This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Highland Council investing in the future of its communities
24/08/1999
Partnership between local government and communities is essential if councils are to face the challenge of delivering open and responsive local government, Frank McAveety said today.
The Deputy Minister for Local Government was visiting the Merkinch area of Inverness to see how Highland Council is working together with the community to improve facilities and quality of life there.
In a series of visits taking forward the McIntosh recommendations on local government, Mr McAveety is seeing how Scottish councils are working towards a modern system that puts people first.
Mr McAveety said:
"It's important that councils work with their communities and invest in the future of local people. That's why I'm here to see the good work that is being done together with the people of Merkinch.
"The local Community Safety, Social Inclusion and Community School programmes are all aimed at improving facilities and standards of living for young people.
"We have got to keep improving local government. It's vital both to listen and to respond to people's needs. My meetings today with Highland Council have therefore concentrated on ways to make systems more open and responsive - to make McIntosh happen.
"These discussions are about structures and systems, but we must never forget that councils are there to deliver where it matters - on the ground. We must seize this opportunity to put people first."
News Release: SE0396/99
24 August, 1999