Highlands and Islands Enterprise Future Assured By First Minister

30th September 2016

MSP John Finnie Asked The First Minister a question about the future of HIE and received an instant assurance.

John Finnie (Highlands and Islands) (Green):
The First Minister will be aware that Highlands and Islands Enterprise, like the Highlands and Islands Development Board before it, plays a valuable role in the Highlands because of its dual remit of promoting both economic and community benefit. She will also be aware of press speculation regarding its future. Can she give an assurance that those two important functions will continue to be discharged by HIE in the Highlands and Islands?

The First Minister:
Yes. Highlands and Islands Enterprise does a fantastic job. It has done a fantastic job over the past 50 years and I give the member an assurance that we will make sure that it is in a position to continue to carry out those functions and provide its excellent services to the Highlands of Scotland.