Dave Thompson MSP

Following his public consultation on options for the future of Invernevis House, Highlands and Islands MSP Dave Thompson has welcomed the decision of Highland Council to invest in the refurbishment and expansion of the facility.

Following concerns that the local authority was planning to privatise care provision, the Nationalist politician decided to seek the views of the community affected and discovered more than 97 per cent were in favour of an investment in refurbishment of Invernevis House, while less than two per cent preferred moving the service into the private sector.

On Wednesday (Jan 12) members of Highland Council’s Housing and Social Work Committee voted 13 to 6 in favour of a £1.7 million upgrade of the existing facility.

Responding to this development, Mr Thompson said: “I am delighted that the findings of my public consultation were able to play a part in informing the decision of Highland Council and that the population of Lochaber can now be comforted that their most vulnerable residents will be assured that their care can be provided by an organisation driven by ensuring adequate care rather than maximising profits.

“My consultation showed the strength of public feeling about this issue and I am pleased members of this committee have listened to that and come to a sensible decision.”