Several European countries are drastically reducing the number of COVID tests performed. Sweden has already restricted free tests to healthcare staff, social care workers and clinically vulnerable people, and only if they are symptomatic.
Social media users will have more control over what they see online and who can interact with them as the government steps up the fight against anonymous trolls. New measures added to Online Safety Bill in fight against anonymous abusers.
Commenting on the press release from Scotrail Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant said: "I submitted my opposition to these proposals and I'm disappointed to see Scotrail push forward with these plans with little change or reassurance to staff and customers. Scotrail is going to be returned to public ownership in a matter of weeks so I don't see this as anything more than a cost saving exercise.
Protecting foxes, hares and other wild mammals from being chased and killed by packs of dogs is the purpose of the Scottish Government's new Hunting with Dogs Bill. The Bill will replace existing legislation in this area, making the law clearer and closing loopholes.
5,484 new cases of COVID-19 reported. 11 new reported deaths of people who have tested positive.
A very important article by Richard Murphy of Tax Research to make everyone think carefully about finances going forward. Posted on February 25 2022 As the FT has noted this morning.: UK consumer confidence plunged in February and many measures of spending remained below pre-pandemic levels as surging living costs hit morale even before Russia invaded Ukraine.
Highland council hold their Special Meeting on 3 March 2022 to agree the 202223 budget. A Council Tax increase of 3 per cent has been agreed with the main parties so it looks like a foregone conclusion to pass.
As the world begins to hesitantly open up, it's no surprise that the past two years have taught us the value of shopping local. But have you ever thought about banking local? "A credit union is rooted in the community, especially as it is owned by its members and not external shareholders," said David Mackay, General Manager of HI-Scot Credit Union.
Members of The Highland Council's Communities and Place Committee have agreed to keep the £20 administration charge for the reapplication of a Blue Badge until such time as the Scottish Government reviews its policy on the Blue Badge Scheme which local authorities administer on its behalf. Under The Highland Council’s Petitions Procedure, Councillors considered a petition that had been lodged with the Council seeking to abolish the administration charge for the reapplication of a Blue Badge.
Collaborative engagement sessions are planned with Head Teachers to raise attainment and achievement in Highland primary schools. Education Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: "Improving attainment and achievement is one of our priorities and while this is important, we must also recognise and celebrate the hard work that is currently being undertaken in our schools.
Members of The Highland Council's Communities and Place Committee have endorsed a response to the Scottish Government's consultation on the National Litter and Flytipping Strategy. The response recognises the benefits that could be achieved by carrying out research to understand the influences on littering behaviour and supports a collaborative national anti-littering behaviour change campaign.
Expanded scheme will use dormant funds from insurance, pensions, investment and wealth management, and securities sectors. Public consultation will launch in the summer to consider good causes to benefit from additional £880 million Proposals to include boosting investment in youth programmes, social enterprises and money management support Youth activities, community projects and other good causes could benefit from an additional £880 million, following government action to unlock cash tied up in dormant assets.
The higher education system in England will be made fairer for students and taxpayers thanks to major reforms announced by the government today. Student finance will be put on a more sustainable footing by ensuring more students are paying back their loan in full, and there will be a clampdown on poor-quality university courses that don't benefit graduates in the long-term.
A recent study shows that 58% of Brits have handed over their personal information that has cost them financially through new online scams, and almost a third of those who said they were successfully targeted are under 35 year olds. Dating apps and the Domino Pizza scams were most popular with 22% of those successfully targeting victims.
Education Committee Members approved the Council's plan titled ‘My Future, My Success' which sets out the vision and plans for ambitious and sustained destinations for children and young people in Highland. Education Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: "This ambitious plan will help to empower our young people to make the right decisions at the right time for their future.
Delivering a low tax, higher growth economy is set to form the cornerstone for the Chancellor's economic vision when he delivers the Mais lecture on 24 February 2022. Chancellor Rishi Sunak will set out his vision for a lower tax, dynamic market economy, when delivering his first major speech at the annual Mais lecture on 24 February.
The Highland Council is proposing a below inflation council tax increase of 3% for 2022-23. The increase together with a range of efficiency and management savings will be required to close the budget gap of £34m.
7,195 new cases of COVID-19 reported. 16 new reported deaths of people who have tested positive.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has set its budget for 2022/23. The Comhairle agreed a Council Tax increase of 3%, or 69p per week for a Band D taxpayer.
The Council will spend £91,260,200 on its services, against a Scottish Government budget settlement of £84,715,000 including £15,528,000 of ring-fenced grants. In order to meet the shortfall, the Council will increase Council tax by 3% and take an additional £11.826m from its reserves.
