Politics

TOURIST levies may be on the cards for Highland visitors after moves by the Scottish Government were welcomed by the region's most senior councillor.

A HIGHLAND MSP has called out the government on failing to deliver faster train journeys between Inverness and the Central belt.

Cllr Angus MacDonald said: 'This is good news and will be widely welcomed by everyone, especially children.'

HIGHLAND residents will get the chance to have their say on how a new National Care Service should work at public meetings this summer.

The move divided the council as some felt it was anti-religious and others discussed accountability

The figures from January shed light on adult social care in the Highlands as it teeters on the brink of collapse.

A 41 per cent social worker vacancy rate is affecting the team responsible 'for care and protection' of children.

'It's vital everyone claims what they are entitled to'

It comes as councillors fear the cost of hiring facilities in the north are 'threatening the very existence' of voluntary organisations.

A number of sports programmes have already moved but others may have to fold

Councillor Ken Gowans says 'it’s vital that the council ensures that it is securing appropriate and proportionate costs.'

The council says 'our results over the last 11 years show a significant deterioration' which is a 'long term trend'

The unique role was created in 2007 by Highland Council to champion the causes of young people across the Highlands

The Highlands could support around 400 wild lynx if the species were to be reintroduced to Scotland, an event at Holyrood will hear today.

PRESSURES that have led to operation cancellations at Raigmore "highlight again why the Highlands needs a new hospital", says an MSP.

MSP Rhoda Grant has said that "the song encapsulates the fury that is felt by rural communities."

The Federation of Small Businesses has welcomed today's news from the Scottish Government, but environmental campaign groups say it comes as a 'blow'.

Rhoda Grant's pledge came at a reception marking the anniversary of a report warning that MND patients are waiting too long for accessible housing.

Humza will have taxpayers pay for party's 'independence' lobbying through new minister

When Kate Forbes declared her intention to stand in the SNP leadership contest on February 20, many felt she was already the candidate to beat.