Sir,
Despite public inactivity from local politicians and attempts to stifle debate supporters of Lionel School S1/S2 provision remain focused on saving their school.
I welcomed the interest from our MP and MSP to engage with the parents since the Comhairle voted, by a casting vote, to cease the provision of S1/S2 in Lionel at the end of this school term.
However, all seems to have gone quiet which seems to suggest there will be no formal public stance taken by either before the submission deadline. I am disappointed but not surprised by this. I also fail to understand why both of them did not engage in dialogue with the Comhairle from the very outset on this.
It has also emerged that the Comhairle chairperson at the public meeting held in Ness on 30 September 2014 told the ward councillors present not to speak at the meeting as it would not be appropriate. All of this kind of behaviour going on in times we are constantly being told of openness and honesty from those who make decisions regarding our futures.
Letter: Fight to save school goes on
3 March 2015
The Scottish Government must, and will, consider the arguments carefully before reaching their decision, in fear of going against its Commission on Delivery of Rural Education document that was published in 2013.
The Scottish Ministers may issue a call-
(2)This subsection applies where it appears to the Scottish Ministers that the education
authority may have failed -
(a) In a significant regard to comply with the requirements imposed on it by (or under) this Act so far as they are relevant in relation to the closure proposal, or
(b) To take proper account of a material consideration relevant to its decision to implement the proposal
The supporters’ arguments are strong, well thought and legitimate. There is a strong belief that this appeal will be successful but not because of the efforts from the individuals I would expect but from the dedicated parents and supporters of the school.
I for one am fully behind their efforts and have submitted my own full responses in support of retaining S1/S2 provision and I expect the Scottish Government to listen to the parents and back them.
Alistair MacLennan
Forthcoming Councillor for An Taobh Siar agus Nis Ward
2 Newton Street
Stornoway