News / In brief for 23 April, 2010
Budget cuts
THE SCOTTISH government has warned that public spending will be cut by an average three per cent over the next five years, and that it will take up to 15 years for last year’s expenditure levels to be restored.
The estimates come from a review carried out by the government’s chief economic adviser Andrew Goudie and published on Thursday.
Dr Goudie believes that the amount of money the Scottish government will have control of by 2014/15 will be as much as £4 billion down on the last financial year 2009/10.
The review confirms the warning already expressed to local authorities throughout Scotland by finance secretary John Swinney that more cuts are on the way for the foreseeable future.
Bad language
THE FAINT hearted are advised to keep away from Shetland library next Wednesday evening when swearing will be ‘de rigeur’ as part of a celebration of unsavoury expressions.
The Bad Language Night was inspired by the popularity of February’s Valentine event when colourful words went down well with the audience.
Turning the air blue next week will be Gordon Dargie, Donnie MacDonald, Jim Taylor, Kat Brack and Mary Blance, with the first three reading from their own work.
Librarian Karen Fraser stressed the event was in no way “gratuitous”. Councillor Gussie Angus added: “Profanity is part of our culture and if it can find its proper place in the arts and literature then I’m all for it!”
The event takes place at 7.30pm on 28 April. Entry is free, but restricted to the over 14s.
Tall Ships sponsor
LERWICK logistics firm Peterson SBS has spent £12,000 to become the first Host Port Sponsor for next year’s Tall Ships Race.
The organising company hope to raise £400,000 to deliver a high quality event next year.
Information on becoming sponsors is available at www.tallshipsraceslerwick.com
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