Councillor's Column - Councillor Dougie Philand - 14.6.24

I attended the A83 task force meeting chaired by the Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop.

We got an update of the works that are being carried out particularly for the mid-term solution and an update for the permanent solution. I asked when the permanent solution would be completed but government officials were unable to give a time line. We must continue to press for the permanent solution to be undertaken and completed.

I had a great morning attending a coffee morning at the Tayviallich village hall. It was very well attended by the village. It was so good to have a relaxing time with my family whilst supporting a good local cause.

Recently the ward councillors were invited to attend Lochgilphead Joint Campus and were met by Mr Jay Helbert head teacher of the campus. We were given a run down of the activities of the school and then had a tour round some of the classes. It was so pleasing to meet some of the pupils and hear of the projects they were undertaking and feel very reassured by the support our pupils receive from our teachers. Thanks must go to Mr Helbert and his team for all their efforts and hard work guiding our young people to reach their potential.

I recently attended two community councils - South Knapdale, which is covers Ormsary and Kilberry, and West Lochfyne, which covers Minard and Lochgair areas. All community councillors are to be congratulated and thanked for the work they do behind the scenes to help their respective communities and it is enjoyable working with them to a mutual conclusion of local issues.

Over the last month I’ve attended the Local Area Committee and Community Services Committee where the business of the council are delegated to these committees. The Area Committee in particular is one where the new administration of the council are keen to review its function and look at bringing more powers to the area committee extending local accountability. This work will be undertaken during the summer recess and presented to members thereafter for their views.

Lastly it was my pleasure to visit the local farmers market last weekend and, in particular, support Mrs Corrina Charlwood who was celebrating National Florist day. There were young pipers from the Mid Argyll Pipe Band, who played a number of tunes to the enjoyment of all.