Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson MSP for Skye and Lochalsh is writing to everyone on the Raasay Electoral Register seeking their views on the best way forward for the community.

Mr Thompson said, “The silver lining from the issue with the Sporting Lease is that all eyes are now on the romantic island of Raasay. A great deal of good will has been generated too. Maybe this is a good time to consider whether, and this has to come from the wishes of the Raasay Community, there is wider benefit to be had.

“The Community is already looking at buying the Forestry Estate emulating the recent successful purchase of the Forestry Estate on Sleat and I would like their views on wider community ownership.

“I am asking whether the substantial resources available for community buyout these days can and should be mobilised to secure a very rosy picture for the future of Raasay and its community.

“Despite the very substantial financial and advisory support that has been made available in the past few years by the Scottish Government and others to support Community buyouts, ultimately the responsibility lies with the Community to make it a success, so this course can only proceed with the Raasay Community’s support."

Note:

Letter to Raasay Residents and Reply Form attached below:

Dear

Following resolution of the sporting lease issue I thought I should write to you as your local MSP to get your thoughts on the way forward.

As you know I became involved in the award of the lease when it was first raised with me on 14th January. My office immediately approached the Civil Servants involved and I had discussions in Parliament with the Minister. The difficulty was that a contractual commitment had been entered into. Correcting this meant breaking this commitment which can prove to be difficult and expensive. Fortunately, the Minister, Paul Wheelhouse, managed to reach an agreement with South Ayrshire Stalking which was not too onerous. This allowed the Government to reinstate the rights to the Raasay crofters for a year. The next step will be a consultation over how best to deal with the sporting rights.

As you will know, I have floated the idea of Community ownership of Raasay including the crofting estate and the Forestry Commission land. There is much help and assistance available now for communities who wish to pursue this route. Additionally, there are many successful examples to emulate. The big gain is it would ensure your future is in your own hands.

I am aware that Community ownership is not supported by everyone. So, in order to gauge support, could you send the reply form attached to this letter back to me, anonymously if you wish? This will allow me to consider how best to assist you take the matter forward.

Yours faithfully

Dave Thompson MSP
Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch (SNP)
Constituency Office
Thorfin House
Bridgend Business Park
Dingwall

Reply Form

(Please reply in the Stamped Addressed envelope enclosed)

A Community proposing a buyout can seek funds from a number of sources. These may include Scottish Government, UK Government and EU schemes as well as others like the Big Lottery Fund.

Additionally, there are a number of agencies that are designed to supply support and advice in setting the Buyout up and in supporting the initial development of the community once the buyout has occurred.

If you wish to express a view could you fill out your details below, and add your thoughts (If you want your personal details withheld either do not complete the personal details below or indicate this at point 4. below).

Name:

Address:

Postcode

Email:

Tel:

Would you welcome full Community Ownership of Raasay?

Would you wish Community ownership restricted to Forestry Land?

Or the Crofting Estate only?

Would you like us to supply you with Information on the process?

Do you wish to remain anonymous?

Would you like to give your detailed views below?