This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Islands celebrate 30th anniversary
13/05/2005
The First Minister Jack McConnell today joined the
councils of Orkney, Shetland and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
in celebrations to mark their 30th anniversary.
The three councils came into existence in 1975, and were
the first unitary councils in Scotland.
Attending a weekend of special events to mark the
occasion in Orkney, the First Minister paid tribute to the
work of the councils over the last 30 years.
Mr McConnell said:
"The islands councils have made an important
contribution in Scotland over the past 30 years and I am
delighted to attend these important celebrations.
"Devolution has brought many benefits to Scotland.
Decision-making is much closer to the people of Scotland,
it is more accountable, and this has led to real
improvements in services.
"These benefits could not have been achieved without the
close working relationship between government and local
councils. I hope that the successful partnership we have
built up over the years with the councils of Orkney,
Shetland, and the Western Isles can see further
improvements in the years to come."
The celebrations include a Gala Dinner, a parade, a
service of Thanksgiving in St Magnus Cathedral, and a
symposium of lectures on the current and future state of
local government.
The Thanksgiving Service at St Magnus Cathedral on
Sunday afternoon is open to the public and will be
proceeded by a procession of representatives from the three
councils and the First Minister, led by Lord Lieutenants of
the three island areas.
The representatives will be met at the Cathedral by a
guard of honour provided by Orkney Sea Cadets. The Kirkwall
City Pipe Band and the Stromness Royal British Legion Pipe
Band will be in attendance.