Your criticism of the role is aware of the argument put of Askernish grazings committee Machair remains in its herb-rich state of the Scottish Crofting forward to the land court by and was received before agreement only when grazed and manured Foundation in the Askernish Sir Crispin Agnew on behalf was reached prior to the land court by livestock, especially cattle, common grazings dispute is of Storas Uibhist, that a hearing. It has been edited in light of managed traditionally. Such land unreasonable and ill-informed. landlord can carry out any that agreement. management is beneficial to wildlife The resolution of this development on a crofters’ as well as to crofting livelihoods. affair, in advance of a lengthy common grazing without he crofters of the These benefits extend beyond and damaging full hearing the need to resume or to Askernish township in South the immediate crofting community before the Scottish Land pay compensation, provided Uist remain resolute in defence T to all of Uist. The maintenance of Court, is to be unreservedly the crofters retain sufficient of their rights as crofting tenants and machair biodiversity is vital to the welcomed. As agreement grazing for their soumings. of the crofting heritage of South Uist. Uist economy and brings in many has been reached between This should be ringing This is despite the three-year dispute thousands of tourists every year, the crofters and landlord alarm bells for all crofters. with the community landlord Storas providing a major source of income this is clearly not the time Had the court accepted Sir Uibhist over the golfing development for many homes and businesses. to rake over the intricacies Crispin’s case there would be on the Askernish machair common From the outset the Askernish of the case, or to seek to no compensation, or share in grazings. crofters have not been against the apportion blame, rather to development value, for such as For over a year the landlord development of the present nine- allow the parties involved a major wind farm constructed sanctioned the extended hole course as long as this took to get on with it and to wish on a common grazing, development of the previous nine- place within a designated area of them success. potentially taking huge sums hole golf course at Askernish to land. There is sufficient area on the However, you have claimed of money away from crofters cover much of the machair common Askernish machair to accommodate that “the Scottish Crofting and their communities. What grazings. The creation of an 18-hole crofting and golf. The crofters were Foundation has not covered does the Free Press think of course over most of the machair always happy to go to mediation itself in glory in this affair”. Sir Crispin’s assertion? was at risk of making the land unfit in an attempt to find an amicable Apart from the intended slur, The Scottish Crofting for crofting purposes. solution but were prepared to go to this is correct as it was never Foundation will continue to Development activity entailed the the land court with funds raised by the intention of the SCF to stand up for crofters’ rights their own efforts. removal of turf, the creation of new get any glory from this, only regardless of who is their It was a sad state of affairs that the fairways and bunkers, the cutting of to try to help protect crofting landlord, and we make no community landlord of South Uist was marram grass and the installation of rights; and it will be for apologies for doing so. We relying on conditions imposed by the new tees within the dune systems. crofters everywhere to pass would expect the Free Press notorious Lady Gordon Cathcart on All these development activities judgement on the role of SCF to be the first to condemn the first tenants of Askernish in 1922. were contrary to the local grazings once they are fully appraised us if we did otherwise. regulations. In addition, safety However, we hope for a solution that of the facts. We urge all concerned with concerns were evident in relation to will enable crofting and golfing interests Our decision to support the crofters’ common grazing how people, livestock, agriculture and to exist in harmony on the machair as Askernish crofters was taken rights and those who wish to golfing were to be managed on the they have done in the past. after exhaustive discussion understand SCF’s position to machair, particularly during calving, Please send your letters of support by our board and in the read the transcript of the Land lambing and cropping periods. and any donations that you feel able light of legal opinion on the Court case at The South Uist machair forms a to make towards our legal expenses implications of the case for large proportion of global machair c/o SCF head office. We thank you in the rights of all crofters over www.storasuibhist.com/ land – a rare and finely-balanced advance for your support. Any funds their common grazings. wordpress/wp-content/ habitat, created and maintained left over will be given to charity. We were not supporting uploads/2009/03/askernish- crofters against crofters – the land-court-judgement.pdf Askernish common grazings Yours faithfully were in majority opposed to the landlord’s decision and as Patrick Krause 10 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 ON THE CROFT New guide on caseous lymphadenitis aseous lymphadenitis (CLA) of having the diseases are isolated and use within a single holding, have only is a chronic disease of sheep and investigated quickly. anecdotal evidence supporting their ability C goats which has both significant There is hope though. The development to prevent infection. The Australian CLA welfare and financial implications. of the CLA diagnostic blood-test by Moredun vaccine, Glanvac™ is also now available The Moredun Foundation, a leading scientists (available through SAC) has been for use in the UK provided permission for animal health charity which governs a major achievement, providing a powerful use has been obtained from the Veterinary the work of an internationally renowned tool to allow the identification of animals Medicines Directive. There is a lot of research institute studying the infectious with CLA. experimental data for Glanvac™; however, diseases of livestock, has produced a free this vaccine, which also contains clostridial technical news-sheet for farmers and vets components, was developed for use against with essential practical tips to help limit this the Australian form of CLA which manifests disease on farm and croft plus up-to-date slightly differently to the disease seen in information on clinical signs and diagnosis sheep in this country. of the disease. Dr Michael Fontaine (author or the The disease leads to abscesses forming news-sheet) along with his colleagues at in the lymph nodes and other tissues and Moredun are therefore looking to develop internal organs and leads to chronic wasting. a UK vaccine against CLA. He explained: It is caused by a highly infectious bacteria “Moredun has undertaken basic trials (C pseudotuberculosis) that can survive in the environment for several months. using several new experimental vaccines. CLA is highly infectious and leads to large pus- The results of these studies have been CLA is extremely infectious. It was filled abscesses in the lymph nodes around the previously only thought to be a problem head and neck as well as in the lungs, liver, heart extremely promising and have confirmed in the terminal sire breeds, but it is now and other internal organs of infected animals that there are better alternatives to currently established within the national flock. Direct available CLA vaccines in the UK. We hope contact with pus from burst CLA lesions is Protecting your animals from CLA to continue to develop these experimental the main source of new infections. However, remains the ultimate goal, through. At the vaccines in an effort to provide an effective infectious aerosol from animals with lung moment farmers and crofters in Britain control option for CLA for British farmers lesions has also been shown to be a means can use autogenous CLA vaccines, which and crofters.” of disease spread. Antibiotic treatment is are prepared to order using bacteria taken If you would like a free copy of the eight ineffective. It is therefore essential that both from pus samples from animals with the page news-sheet on CLA contact Maggie farmers/crofters and vets are aware of this disease. Unfortunately, these vaccines, Bennett or Hazel Rice at the Moredun disease and that those animals suspected which are expensive and are only for Foundation on 0131 445 5111.

SCF area representative John MacLeod, Daviot, and his son Rory ploughing on the croft this spring, using a 1939 Fordson N attached to a cockshut plough

Practical guides – new technical notes for busy farmers and crofters ew technical notes have been have been made in the last 20 years both in helping neighbours, attending livestock added to SAC’s large list of short, terms of annual yields (10-15%) and more auctions, agricultural shows and visiting any Npractical field guides for farmers especially in early and late season growth facility where animals are kept. There are and growers. (25% and 15% respectively) – effectively some guidelines which, if adhered to, can They are funded by the Scottish Government extending the grazing season. This can have prevent unnecessary disease incursion and under the Veterinary and Advisory Services a profound impact on animal performance the associated hardship and loss of income. (VAS) programme and Advisory Activity, Crop (live weight gain and milk yield). So, there You can access these technical notes at Health schemes. The latest publications cover is every reason to take advantage of these www.sac.ac.uk/technicalnotes. variety recommendations for grass and clover developments when sowing a new sward. and biosecurity for livestock keepers. SAC has TN 617 Stockowner Biosecurity a long history of providing such handy, easy to The prevention of infectious disease being read advice, although nowadays it is published introduced to herds and flocks is ever more on the website with fewer in printed form. important as margins tighten and exotic TN 616 Recommended grass and clover diseases threaten. Constant attention to detail varieties 08/09 and vigilance for signs of disease are vital for This note lists the varieties recommended the protection of a producer’s animals and in Scotland with the first choice varieties business. Stockowners need to consider the highlighted in capitals. Significant advances disease risks when employing contractors, THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 11 ON THE CROFT Woodland Crofts Good fences make egular readers of The Lifestyles and livelihoods based on Crofter may recall an article woodlands are traditional in many RI wrote for the newspaper parts of the world, but are currently good neighbours on woodland crofts in autumn rare in Scotland. o goes the old cliché. of how to provide decent, 2007, outlining developments to Although it is anticipated that Fences get a bad affordable, durable, stockproof that date. woodland crofts will always Spress. They can be fences often on steep and One of the things I called for involve an element of woodland unsightly; they consume a lot rocky ground in inaccessible in that article was dedicated and management, the exact nature of crofting grant funding; they places. Croft boundaries were professional support for communities and extent of this is not prescribed. can be a discouragement to usually set out on a map with no developing woodland crofts Whilst there are constraints on communal working because reference to ground conditions. projects. Little did I know then that how a woodland is managed at we can all do our own thing if When I first claimed a fencing that support would be me! I am now the whole woodland scale, there is we want to, rather than work grant, the inspecting officer the woodland crofts project officer considerable flexibility for individual as a township; and they can be from the ‘Department’ asked, attached to the Community Land woodland croft tenants to manage dangerous to low flying birds like “How deep did you put the Unit of HIE, and have been in post their crofts to meet their own needs the capercaillie. strainers in?” “As far as they’d since August last year, following on and aspirations. In the olden days there were go,” I replied. The officer was a from Sandra Holmes who originally Woodland crofts are governed by no fences at all because crofters practical man, and the grant was held the post before moving on to a a combination of crofting legislation, couldn’t afford them. Animals, duly paid. new role within CLU. and forest regulation. I recently had to remove The last few months have been The last line is significant. A a long distance of five-wire spent supporting communities and woodland croft is a croft like any electric fence that a preceding developing new guidance as and other when it comes to crofting crofter had put up, and replace when issues arise. Interestingly, regulation: there is no crofting it with conventional stock fence. one of the first issues to merit legislation unique to woodland The electric option must attention has been what in fact crofts. Similarly, the requirements have seemed a good idea at we mean by woodland crofts. governing management of the time, but by all accounts The formal description quoted woodland on woodland crofts are it never worked. Summer in my 2007 article – “Woodland not specific to them – they apply growth of grass and rushes crofts range from being mainly to all woodlands. Hopefully this accompanied by a shower woodland to mainly agricultural understanding will help de-mystify of rain was enough to earth with a woodland element. They link the concept. out the whole system and the housing, local rural livelihoods and What is different, indeed unique, animals soon got wise to it. woodland management” – has in is the opportunity for individuals So several miles of thin, some cases not given communities of ordinary means to take on the springy, high-tensile wire, sufficient clarity as to what they management of woodland areas, not much use for any other might be able to do with woodland in a range of new and interesting purpose, has ended up at the crofts. Accordingly, we have written ways and in support of their lives Council’s recycling centre. a guidance note which considers and livelihoods. Electric fencing has its the framework within which Community groups now place, of course, mainly as a woodland crofts sit. To quote from developing woodland crofts temporary and movable means its introduction: include the Embo Trust, which of getting the most out of a piece of grazing. What is a woodland croft? has received approval to purchase its local FCS woodland, whilst However, even temporary A woodland croft is a registered Craignish Community Company’s electric fencing has to remain croft created from an existing application to do the same will be tight in order to be at all woodland. effective. A single electric wire, considered shortly. The community unless tethered or constantly Woodland crofts are a new well tensioned, at the top of a in Dervaig on Mull already own herded, were excluded by opportunity for individuals and conventional fence is the best their local woodland and are also statute from cropping areas communities to build lives and option where cattle have a considering woodland crofts. during the growing season livelihoods based on the woodland Elsewhere, communities from tendency to destroy the fencing resource. It is also expected that and were only allowed into by sheer weight, pressure and Arran to Achmore are exploring the the inbye when it was time to the new approach to management options. It promises to be a busy determination. graze the harvest aftermath. taken by woodland crofters will few months and years ahead! CCAGS is no longer available deliver increased social, economic Since grants became available for fencing where it is a like for Jamie McIntyre and environmental benefits. for the purpose, fences have like replacement of an existing Woodland Crofts project officer proliferated, sometimes to asset. Tel: 01967 402332 excess. Fences erected when However, if cattle are being [email protected] the grants were generous, such introduced or protection from as during IDP, have often been deer is required, new fencing The project officer’s post is a allowed to become derelict only along an existing line is likely to partnership between Forestry half way into their life-span, due be supported. Crofters taking Commission Scotland and simply to lack of maintenance. over derelict land, or going into Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Having said all that, fences agri-environment measures, are are essential for any livestock also likely to have fencing grant enterprise, however extensive applications approved. and free-ranging. Given the To last for their design restricted grant assistance life, fences need constant now available, and the ever- maintenance – at least annual. increasing cost of materials, Think of a wire fence as a the siting, design and quality of machine, which in many ways it fencing work are more important is. The better the maintenance than ever. Crofters have always the better the performance and been faced with the dilemma the longer the working life. 12 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009

rooted in our community Our mission is to safeguard and promote the rights, livelihoods and culture of crofters and their communities

a range of homes combining rural tradition, modern living Dave Thompson and the latest technology to MSP set a new standard in kit for Highlands and Islands house design Regional Office Thorfin House Bridgend Business Park Dingwall IV15 9SL

Tel: 01349 864 701 T: 01471 820410 I: www.hebrideanhomes.com Email: [email protected] MODERN HOMES FOR RURAL LIVING THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 13

rooted in our community NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

NAME OF COMPANY: Scottish Crofting Foundation Company Number: SC 218658

Registered Office: Lochalsh Business Park, Auchtertyre, Kyle of Lochalsh, Ross-shire IV40 8EG

NOTICE is hereby given that the Eighth Annual General Meeting of the Scottish Crofting Foundation will be held on TUESDAY 23rd JUNE 2009 at Dingwall and Highland Mart, Humberston, Bailechaul Road, Dingwall AT 2.00 pm to consider and, if agreed, to pass the following resolutions:-

1. To receive company’s accounts and the report of the directors and auditors for the year ended 30 November 2008. A summary of the accounts will be available at the meeting and the full or summary accounts will be provided prior to the meeting on request to the registered office.

2. To elect and/or re-appoint directors.

3. To re-appoint Ritsons chartered accountants, of 27 Huntly Street, Inverness IV3 5PR as accountants/ auditors and to fix their remuneration.

4. To receive and resolve proposed amendments to the company’s articles of association per the following special resolution.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION OF SCOTTISH CROFTING FOUNDATION

A private company limited by guarantee without share capital Company Number SC 218658

In accordance with Section 77(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2006 we, being members of the company who, at the date of this resolution are entitled to attend and vote at a general meeting of the company, hereby resolve upon the following special resolution and agree that it shall be valid and effective as a special resolution passed at a general meeting of the company duly convened and held.

That the name of the company be changed to ‘SCOTTISH CROFTING FEDERATION’

with effect from the date on which the new certificate of incorporation is issued.

Company Secretary: Alistair MacIver Date of notice: 1st June 2009

Scottish Crofting Federation As we gave notice of in the last issue of The Crofter, we were member-led organisation promoting crofting, the representative tasked to investigate a change of name for the SCF at last status of the SCF could be reflected better in its name. year’s AGM. The reasons were several: So, after many contributions the consensus is currently to Firstly, there was a sense of loss over the ‘Union’ part of the return to the name ‘Federation’ which indicates that we work as name going in the change to charitable status (though it was a group of self-governing areas who share a common goal – at the time the law that dictated this); secondly, ‘Foundation’ to safeguard and promote the rights, livelihoods and culture of can be confusing as in development and funding circles this is crofters and their communities. a name given to a grant-awarding body and thirdly, as the only This will be put to the AGM as a resolution in June. 14 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009

rooted in our community

Scottish Crofting Foundation Company Number: SC 218658 FORM OF PROXY For voting at the annual general meeting to be held on Tuesday 23rd June 2009.

I (name) of (address) being a member of the above named company, hereby appoint the chairman or (name) of (address) as my proxy to vote in my name and on my behalf at the annual general meeting of the company to be held on Tuesday 23rd June 2009, and at any adjournment thereof. This form is to be used in respect of the resolutions mentioned below as follows:

Special Resolution *for *against (*strike out whichever is not desired)

Unless otherwise instructed, the proxy may vote as he/she thinks fit or abstain from voting.

Signed (name)

Date

SCF Membership No

For this proxy to be considered, it must be returned to the company’s registered office at:

Lochalsh Business Park, Auchtertyre, by Kyle, IV40 8EG by Monday 22nd June, 2009 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 15 AGM notice of proposed directors of the company he Annual General to nominate candidates for the Meeting of the Scottish board. TCrofting Foundation will Changes to the SCF board. take place on Tuesday 23rd June Hugh Donaldson has stood 2009 at Dingwall Auction Mart, at down. 2pm. John MacLeod will stand down. The calling notice is included Norman Leask will stand down – in this edition of The Crofter. All the board is minded to co-opt him members are welcome to attend on for a further year to continue his this meeting. A buffet lunch will work as parliamentary liaison. be available from 1pm. If you are Eleanor Arthur is nominated by unable to attend please return the the council of area representatives proxy form which is on the reverse to be a director. of your calling notice. Derek Flyn has been asked Earlier in the year all SCF by the board to be a director and branches and areas were asked has agreed. Eleanor Arthur hanks to the council for by ferry, which takes 30 minutes, nominating me to become a and by car 15 minutes to work. Tdirector of the SCF. I realise My family and I live on a croft I have much to learn and will enjoy which has been in our family the tuition of more experienced for three generations. I also board members. rent two crofts giving a total of Since becoming a council about 30 acres, on which we member in 2007 I have been have native/cross sheep and working along with Norman, Shetland kye. This is my main mainly on Shetland-related issues interest, but with working full and I attend the cross party time, the cattle are looked after meetings in Holyrood whenever throughout the winter by a friend I can with Patrick and Norman. of mine who stables her horses This I find very comprehensive beside us (unofficial rent) and a and challenging. lot of carting muck. Crofting is a complex and I am chair of the Shetland varied subject and one I find Cattle from Shetland breeders quite frustrating at times. It’s group which is extremely like a moving tide and one can interesting work. We have been never manage to get over the busy trying to find a way forward top of the wave – but constantly to preserve the breed and battling to justify why you still publicise the excellence of the swim against it. quality of beef and the hardiness I live in a small island called of the breed and to promote Whalsay on the east side of these wonderful cattle, the small Shetland where there is a holders’ dream of a house cow. population of around 1000, a I also have native Shetland junior and secondary school sheep, which my husband is now Derek Flyn with a constant role of about crossing, getting a first-cross erek Flyn retired from Scottish Crofters Union with whom 180 children. We also have a ewe then texel lambs, so that’s the Inverness legal firm of he worked closely for many years. fully-equipped leisure centre his pastime. I just sit back and DMacleod and MacCallum Aware of the need for a clear and swimming pool and host watch. (I think he needs a dog!) after 30 years as a partner. statement of crofters’ rights, in the most northerly 18-hole golf His aim is to increase the flock A native of Edinburgh, Derek 1990 he co-authored with D J course in Scotland. The island is and sell lambs into the market. joined the Scottish court service MacCuish the first legal textbook mostly supported by the fishing Of course I could do very from school in 1962. For a period on crofting law for 50 years. industry which is made up with little of this work and travel he was sheriff clerk in Portree. In 1993 Derek co-founded the a pelagic fleet of six boats and without the support of my family, In 1972 he entered Dundee Crofting Law Group with Keith the white fish/shellfish fleet has who also live on the croft and University as a mature student Graham of the Scottish Land 10 boats. help look after animals. Last graduating LLB in 1975. Court and was its vice-chairman My first job after I left school but not least, not forgetting the Derek took up a legal for ten years. was in the local fish factory where children – Thomas age 11 and apprenticeship with Macleod and In 1995 he became the first I was a fish filleter. I left that to William age 9, who both attend MacCallum and became a partner solicitor accredited by the Law work in the leisure centre where the local school and fit like a with them in 1978. Society of Scotland as a specialist I was until 2000. I then went cog into the workings of a very Much of his early work involving in crofting law. to catering college in Lerwick, busy household. Our older crofters was to assist them to Derek and his wife Fiona gained my catering certificates daughter Maria lives and works obtain their enhanced rights under live in Beauly. They have two and now work as chef in a small in Glasgow, but always manages the Crofting Reform Act of 1976. older sons and a daughter at establishment on the mainland, to get home for holidays and This was in the early days of the university. which means I travel each day festivities. 16 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 ON THE CROFT Bluetongue SNH launches radio tag study Ena MacDonald reports to track lamb mortality hen Richard Lochhead study by Scottish Natural Heritage announced a compulsory vaccination (SNH) is looking at into the causes Wprogramme, most crofters were very A zof lamb mortality in the north west unhappy about the practicalities of such an Highlands. The study monitors the activity of exercise. The main objections were because predators and the well-being and mortality of England and Wales were not forced to lambs in an area where a significant number of vaccinate and yet they were the ones guilty of lambs have been lost in previous seasons. importing the infected stock. The project tracks the movement and health As there were so many strains of bluetongue of lambs in parts of the Gairloch peninsula what was the point of concentrating on only in Wester Ross, from birth until weaning. one? Surely the wise option was to control Radio tracking technology and fieldworker imports? observation will be used to follow the fortunes I spoke to Richard Lochhead’s secretary of sixty lambs on two holdings in the area and S kye I mages who said if there was support for a voluntary an additional holding will be used for visual birds to feed their chicks. The study’s detailed scheme they would seriously consider it. I observations on hill ground. mapping of lamb deaths will dovetail with this decided the best way to discover if there was The study aims to deliver a scientific work being carried out by RSPB Scotland on enough support was to organise a petition. As measure of the true level of lamb mortality behalf of SNH. a result I got over 800 signatures. directly attributable to sea eagle predation as RSPB Scotland’s Alison MacLennan, This made them realise the strong support. opposed to other causes. The information will conservation officer for Skye, Lochalsh and After communicating with Western Isles be gathered via radio transmitters attached to Wester Ross, said: “We hope that the study and Shetland Islands Councils there was an the lambs to track their movements and signal will shed light on the causes of lamb mortality encouraging letter from Richard Lochhead. any mortality rapidly after the time of death. in the Gairloch peninsula, address the worries I quote: “the Scottish government would be Each death will be mapped and the carcass and concerns of the crofting community and willing to consider a derogation from vaccination traced and recovered to allow post mortem help ensure that crofting continues to have a for animals staying on the Western Isles if this tests to ascertain the exact cause of death. sustainable future. can be justified by the disease situation and SNH Head of Policy and Advice Ron “It will build on the valuable recent study by appropriate mitigation measures being Macdonald said: “Following our discussions also funded by SNH on the island of Mull – the put in place (such as testing of all animals with crofters, farmers and land managers most densely populated area of Scotland for moved on to the islands). Any firm proposals SNH has responded to concerns about levels sea eagles – which showed that a fraction of to implement such a scheme put forward by of lamb mortality in areas with sea eagles one per cent of all lambs that died were due to the Western Isles would be welcomed by the present by establishing this study. The project sea eagle predation. Scottish Government. As you may be aware will deliver an unprecedented level of detail for “Going forward with the results of this study my chief veterinary officer for Scotland will mapping the extent and cause of lamb mortality will help us manage the range of factors that be visiting the Western Isles to discuss the in typical highland conditions which in turn will cause lamb mortality in Wester Ross and campaign”. provide an assessment of sea eagle impact. ensure that the right measures are put in There has been much discussion with the The study will also provide recommendations place to underpin the vital contribution crofting council and on 22nd May the Crofting JCC on the management of stock and sea eagles makes to the economy and wildlife.” will meet and a firm decision will have to be so as to reduce potential conflict.” made. The project aims to involve local crofters On a personal note – even if bluetongue as much as possible and will be dependent didn’t exist, every crofter should be very upon their help for aspects of shepherding. careful when importing livestock. It would SCF local representative Willie Fraser, a Sea eagle story be in everyone’s interest to keep diseased member of the project steering group, said: animals out. I sincerely hope that after this “We welcome this study which we expect to in last issue meeting and long before November when the provide a clear picture of the true impact of next vaccinating year begins we will have a sea eagle predation on lambing flocks and the I would like to apologise for any biosecurity programme in place to enable us ratio of lamb losses which can be attributed misunderstandings that may have arisen to have a voluntary scheme. to sea eagles in the Gairloch area. The most from the story of my father and his sister We have the healthiest livestock in the UK. important outcome for crofters will be to help being attacked by a sea eagle. My points Let’s keep it that way. minimise this problem in the area and ensure were that: the continued viability of sheep rearing as an 1 – Crofters should be careful to do economic activity in the west highlands. nothing that would cause a feeding frenzy “We look forward to the conclusion of this in a hungry predator. study which should clarify the levels of lamb 2 – it should be ensured that feeding losses caused directly by sea eagles and is available for all animals and birds, enable appropriate measures to be drawn up including predators. A great deal of work to reduce the impact on crofting viability in this should be done on this before major and other areas of the highlands.” changes in the balance of nature are Funded by SNH, the study has been created by man. designed and agreed by a steering group As you will notice from my Brussels consisting of local crofters, the RSPB, Rural report we have been working hard to Payments and Inspections Directorate, the extend the derogation for feed stations State Veterinary Service and SNH. Its findings gained for buzzards in Spain. We still will provide robust scientific evidence alongside await the details of the benefits to other SNH funded historic studies to establish Scotland from the recent successful vote the likely impact of sea eagle predation on in the European Parliament on fallen stock lamb populations in the west Highlands. being used to feed hungry predators. SNH is also funding a programme of enhanced sea eagle nest surveillance to Norman Leask identify the type of prey being carried by adult Claire Nicolson THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 17 ON THE CROFT Scorraig Life on Number 8 Dundonnell Geese Dear Editor A few months ago I wrote a letter For about 20 years the by The Crofter’s Wife to The Gairloch Times suggesting SCF/SCU has been trying to The first of a new series that the way to make sea eagles get permission to destroy the s I write, we are about dog bark at the newly erected acceptable to crofters was to pay eggs of the Greylag geese. to welcome summer back scarecrow for hours at a time, a sea eagle subsidy to all crofters At long last, permission Aonto the croft, hoping it’ll handing new responsibilities over etc who had eagles on their land. is granted in Uist. However, be a good one. to the Wee Crofter) …or shudders I don’t remember if I suggested instead of SNH employing two It’s a busy time for everyone with – last May for example. it should be payable by the workers to carry out this work lambing just behind us, calving on- I was commencing year two of RSPB as well. I also mentioned only one person is employed. going, ploughing looming and the my Battle of the Rhododendron: Dr Mackenzie’s anecdote about Crofters can also apply for planting and tending that will follow tackling a jungle of twenty years or his stalker who shot 2½ brace of a licence from the SGRPID along with fencing and a whole raft more neglect and trying to reclaim golden eagles before breakfast. office (why was DAFS not god of summer-time chores. what used to be a garden/veggie Whatever, the next week I enough!!!) I suspect I’m somewhat unusual patch in front of the house. The nearly got my “head bit orf” by I managed to get a copy of as most people are looking loppers were in overdrive cutting some bird lover writing to say the application form. Imagine forwards at this time of year but I and hacking, my muscles aching how stupid and crass I am. Just to eight pages to be filled in always pause for reflection and, each night. With good dry weather prove how true that is and in the just to oil goose eggs. SNH while genuinely appreciating I decided to start burning some belief that the readership of The already know what damage the longer days and less stormy of the previous year’s garden Crofter is more enlightened and is being done by geese and weather, lament the more tolerable waste – anything that hadn’t been has some humour, I offer you a yet we are asked such stupid attributes of winter: cosy nights salvaged for logs or kindling – and picture from a book by W Heath questions. Surely they have by the fire, hot broth after a chilly a roaring fire burned most of the Robinson which I was given in the already done their research? drenching, nights of a billion stars, afternoon. mid 1930s when I was about four, I was hoping that the small even the ubiquitous forty shades Sitting on the gravel weeding which I have treasured ever since. islands on the lochs would of grey visible from the window the next day I became aware of Admittedly it makes no reference be raided but I was quite on a January morning. I may well lots of “cheeps” and quickly saw to sea eagles. The book was shocked to hear that was not be alone in this and put it down to activity in the hedge just feet concerned with the attempts to happening. If boats would be being born a mid-winter baby. from where my fire had blazed, rescue his nephew who had been used then there would be a I begin a new season with a and mere inches from where the stolen by the wicked bagbird. health and safety issue. I was fresh list of outdoor jobs, which loppers had reached: a nest with And our neighbour John, who thinking that SNH could have admittedly, is only ever longer three chicks. I began to observe lives on the back of the hill reports contracted the work to the come the end of the season from the upstairs window with that he saw the sea eagle quite expertise at the Uist Outdoor thanks to new observations (the binoculars but to my dismay the often in Annat when he was Centre; they no doubt have weeds have grown back there/the nest lay abandoned next morning. building the dyke round the new plenty of inflatable boats and baby needs to be kept away from The shame of it, I’d scared them bone yard there this winter. every licence needed. the burn/where on earth did that away with my fires and cutting. No Yours sincerely I’m just waiting for the twenty foot high rhododendron more cutting until later in the year, Alan G Bush day that the government will appear from) or to The Crofter a lesson learned… demand a licence for taking himself finding jobs for me (the And so, having reflected, I move The Adventures of Uncle Lubin by W Heath Robinson was published in peats home. We will need driveway needs weeded/the shed to my list which starts, “empty training on how to drive a 1904 I think. Penguin reprinted it in needs painted/can I bring those and move compost bins”, moves the 50s or 60s. tractor on boggy ground and cows back from the hill). through, “re-dig back ditch” and how to throw peats into a trailer With the cyclical nature of (currently) ends, “sort and tidy in case we hit someone. our lives my reflections wander caravan”. So, I’ll not be at a loose Anyway this scheme is through previous springs and end this summer! Just as well welcome and hopefully you summers sifting out experiences something has put a spring in my young people won’t be put off to learn from, pitfalls to avoid, step. It must be the iron tablets by the form-filling exercise so ideas to develop. Many of them the doctor prescribed me – there’s take the opportunity to try and bring smiles (the joy of harvesting no way this lover of all things cold, reduce the number of goslings the first summer fruits having dark and dreich is going to admit surviving. mastered how to keep the birds to it being the turn in the weather It would be interesting to at bay, hearing the crazy wee or the longer days. hear how many eggs there were and I’m sure it will make a difference. However it won’t reduce the present numbers Wee Grey Fergie and that can only be done by must have been worked pretty The Duisdale Fergie has large shooting parties. It is hard as prior to heading west, just finished another winter of the only solution and it’s high by train to Mallaig and ferry putting bales out to cattle and time those with shooting rights to Armadale, it underwent a bringing home firewood. Indeed, honoured their responsibilities. complete refurbishment and there are no plans to give it a There’s no point in protecting a full reconditioning of the rest as ploughing and manure crops and ignoring damage to engine. spreading are underway and grazing – both are needed for From the sixties onwards it there’ll be plenty for it to do livestock to survive. has been used predominantly over the summer. However, the There’s a big fuss about the in ploughing and hay work by Fergie has no plans to make a welfare of animals especially his particular the purchaser, Angus Nicolson, return to the small screen where when travelling. What about Ferguson TEF 20 four and his son, Roddy. Despite it starred in the 1980s British the pollution and destruction cylinder diesel came to changing times it retains its Gas privatisation adverts. of their food? T Duisdale in Skye in 1960 and rightful place as the flagship So, if you see Sid, will you tell remains in daily use there. piece of machinery under the him that? Ena MacDonald It started off life in Fife as current crofter, Innis Nicolson, a farm tractor (1956) where it Angus’ grandson. Innis Nicolson 18 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 CROFTING HEROES Roddy Steele – a prophet in his own land? Ruairdh Chalum Ruairidh 1936-1987 Long-standing SCU/SCF members will again very early at the start of these schemes remember the late Roddy Steele, a founding before many others had seen the potential that member of the Crofters Union. Here Alasdair crofting areas could get from such schemes. In MacEachen, himself an SCU stalwart, the early 80s he also obtained a Cumberland remembers Roddy and his tireless work for shorthorn bull for the township and the female crofters and the community. calves from that bull were kept for breeding stock because of the milk yield associated with he heading asks a question – the breed. The results of this improvement are perhaps, as you read this, you can make still evident today, with his home township, up your own mind. T North Boisdale, producing some of the best Being a prophet in your own land is often and most sought-after calves that are sold in said to be very difficult and I am sure that some Lochboisdale market annually. of you who have struggled for the good over As well as his union business, he was also the years will say it is pretty well impossible. chairman of the steering group that was set- Where I grew up and still live and croft to this up to take forward the building of the livestock day we have, close by in Balivanich, roads and market at Lochboisdale. This was a big cul-de-sacs named after high-ranking military challenge that required a lot of financial input personnel associated with the expansion and from the local crofting community but Roddy redevelopment of the rocket range in the early persevered even when most around were 70s. But no mention of the crofters (many of saying that it could not be done. whom experienced a very different military The Integrated Development Programme career) who worked hard on the land over which much of the military complex was to be (IDP) came along and funding for markets was built. part of the scheme. In 1986 the new market was So, in a roundabout way, that takes me to completed. Again, without Roddy’s drive and the top end of South Uist where priorities are commitment, it is debatable whether it would somewhat different and among the names ever have been built. He was elected the first of local landmarks such as Ben Kenneth chairman of South Uist Livestock Marketing Ltd (Kenneth Drive), local clergy (MacKellaig and proudly introduced the three oldest sellers Place) we find a relatively modern and the two oldest buyers at the first sale to development, Slighe Ruairidh Chalum perform the opening ceremony before the first Ruairidh named after no other than the late beast was sold on 27 September 1986. Roddy Steele – so need I say any more When the IDP scheme was first discussed about that stalwart of the Scottish Crofters there was an article in the British Association Union – he obviously made it to the top – of Nature Conservationists Journal which and in his own land. Now that is an even stated: “It is an ill-conceived, poisonous little greater achievement than all his successes plan, which is likely to destroy not just the with the SCU put together! wet machair, but the long term prospects That’s possibly not quite right. Roddy’s for industry and tourism, increase rural contribution to the SCU was significant to unemployment, disrupt stable land holdings say the least. For example soon after the and waste public money”. This sort of SCU became fully operational in January comment rang true with a lot of people with 1985, the union took on the fairly formidable similar opinions and the programme was task of reviewing the crofter housing scheme, thoroughly investigated and all environmental setting up a housing committee under the aspects looked into before it was approved. chairmanship of Roddy Steele who, by that At the height of the debate, Roddy spoke at time, had been elected as the first SCU Area a meeting of conservationists in Inverness and President for Uist and Barra. The committee gave the crofting and crofters’ point of view in a went on to commission Mark Shucksmith, calm, clear way. The response he got from his at that time with Aberdeen University’s talk was terrific and it was the first time some Department of Land Economy, to undertake of his audience had heard a first-hand account the first independent assessment of the of the methods of cultivation of the machair workings of the crofter housing scheme. land in the Uists being put forward in such a Mark Shucksmith’s report was formally clear and understandable way. His input to the accepted by the SCU Council at their meeting debate changed a lot of minds and several on 5th November 1986 and the first significant years later the Uist and Barra ESA Scheme crofting policy statement was duly signed off was introduced with payments to crofters by Roddy in January 1987. for the way that they undertook their crofting All of this work had to be carried out activities on the unique machair areas. Again, alongside Roddy’s many other interests would we have seen this without his input? and commitments. Obviously family life was I could go on, but space in The Crofter is very important to Roddy, he was in full time limited and I will just leave you with these few employment with a fish farming company thoughts of a remarkable man sadly taken and the following are just some of his other from his family and the community at such an interests and significant achievements. early age – but the memories live on in the Roddy was involved in local township examples of his good work that we see around improvements, taking advantage of initiatives us in South Uist on a daily basis. like the government-sponsored Job Creation Scheme to fund improvements to the common Alasdair MacEachen … with thanks to Roderick grazings and township facilities. This was MacDonald (Poker) for his assistance. THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 19 From our Brussels correspondent Norman Leask, SCF put these designations in place but committee meeting in Brussels the proposals exist at the moment parliamentary spokesman we may manage to move some in late May. Having met again wool would need to be transported of the pot to the Highlands and the Scottish representative in in especially-made watertight fter completing the Edinburgh and all things going vehicles. This will happen over my long and arduous journey Islands in 2013. EuroMontana would also be able to advise us to schedule, I will meet her again dead sheep’s bodies. Ato Aberdeen, the rest of the during my visit, to continue the There was a long discussion as our mark progresses. journey to Brussels was a piece process of explaining the specific on EID and it was clear that We then dropped in on Via of cake. problems to our areas. COPA, the large-scale farmers My travelling companion Campesina, who have developed The next morning we had what unions group, had changed their was Gwyn Jones, the well- out of CPE which the SCU was may well prove to be the most common position, now calling important meeting of our trip with for EID to be made voluntary for Michael Hamell and his team. each member state. Although we They are the Agri team in DG fought tirelessly to encourage Environment but, by the nature of our Minister for Agriculture to put the job, straddle the divide between EID on the agenda for the next DG Env and DG Agri. They give European Council meeting, we an input into all Agri matters which had to depend on another state to could affect the environment, do so. I will do my part but also call including not only RDPs but also on anyone who has any influence state aids. They were interested with our UK government to use it, in the UK’s approach to regional so that before the next meeting state aids, such as those operated we can convince the minister to by the council in Shetland. argue and vote for a voluntary EID Eventually we got to the main system. We and the Commission’s event, the DG Agri sheep and own advisory body advised in the goat meat advisory group. Various strongest way possible: “We are topics were discussed, including strongly recommending that the the animal by-products regulation. legislation is put in force on a The environmental section brought voluntary basis.” known agricultural consultant. involved in. Via Campesina is the up the possibility of a feeding It was interesting that one of Gwyn’s knowledge of people representative organisation for station for birds where fallen the Brussels bureaucrats said: and European protocols and the world’s small-scale producers stock could be left in the open air “Problems that were identified his convivial manner made it so and has over 200 million members. but also a possible derogation or with the technology in the 90s easy to meet what I believe are They will be a great help with our exemption for the requirement to are still in existence today and the really important people in fight over EID and many other bury stock in extensive systems. never has so much time, effort Brussels. We had discussions issues that affect small-scale Some discussion was on wool and money gone into something on EID, transport, LFASS, state producers throughout Europe. being a by-product of sheep that will do so little for health, aid, food security, local food They put us in touch with a small rather than a waste product – as traceabilty or food security.” and environmental issues with farmers organisation in Germany officials who can influence policy who are looking for support on the at the time before decisions have EID issue. already been made. We called in on the unit in DG If the land no We popped along to Agri dealing with LFASS reform. EuroMontana where I knew We discussed where the Scottish one lady, Marie Guitton, who LFASS is at the moment and longer provides... is working on the European how it is not well understood Mountain Mark – similar to what in Europe that the principle in we are doing with the Crofting Scotland is to pay most for the Produce Mark. We also met least disadvantaged. They asked the new head of EuroMontana, for as much information as we Alexia Rouby, a French lady who had to advise them on our scheme had done a lot of work for their at present and how we thought it ministry on traceability. While it could be improved. might be an exaggeration to say We also met with the DG Agri that she was very enthusiastic desk officer for Britain and his about EID and she admitted that assistant, the desk officer for small farmers in France were Scotland. They are the people very opposed to it, it was clear who deal with SRDP both when that she felt that the ministry it has been approved and when it and the large farmers in France has been monitored and reported were in favour – so there will on. Whilst discussing LFASS it be no support from that quarter became evident that no one had The only Scottish charity dedicated to relieving poverty and hardship among to prevent introduction. She felt told them how LFASS is dispersed people who have depended on the land. that fighting the imposition of the in Scotland, in fact, at one stage rules was therefore not worth it I feared that we were going to and attention should shift on how be expelled from their office as Contact us on: 0131 472 4166 to ease the costs. rogues, vagabonds and liars. or visit our website at: www.rsabi.org.uk I believe Euromontana could Eventually we promised we could get help and be an influence for prove that we were not liars by Scotland to develop a specific presenting them with facts. A great handicap and mountain area deal of work needs to be done to in LFASS if that is the way we get these very influential people up …can we help? choose to push. At this time to speed. RSABI,The Rural Centre,West Mains of Ingliston, Newbridge EH28 8LT. Scottish Charity No. SC009828 Pentland House do not intend to I am invited to attend the beef 20 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 MEMBERS’ PAGES Lewis Branch AGM still remains an important part of their lives today. Dunlossit is one SCF Orkney Area s any night a good night? of the biggest private employers SCF area representative for fortunate here to have good When should we have our on Islay, employing around 30 Orkney, Nickie May, introduces quality land but we too have IAGM? Beginning of the week? people and strives to be a major the SCF’s newest area. long, incredibly wet winters and a Middle? End? We settled for player in Islay’s development of short growing season. We too are Tuesday because we had to. You life on an island. he Orkney Area is the burdened by expensive transport see, our main guest speaker was Chloe takes a very determined newcomer on the block, costs – worse for those of us Chloe Randall, estate manager and entrepreneurial approach to Tformed in winter 2006/7. out on the islands as we have to of Dunlossit Estate in Islay. her work. She was instrumental We have 20 members scattered get stock and feed to and from Timetables and travel times in establishing a much-needed throughout the islands which mainland Orkney. dictated that Tuesday was the abattoir on the island and had to makes communication and holding The ferry system in Orkney is most suitable night. overcome major funding hurdles meetings difficult. Currently we organised as a spoke and hub We decided that once the to achieve this. The abattoir is have a grant application pending so inter-island connections are formalities of our AGM was over highly successful and the estate to help with the costs of setting up negligible, limiting all activities to the rest of the evening would be exports its meat products far and a website and holding meetings the population of the individual a public meeting. Iain MacLeod wide under the label ‘Meat Islay!’ by teleconference to tackle these islands. The nature of the ferry was re-elected as secretary and Any meat bearing the ‘Meat problems. Just like every other service and the cost means that Donnie MacDonald (oh … that’s Islay!’ mark guarantees that the crofting area, Orkney is unique generally it is a darn good job that me) was re-elected as area animal was born, reared and and so has its own take on some the land is capable of providing representative. Onto the more slaughtered on Islay. of the issues facing crofting and a significant part of our living as interesting part, then. Why do farmers farm and small food producers. I would other options to earn are limited. Brief mention was made at the crofters croft? The average like to take this chance to give an A daily commute to mainland beginning of current topics such income is (very) significantly Orkney perspective. Orkney is impossible for those as bluetongue, tagging and the below average full-time wage. Due to various factors, on the North Isles. state of the agricultural industry in Who in their right minds would largely historical, Orkney does Tourism on the isles is relatively general. It was intentional to keep do what LFA crofters do for the not have a lot of registered underdeveloped with some that brief. These issues have money LFA crofters get? Is there already had much debate. crofts. What we do have are a islands getting less than 1000 a way to balance the books? Yes I had wanted a meeting where lot of folk of like status which visitors. – and Chloe went on to explain there was no opportunity for makes the proposals to exclude Just like others throughout how. She did so in a highly negativity or argument. I wanted these holdings from CCAGS the crofting counties we too are detailed and informative way with those present to leave at the end devastating for the individuals concerned with the costs and added humour. of the night full of enthusiasm, concerned and the communities rigmarole of blue tongue and the It was a wonderful presentation having been educated and inspired to which they belong. We too threatened EID of sheep. Changes given by a wonderfully nice to think the near impossible – that need folk to stay within our to LFASS are another issue person and the perfect way to end crofting could be made profitable communities to help keep those causing concern, particularly if an evening. and indeed enjoyable with bold ferries going, the local shop open they evolve into concentrating on I would like to extend my thanks and imaginative ideas. It is a and retain all the other services the quality of the land and ignore to our chief scribe Iain MacLeod, unique way of life that must not that keep our communities the other problems we face. Neil MacLeod, Murdo Mackay be allowed to disappear through viable. Proposals to move the Enough of this doom and and Calum Iain MacMillan from political ineptitude and lack of SFP from a historical to an gloom. The sun is shining as I the council. The latter kindly understanding (I’m talking EU area basis is another area of write and we have that magical allowed us the use of the council and Westminster here!) and more chamber and agreed to meet all concern. This would represent a combination of jet black lambs – importantly, through the apathetic significant loss of revenue for an we have Hebridean sheep – and travelling costs incurred by our approach of crofters themselves. main speaker. area with the highest density of bright, bright daffodils and I would The first speaker was Roddy beef cattle in Europe. like to wish one and all a really Here’s to a productive, profitable MacMinn, area officer with and politician-free future! OK, I know that we are very good summer. SNH, who gave an excellent presentation on the Scotlish Skye and Lochalsh area AGM Rural Development Programme ohn Mackenzie, of the (SRDP). Although it is not perfect State Veterinary Service by any means and is currently (SVS), provided a very being reviewed, it is a gateway to J new opportunities. informative talk on the necessity It is a £1.6 billion programme to vaccinate against bluetongue. of economic, environmental and As an authority on the disease, social measures designed to John was able to give valuable develop rural Scotland over the advice to local crofters on how next seven years. Applications and when to vaccinate. for funding can be made by We are grateful to the following individuals or groups. Those veterinary practices for sponsoring whose RSS programme has our event: come to an end should now be • Rhona Campbell Vet Practice applying for similar payments • Old School Vet Clinic through the SRDP. • O’Connor-Pierce Vet Practice … and finally, ladies and The area committee office bearers gentlemen, brought to you at great for the forthcoming year are: expense, it’s that entrepreneurial chair – Donald MacDonald, Eynort genius from Islay, Chloe Randall! treasurer – John Bannister, Kylerhea Set in around 18,500 acres of secretary and council representative farmland and woodland, Dunlossit Sandra Holmes, Plockton Estate is located towards the For further info on the Skye and north-east of the beautiful island Lochalsh area committee contact of Islay. The estate was purchased Sandra on 01599 544203, or skye@ by the Schroder family in 1937 and crofting.org THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 21 MEMBERS’ PAGES

Update – induction courses Useful acronyms BAP Biodiversity Action Plan and other training matters BLF Big Lottery Fund BRN Business Reference Number CF is enormously grateful to HIE for stepping-in at the last CAP Common Agricultural Policy minute to give financial support of this year’s crofting induction CBGLS Croft Building Grant and Loan Scheme (replaced by Scourses. CHGS) Without this there would have been no such courses. So, with a sigh CC Crofters Commission of relief we were eventually able to run the courses in five locations: CCAGS Crofting Counties Agricultural Grants Scheme Skye, Wester Ross, Barra, Speyside and Easter Ross. CCDS Crofting Communities Development Scheme (doesn’t The initial funding problems meant a late start and whereas we exist anymore) usually start at the beginning of January, the commencement of the CLU Community Land Unit courses was delayed; some of the courses are only now coming COSHH Control of Substances Hazardous to Health to an end. Despite the short lead-in time and consequent rushed regulations arrangements, the courses have, as usual, all been well supported CPH County Parish Holding Number by eager students. CPS Countryside Premium Scheme With the ever-changing face of agriculture in general, legislation ECS Energy Crops Scheme and remits of agencies, it is more important than ever to be able to ESA Environmentally Sensitive Areas keep up to date with all the latest goings-on in crofting. Changes ESF European Structural Funds within the Crofters Commission in particular have been significant as FCs forestry Commission Scotland they have been an enthusiastic and constant supporter of this course FID Field Identifier since its inception. FIS Field Identification System After all, it is only with the continued help and support of ALL foi freedom Of Information agencies involved in crofting that we are able to deliver these courses. FUCC ferry Users Consultative Committee And, as usual, students continue to enquire about further training to FVP fruit Vegetables Potatoes take them on to the ‘next stage’ of crofting know-how. GAEC Good Agricultural & Environmental Condition These courses do not just happen of their own accord – local course GFP Good Farming Practice directors organise and facilitate them and SCF is most grateful for HICES Highlands and Islands Croft Entrants Scheme HIE Highlands and Islands Enterprise their efforts to make the courses the success that they are. HIPP Highlands and Islands Partnership Programme SCF has risen to students’ demands for further practical training HISTP Highlands & Islands Special Transitional Programme and has spent a great deal of time and energy over recent years (European funding) with its partners on the training panel to put together an appropriate IACs integrated Administration & Control System training programme. Much of the progress to date has resulted from LAG local Action Group (Leader - part of SRDP) input by Lantra and its staff members Morag Holdsworth and Liz Paul LFASS Less Favoured Area Support Scheme in particular. Sadly, both these stalwarts have moved to pastures new LMC land Managers Contracts (replaced by LMO) but their contribution to the crofting training cause has been very LMCMS Land Management Contracts Menu Scheme considerable. Their help in preparing an SRDP funding bid is just one (replaced by LMO) area of expertise for which we have been very grateful. lmo land Managers Options (Part of RDC) SCF is attempting to make our much-talked-about crofters and NFUS National Farmers Union Scotland small landholders training programme a reality by making a funding NVZ Nitrate Vulnerable Zone bid under the SRDP for an initial programme followed by a further OAs organic Aid Scheme three years delivery. The crofting induction courses are now included OECd organisation for Economic Cooperation and in this programme. We hope to report positively on the outcome of this development bid in the next issue. PCP Protein Crop Premium RDC rural Development Contracts (Part of SRDP) RDR Calina Macdonald rural Development Regulation (European) SCF Training Co-Ordinator RP rural Priorities (Part of RDC)) RPAC regional Proposal Assessment Committee RPid rural Payments and Inspections Directorate SAC scottish Agricultural College SAC special Area of Conservation SAf single Application Form SBCs scottish Beef Calf Scheme SCLN scottish Community Land Network giftaidGift Aid reminder SEPA scottish Environmental Protection Agency SFGs scottish Forestry Grant Scheme Thank you to all those members of who returned SFPs single Farm Payment Scheme the gift aid postcard enclosed with the December SGrd scottish Government Rural Directorate edition of The Crofter. We now have more than 60% SGRPID Scottish Government Rural Payments and of our members signed up to the scheme. inspections Directorate smr statutory Management Requirements If you still have the card and haven’t returned it, please SNH scottish Natural Heritage do so and remember to tick the appropriate box. This will SPA special Protection Area help prevent further mailings. SRDP scotland Rural Development Programme SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest Gift Aid means we can get back £12.60 from the TSAS technical Support for Access to the SRDP (replacing Inland Revenue for every member who signs up. CCDS) Thank you! TSE transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy UHI University of the Highlands and Islands, otherwise known as UHI Millennium Institute OFT Office of Fair Trading SHEP scottish Historic Environment Policy SEARS Scotland Environmental And Rural Services rooted in our community 22 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 S ù i l a i r F à i r e Le Eòin Dòmhnallach seo agus tha an t-ainm a’ ciallachadh Baile ‘Smuladach mi ‘n-diugh ‘s mi ‘g èiridh Uachdrach (Haerr ibustadr). Am measg gach Le Uilleam Peutan, nach maireann ìreach na mo shealladh bho uinneag ni eile a ghabh àite o sheann anns a’ bhaile a chidsin againn, far am bi mi a’ cuir seo, bha ùpraid agus mòran troimh-chèile seachad a mhòr earann de gach latha, D ann aig am strì an fhearainn aig deireadh na ‘S muladach mi ‘n-diugh ‘s mi ‘g èirigh chì mi mum choinneamh da bhaile bheag bliadhna 1886. Bha craitearan Heiribusta am Anns a’ phrìosan an Dun Eideann; bhòidheach; fear dhiubh ris an canar Peighinn measg an fheadhainn a dhiùlt an cuid mall a ‘S muladach mi ‘n-diugh ‘s mi ‘g èirigh. a’ Ghobhainn agus am fear eile, ris an can phàigheadh air sàilleabh gun robh iad gu làidir sinn Heiribusta. den bheachd gu robh an t-uachdaran a’ cuir Tha eachdraidh ag ràdh gur iad Clann Ic àrdachadh ro mhòr air màl an cuid fearainn. A Dhòmhnaill Ruaidh ud ann a Hàise, Artair a bha a’ fuireach air tùs anns a’ chiad Dhiùlt iad sgillinn ruadh a phàigheadh agus Walkigeadh air feadh a’ ghàrraidh, bhaile a dh’ainmich mi agus gum b’ e gobha chum iad oirre len cuid strì, gus mu dheireadh ‘S olc a thig an deise bhàn dhut, a bha anns an fhear dhiubh a chaidh air thall thàinig oifigear siorram (Alasdair Mòr Ged bu shràiceil air an fhèill thu. son a’ chiad uair gu taigh an uachdarain a Dòmhnallach) don bhaile le sumainnean gan phàigheadh a mhàl. Chòrd an duine ri ceann- gairm gu cùirt lagha ann am Port Rìgh. Is ma feadhna nan Dòmhnallach agus ‘s e bun a bh’ thàinig, cha b’ e am fàilte a b’ fheàrr a fhuair e, Uilleam MacArtair ‘s e cho gòrach, ann gun d’fhuair MacArtair coir am baile airson oir chaidh a choinneachadh anns a’ Ghrogaire, ‘S eagal aige roimh na bòcain; aon sgillinn ruadh de mhàl gach Bliadhn’ a taobh a-muigh a’ bhaile agus chaidh gabhail Cha tig gin dhiubh tron a’ chòmhlaidh, thuilleadh air port pìoba ur nodha a chluich air gu borb le plocan is poll, is gach ni eile a ‘S cha tèid bòrd dhith as a chèile. anns a’ chaisteal ann an Duntuilm gach latha bha rin làimh. Bha fir is mnathan a’ bhaile a’ Bliadhn’ Ùire. Theinnich Clann Ic Artair gu cuir an cèill an diomb agus aig a cheann thall math anns a’ bhaile bheag seo fo sgàil nan b’ fheàrr don Dòmhnallach tilleadh dhachaigh Tha lain Ceannaiche nas fheàrr dheth, cnoc agus cha b’ fhada gus an robh iad nan gun litir a’ libhrigeadh. PaiIteas aig’ de Bheurla ‘s gràmar; luchd obrach aig a’ Mhorair agus fear dhiubh An ath latha thàinig Siorram Ivory agus Nì e stòraidh ris a’ warder na Phìobaire oifigeil sa chaisteal. sgioba de mhaoir sìthe is iad den bheachd Feuch an ann as fhèarr a ghrèidheadh. An ceann beagan ùine chuir fear an Duine, gun cuireadh iad na ceannaircich an greim. Teàrlach am Pìobaire, a-null do Dhùn Bheagain Thug cuid de na craitearan oirre don airson ionnsachadh ann an cèol mòr fhaotainn mhonadh ach chaidh Seonaidh Peutan agus Uilleam Peuton ‘s e cho seòIta, o Pàdraig Mòr MacCruimein, a bha cliùiteach bean Alasdair Ic Mhaoilein a ghlacadh. Bha Ged nach eil a Bheurla dòigheil; air feadh Alba. A-rèir eachdraidh, chaidh deireadh an Dùbhlachd ann mus deach an Abraidh e ‘Sir’ riutha an còmhnaidh, gu math do Teàrlach agus air dha tilleadh còrr de na fir a ghlacadh agus thugadh Mar bu chòir a bhith sa Bheurla. dhachaigh chuir e air chois sgoil phìobaireachd iad do Dhùn Èideann far an do sheas cùirt aig Cnoc Phàill ann am Peighinn a’ Ghobhainn. aig toiseachd na bliadhna 1887. Chaidh O, a Thèarlaich ‘Ic-an-Tòisich, Bha cliù is urram a-nis aig Teàrlach còir agus seachdnar dhiubh a chur don phrìosan. thathar ag ràdh gur tric a thug Fear an Duine Chaidh binn da mhìos air Dòmhnall Peutan, ‘S mairg a chunnaic ort an còmhdach; leis am pìobaire aige gu Galldachd gu bhith Alasdair MacMhaoilein agus Seonaidh ‘S snasail rachadh tu ‘nad fhòram, a’ coinneachadh ri uaislean is luchd-ciùil. Bha Dòmhnallach. Chaidh binn mìos air Uilleam Dol Di-dòmhnaich don èisdeachd. e air aithris gun do choinnich Teàrlach gu MacArtair, Uilleam Peutan, Teàrlach Mac tric ri Rob Burns agus gun tug e don bhàrd an Toisi ch agus Iain MacCoinnich. A-rèir Facal beag mu bhean mo nàbaidh – iomraiteach seo iomadh fonn Gàidhealach eachdraidh, bha iad air an deagh dhòigh ris an do chuir Burns bàrdachd a bhithear ag anns a’ phrìosan agus am feadh a bha iad Thug iad i don chùirt as àirde; aithris is a’ seinn “cho fad sa mhaireas gaol ann, rinn fear dhiubh, Uilleam Peutan òran Nuair a chunnaic iad a h-àilgheas, is cèol.” Tha Teàrlach air adhlacadh ann an anns an robh ceathramh do gach neach a Cha bu dàna leo a h-èigheach. cladh Chille Mhoire; dlùth don bhaile anns an bha siud còmhla ris. robh e fhèin is a chuideachd a’ tàmh. Gu mì- Saoil gu dè a thachradh ann an Heiribusta, Seonaidh MacAoidhein ‘s e cho brònach, fhortanach, chan eil duine den fhine seo an- nam b’ e an-diugh an-dè? diugh beò, anns an sgìre. Seo an t-òran mar a chuala mise e o fhear A’ caoidh Anna Nic-an-Tòisich; A-nis, ‘s e ainm an ath bhaile Heiribusta agus de mhuinntir a bhaile o chionn leth chiad Chan fhaigh cìobair i no Nòrman a-rèir eachdraidh, ‘s e ainm Lochlannach a tha bhliadhna is còrr. Chaoidh ri bheò gu am faigh e fhèin i. Skills to tackle climate change ver a three year period, Soil is designed to benefit also those with little or healthy food culture and a future where Association Scotland’s Climate no interest in organic farming or certification. all farming is planet-friendly. Established OChange Programme will deliver Dates and farm visits for the soil management in 2002, Soil Association Scotland is the training, technical information, and support training courses: devolved national office for Scotland. to equip farmers and crofters with skills August 13 – Mid Coul Farms, Inverness and knowledge to make their businesses September 16 – Rainton Farm, Castle more resilient and reduce greenhouse gas Douglas emissions. September 24 – Great Glen Cattle Ranch, Day-long training courses look at practical Achindaun Farm, Spean Bridge and cost-effective ways to improve soil October 1 – Scottish Agricultural management, reduce dependence on inputs College, Craibstone Estate, Aberdeen and increase carbon sequestration. Hosted by The cost to attend the day-long training a variety of farms across Scotland, the courses course is £40 + VAT. For more information, cover topics including nutrient budgeting, or to book a place, contact Lyn Matheson, use of farmyard manure and conservation of Agricultural Development Officer on 0131 soil organic matter. Participants will receive 666 0847 or [email protected], ongoing technical updates and one-to-one or visit www.soilassociationscotland.org. The support over the life of the programme. day will run from 9.00am to 4.30pm. Technical The programme has been developed to sessions in the morning will be followed by have wide relevance and is open to anyone. lunch and a farm visit to see theory being Some of the techniques covered are commonly put into practice. The Soil Association is used by organic farmers, but the programme a membership charity campaigning for a sac 88x85 2/8/07 12:09 Page 1 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 23

ROB GIBSON Independent advice and MSP consultancy services for Highlands and Islands throughout the Welcomes All Enquiries Crofting Counties WICK OFFICE 4 Grant Street, Balivanich 01870 602336 Wick, KW1 5AY Campbeltown 01586 552502 Tel: 01955 605016 Inverness 01463 233266 Fax: 01955 604963 Kirkwall 01856 872698 Email: [email protected] Lerwick 01595 693520 Oban 01631 563093 Portree 01478 612993 Stornoway 01851 703103 Angus MacNeil MP Thurso 01847 892719

Constituency Office 31 Bayhead Street Stornoway find us on-line at Isle of Lewis HS1 2DU www.crofting.org Tel no 70 2272 E-Mail [email protected] Angus MacNeilEnquiries welcomeMP – office open Monday-Friday strath print crofterConstituency 88x130 090227office 27/02/2009 16:00 Page 1 31 Bayhead Street Stornoway full colour printing • short run digital printing Isle of Lewis Let us do the running around for you! HS1 2DU TelAN noO 70T 2272HER AWARD-WINNING YEAR E-Mail [email protected] Enquiries welcome OfficeHI GopenHL Monday-FridayANDS AND ISLANDS MEDIA AWARDS

Keith MacKenzie Sports Writer of the Year Murray MacLeod Feature Writer of the Year and highly commended in the Bord na Gaidhlig Award Tel: 01471 822 555 [email protected] www.strathprint.co.uk Willie Urquhart dunlop tractors 88x40 28/5/07 11:39 Page 1 highly commended in the Photographer of the Year award DDunlopunlop TTractorractor Spares Spares Aonghas Pàdraig Caimbeul a wiDe range ofFERGI, parTS 35/65, STocke DEXTA,D for MAJOR ferguSon, MaSSeY Bord na Gaidhlig Award ferguSon, forDSon DexTa anD Major, forD, forD ferguNEWSon, AND Davi USEDD Brown PARTS, an BADGES,D inTerna ETC.Tional. Send stampedOVER addressed 1800 DIFFERENT envelope, 47p, PAR forTS price list. The newspaper of the 67a cSendrankill stamped road, Ballymena,addressed en cvo.elope,A4 antrim, size, n. ireland for price BT43 list. 5nn T: 028 256567 2560 Crankill f: 028 Road, 2565 Ballymena, 2563 M: 07834 N. Ireland 455 082 BT43 or 078345NN 455 083 [email protected] Tel/Fax: 028 2565 2560 Mobile: 07710 994 190 or 07834 455083 land, the language, wwww.dunloptractorspares.co.ukebsite: www.dunloptractorspares.co.uk the people email: [email protected] 24 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 Lewis Crofters Ltd

SHEEP FEED CATTLE FOOD DRENCHES VACCINES FERTILISERS HARDWARE UPM Tilhill SEEDS CLOTHING for tree planting on FENCING TRACTOR PARTS FOOTWEAR CAR TRAILERS common grazing Lewis Crofters Ltd Island Road, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis Telephone 01851 702350 Fax: 01851 703077 www.lewiscrofters.co.uk

improved planting grants plus annual payments for 2009 CROFTING LAW ADVICE 18 years experience implementing Crofters planting schemes for advice on Crofting and Agricultural Law call from application to completion, we guide you through every stage David Findlay or Eilidh Ross locally based forest managers, free no obligation initial visit from our Rural Land Department To find out how we can help please call John McGlade 01463 239393 on 01463 234633 or 07831 608537 www.macandmac.co.uk www.upm-tilhill.com UPM Tilhill

WHEN RESPONDING TO AN ADVERT, 28 QUEENSGATE INVERNESS IV1 1YN • T: 01463 239393 please say you saw it in The Crofter F: 01463 222879 • E: [email protected] Crofter advertising: Claire Nicolson 01471 833239

rooted in our community THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 25 RURAL DEVELOPMENT Promoting resilience in Scotland’s rural economy aced with grim headlines within the markets but also to offer direct support to future business growth? deepest, most protracted global recession businesses, support industry-led action plans • can we take some bold steps to accelerate Fsince the 1930s, it is difficult not to feel and accelerate major capital infrastructure the transition towards a low-carbon economy? despondent in today’s economic climate. projects, all in an effort to get the economy While answering these questions might be But one clear certainty – perhaps the only moving again. involve some difficult conversations, how we genuine certainty – is that Scotland will emerge Recessions can typically be sub-divided respond in the midst of recession might just from the current recession. Recessions force us into four distinct phases: slowdown, recession, make the difference to how successful we to re-assess where we’re heading: we should recovery and expansion. Most commentators might become once the upturn comes. use this opportunity to make sure Scotland’s are currently suggesting that Scotland is around rural economy is focused on grasping current one year into the process with a further year, Ewan Mearns and future growth opportunities. perhaps by spring 2010, until confidence starts Policy Development Team What was barely imaginable only a year to rise (ie the recovery phase). However, since Scottish Enterprise ago – an insolvency crisis crippling the global labour markets tend to lag changes in output, financial system – has now rippled out across unemployment is not likely to peak until 2011, the real economy. Recessions caused by with the economy slowly returning to growth Draft Crofting financial crises tend to be more deep-seated from 2012 onwards (ie the expansion phase). than others and the global inter-connectedness Deep recessions deliver more than just Reform Bill of the world’s financial markets mean that this an economic shock: they can also shock an A consultation on the draft Crofting recession will be particularly challenging. entire system into new ways of thinking and Reform Bill was launched by the Minister for The effects of economic slowdown are organising. Josef Schumpeter, the Austrian Environment, Roseanna Cunningham MSP, widespread: economist, once declared that economic on 19th May 2009. • to varying degrees, all industries are downturns are “a good cold shower for the A series of public meetings are to be held affected with the financial services, construction economic system”. Not only do they stimulate throughout crofting areas in order to present and retail sectors being particularly impacted “creative destruction” by increasing efficiency, and discuss the proposals in the draft Bill. to date; cutting waste and forcing firms to do things All are welcome to attend. Copies of the • Scottish unemployment is forecast to in smarter ways, but they also prompt a re- consultation document on the draft Bill can rise to over 8% of the workforce, with greater assessment of the kind of economy we are be requested from your local agricultural area impacts expected among young people; planning for. office or accessed online at: • one in five businesses is expected to In the context of the current recession, a key www.scotland.gov.uk/crofting_reform_consultation become insolvent; uncertainty is the extent to which it will result • the value of trade from the UK and EU has in either cyclical or structural changes. In fallen by around 20% over the last year; other words, are we likely to return a familiar, Public meetings (7.30pm – 9.00pm) • while the effects are being felt across ‘business as usual’ world or will it offer new Scotland, the slowdown seems to be opportunities and challenges? 1 June – Kirkwall, Orkney (Picaquoy impacting on urban areas most owing to their Certainly, recent shifts towards greater Centre – Skerries Meeting Room, concentration of vulnerable sectors; and powers for the G20 nations, signs of a stronger Muddiesfield Rd) UK Government borrowing has now regulatory environment and the need for a • 2 June – Lerwick, Shetland (The Town Hall, reached around £600bn, with a projected global financial re-balancing between ‘saving’ Hillhead) budget deficit of £175bn during 2009/10 and ‘spending’ countries suggest that once the placing a strain on public finances for many upturn comes, the economic environment will 3 June – Mid Yell, Shetland (Mid Yell years to come. look slightly different. Rather than assume the Community Hall) rural economy “will return to normal”, now is 8 June – Inverness (Craigmonie Hotel, 3 Scotland’s rural industries are feeling the a good time for us to debate and explore our Annefield Rd) effects of recession in a variety of ways: aspirations for Scotland’s rural economy in the 9 June – Lairg (Lairg Community Association future. • along with other industries, the food and Hall, Main St) drink sector is experiencing reduced access Strong business leadership and innovation, to credit facilities, with capital investment combined with public sector investment to 10 June – Durness (Durness Village Hall) decisions often being delayed or cancelled. provide the enabling conditions to encourage 11 June – Poolewe (Poolewe Village Hall - Turnover growth expectations have been enterprise to thrive, will be key building blocks 8pm start) slowing, especially in the whisky industry; for future growth when the upturn does come. 15 June – Grantown-on-Spey (Ben Mhor • a reduced oil price, combined with weak A clear focus on the new niche opportunities hotel, 53-57 high St) access to credit and lower capital expenditure, for Scotland’s rural businesses within a global 16 June – Broadford, Skye (Broadford Hotel ) has lowered confidence in both the oil and gas context – in renewable energy, quality food and renewable energy industries; production or tourism service and products – 17 June – Fort William (Lochaber Hall, High • construction firms are concerned about will also be vital. St) reduced contracts, increasing redundancies, Within the context of the Government’s 18 June – Connel, Nr Oban (Falls of Lora late payments and access to bank credit; and economic strategy, individual businesses Hotel there is a mixed picture in tourism with and industries might usefully pose some key • 22 June –Tiree Rural Centre (Crospol, Isle of some firms managing to maintain turnover by questions: Tiree) reducing room rates and tailoring their offers. • how can we further reduce costs to Whether the relatively weak value of sterling, increase business efficiency and retain (and 24 June – Brodick, Isle of Arran (Brodick combined with the “Homecoming” effect and better use) the current skills we have? Community Hall, Lamlash) more UK residents holidaying at home, will how can businesses more effectively 25 June – Bowmore, Isle of Islay (Ionad outweigh the trend for consumers to cut back • listen to their customers to gain real-time Chaluim Chille Ìle, Gartnatra) on spending remains to be seen. market intelligence about emerging growth 29 June – Stornoway, Isle of Lewis (Caberfeidh While the recession looks set to be the opportunities (both at home and overseas)? Hotel, 11 James St) deepest for decades, it is also clear that • can we turn the economic shock provided 30 June – Tarbert, Isle of Harris (Harris Hotel) the public sector response has been more by the recession to our advantage by increasing significant and better coordinated than in our adaptability to change or by accelerating 1 July – Lionacleit, Isle of Benbecula (Dark previous recessions. Government – at all plans for business diversification? Island Hotel) levels – is providing a range of support • what opportunities are there for investing 2 July – Castlebay, Isle of Barra (Castlebay not only to restore confidence in financial in innovation just now, sowing the seeds of School) 26 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 Register for a £250 Scottish biodiversity grant his year Scottish Natural Heritage can find out more by contacting your LBAP officer. is funding 75 biodiversity awards, Members • Minimum of 10 hours spent on project Taimed at groups that will help support (can be split over a period of days). and encourage Scottish biodiversity through • Provide detailed expenditure. discount practical environmental projects. • Must provide receipts to the value of £250 What is Biodiversity? (once event is over). scheme Biodiversity is simply the variety of life. • Open to all groups (eg community groups, Biodiversity is all living things all around us. It residents associations and youth groups). These suppliers offer a discount is in our forests and mountains, our rivers and • Open to schools who work in partnership to SCF members. Please contact seas, our gardens and parks. It is vital for our with local group/s on site (not school grounds individual suppliers for further details. survival and is a key measure of the health of – and site must be accessible to general our planet. SNH Scottish biodiversity awards public). Agricultural Supplies and aims to conserve and enhance biodiversity for • Must provide details on how project will Machinery the health, enjoyment and well being of the improve Scottish biodiversity. Hamilton Brothers Groundcare people of Scotland. • A press release has to be sent to local and Agricultural Equipment media (help and advice available). Bishopton 07771 577889 Taking Action For Biodiversity • Only one project per organisation. Everybody can get involved in conserving Linklater Engineering Before submitting your application, please biodiversity. It is a shared resource and a Stenness, Orkney check that your project meets these criteria. shared responsibility. From the smallest 01856 851 000 If you are unsure whether you qualify then individual action to a national campaign, Foyers Services Ltd, Foyers please call 0131 622 7766 and ask for Robert every contribution helps! The Action Earth 01456 486333 Henderson, or email [email protected] Biodiversity Awards are designed to help Animal Health, Dingwall groups of volunteers take practical action to How to register 01349 865425 improve and create places for wildlife. This • call the Action Earth hotline on 0121 328 7455 could include: • email us for a project registration pack CSC Crop Production Ltd planting nectar-rich flowers to attract • Project registration forms need to be back Culbokie, Dingwall butterflies and bees or fruit-bearing trees and by the following dates: 01349 877557 shrubs to attract birds; Projects taking place 22nd June-5th July making and erecting nest boxes; Dean K Gilfillan • – deadline for completed forms 9th June creating new habitats for wildlife ie Weasdale, Shetland • 6th July-19th July – deadline 23rd June deadwood habitat, hedgerows, wildflower 01595 830248 20th July-31st July – deadline 7th July meadows, and ponds which become a These are final deadlines. Send in your Horner Shearing Equipment magnet for wildlife of all kinds; registration form as soon as possible. Bolton by Bowland, near Clitheroe • creating wild areas in parks and gardens; 01200 441284 • improving existing woodlands, ponds or What happens next? Building Supplies marshy areas to make them more wildlife Once applications are received a decision Highland Services Building Supplies friendly. will be made and you will be notified by post within three weeks. Tobermory, Isle of Mull How can I help to achieve local biodiversity If you have been successful you will 01688 302296 targets? receive a letter of confirmation with your Local biodiversity action plans are already Wood-bees Hardware own unique reference number (to be quoted in place across Scotland. These identify local Thurso in all correspondence) and the requested action to help protect Scotland’s biodiversity. 01847 894333 promotional material (stickers, tabards, You can find out more by visiting the certificates). Highland Industrial Supplies Biodiversity Scotland website and following If you do not get a reply within this period Inverness 01463239160 the ‘Who is involved’ links. You could also then please call the Action Earth hotline on Fort William 01397 705159 contact your local SNH office for information 0121 328 7455 at least one week before the Elgin 01343 547561 and advice. To find your nearest office visit start date of your activity. Orkney 01856 874325 http://www.snh.org.uk/scottish/ns-a00.asp Beaver Timber, Sheds, Garages Funding Criteria IMPORTANT Please ensure project Oban When planning your project, make reference to registration forms are completed fully as failure 01631 720353 your Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAP). You will cause delays in receiving a response.

Pumps, Tanks, Filters etc welfare liaison meeting Filpumps • Meetings and • UHI climate change seminar Inverurie, Aberdeenshire Scottish sheep strategy 01467 623010 • more meetings • Food Standard Agency (FSA) Trees • Cross Party Group on Rural Policy Taynuilt Trees, Taynuilt In the last issue we listed some of the • CAP and LFASS stakeholders 01866 822591 meetings attended by SCF people. • SRDP council Every week SCF staff and elected • Sheep Meat Committee Bulbs etc representatives make the case for crofting • Crofting Cross Party Group Evelix Daffodils, Dornoch at the Scottish Parliament, in London, to • sea eagle meeting 01862 810715 the EU and to the various agencies and • GM animal feeds Office Supplies and Stationary organisations which affect our communities. • Training Panel meeting Point 1 Technologies, Stornoway, Just think what would happen if decisions • bluetongue stakeholders Isle of Lewis on all these issues were made without any • SAC advisory council 01851 703244 representation for crofters. This is why it is • SRDP monitor committee so vital to have a vibrant organization with • electronic identification (EID) Furniture, Carpets and Flooring as many members as possible. • meetings with MEPs Harris Home Furnishings • meetings with MSPs Edinbane Isle of Skye A selection of important meetings • LEADER meetings 01470 582 255 attended by SCF during March-May: • goose predation THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 27 The Crofter - Protection#1FEA25 28/3/06 2:09 pm Page 1

The last thing your children need when you’re gone is your bills

Call us on 0141 225 3233 or contact your local NFU Mutual agent for face to face advice on protection for you and your family NFU Mutual Financial Consultants advise on NFU Mutual products and services and in special circumstances those of other providers INSURANCE PENSIONS INVESTMENTS

It’s an NFU Mutual understanding

NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored. 28 THE CROFTER, JUNE 2009 Passing the word CROFTERS NEED THE SCF and joining in Rooted in our community, the SCF is the only member-led n the last issue of The Crofter we drew organisation dedicated to promoting crofting and is the largest attention to the concerted effort we are Imaking to increase the membership. association of small-scale food producers in the UK. You may recall we included a membership application form which we very much hoped members would pass on to a swithering fellow crofter (one who may think about joining but THE SCF WELCOMES just doesn’t quite get around to it). In this issue we go up a gear with the inclusion of an attractive flyer. The picture CROFTERS portrayed touchingly speaks for itself by to help safeguard and promote the showing an upcoming new generation already absorbed in the culture of caring for the crofting rights, livelihoods and culture of family’s livestock – member Andy Law’s crofters and their communities. daughter Madeline feeding the family’s hens. If we were in any doubt as to why we care so much about this crofting lifestyle then this picture surely says it all. But equally, if we care so much about this crofting lifestyle we must protect it – and do it in the best time-honoured fashion of working together and by joining the only member-led organisation dedicated to the promotion of crofting, the SCF. The flyer is purposely printed in A5 format so that it can be displayed without being too intrusive in such places as community/ church/village hall notice boards, clubs, shops and stores, doctors’/dentists’ waiting rooms, garages, libraries, livestock marts and cafés; in short anywhere where the public has access and where crofters, in particular, visit in the normal course of their day. Additional flyers and membership forms can be obtained by calling Marion at HQ (01599 566365) or by email: [email protected]. Contact us now for membership details: We very much hope that you will co-operate and help with this membership drive. There’s a lot to be lost but so much more to01599 be gained 566 for 365 so very little individual effort. [email protected]

rooted in our community www.crofting.org

Printed and designedSCF by Strath AGM Print, Isle of Skye email:– [email protected] a date for your diary How to contact us The eighth annual general meeting of the Scottish Crofting Foundation will be held on Tuesday 23rd June [email protected] 2009 at Dingwall and Highland 01599 566 365 Mart, Humberston, Bailechaul Road, SCF HQ Dingwall at 2.00 pm. There will be a presentation by Richard Lochalsh Business Park Frew of the Scottish Government’s Auchtertyre, Kyle IV40 8EG Future of Crofting Team on the Crofting Bill and ample opportunity to discuss SCF Notelets for Sale Crofter editor – Fiona Mandeville the bill and its implications. Support SCF by purchasing these [email protected] One key issue for the AGM is the unique notelets depicting a crofting proposal to modify the name of the To advertise in The Crofter scene ‘Home Fire Burning’ by Susan organisation – from Foundation to Walker of Camus Cross, Isle of Skye. contact Claire Nicolson on Federation. Book your place at the £5 for a pack of 10 including envelopes [email protected] meeting to ensure you have a chance to Contact HQ on 01599 566 365 01471 833239 be involved in this important decision. More information can be found on or buy online at www.crofting.org the centre pages. find us on-line at www.crofting.org

Printed by Strath Print Ltd, Broadford, Isle of Skye email [email protected] Tel: 01471 822555