News / In brief for 29 July 2011
Consultation over local pension service
THE PENSION Service, part of the government’s department for work and pensions, has announced a three months consultation period with a view to withdraw its visiting service to Orkney and Shetland as of 1 November.
The consultation was only agreed after pressure from isles MP Alistair Carmichael. If the visiting service is being stopped, responsibility for contact visits would pass to offices on the mainland.
Mr Carmichael said: “I know that plans for the withdrawal of local visiting services have been a cause of significant concern for many older people around the northern isles.
“News that the Pensions Service has now agreed to an additional period of consultation is welcome.
“I will be meeting with the head of the Pensions Service when I return to London to ensure that local concerns are recognised fully before any changes are implemented.”
Book of condolence
SHETLAND Islands Council has opened a book of condolences for local people to show their sympathy for the people of Norway following last week’s atrocity.
The council’s political leader Josie Simpson said: “I think Shetlanders are all still coming to terms with the tragic events of last Friday.
“Members felt that it would be fitting to make a book available for the public to record their condolences”.
The book is located inside the main door of the Town Hall and is available Monday to Friday during office hours. Councillor Simpson and chief executive Alistair Buchan were among the first to sign.
ETV removal
Council chief executive Alistair Buchan has been tasked to explore all possible political and legal avenues to challenge the UK government on it’s decision to remove the emergency towing vessel (ETV) cover from the Fair Isle Channel.
The future of the ETV cover was discussed by councillors behind closed doors earlier this week.
Political leader Josie Simpson said: “We have said all along that we consider this service to be crucial to maritime safety around these islands.”
Earlier in the week, transport minister Philip Hammond indicated that he was prepared to extend the contract for the Minches for a short time should industry funding for the service be found.
Record number at museum
Shetland Museum and Archives welcomed a record number of visitors during the tall ships visit.
Over the four days of the celebrations 4,616 people came through the doors to take part in events and enjoy exhibitions. Friday was the busiest day with 1,592 visits.
Customer services manager Barnaby Ashton said: “We have had the most amazing weekend with so many visitors across the four days.
“It’s been a superb atmosphere and the staff have pulled out all the stops to make sure all our local and international visitors received a very warm welcome and fantastic visitor experience.”
Latest Chiropractic Reserve League results
Mossbank FC 1 – 7 Celtic B
A big win for the Hoops with goals from Jordan Simpson (5) Dominic Mann and Justin Watson. Steven Johnson got Mossbank’s consolation.
Ness United B 2 – 2 Yell
Goals from Sean Bell and Martin Henderson for Ness but a Lee Jamieson double ensured Yell’s good run of points continues in what was an entertaining match.
Scalloway B 2 – 3 Delting B
Whitedale B 3 – 3 Thistle B
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