Fit's in 'e Coorier 'e day

[Nwicker60]

Caithness Courier headlines for June 12, 2013

THE far north economy suffered "a big blow" yesterday when it was confirmed Caithness Stone Industries Ltd has been placed in administration. The move means 25 staff face an uncertain future. The firm experienced "severe and unsustainable cash flow problems" following increased competition, heavy investment expenditure and rising operating costs, according to administrators RSM Tenon. However, Caithness Stone Industries boss, John Sutherland, insisted administration would make "no difference to the business whatsoever".

THE developers behind a 17-turbine wind farm at Dunbeath, which was rejected by the Scottish Government, are considering whether or not to challenge the knockback. Dunbeath Energy Wind Ltd's proposal was turned down by energy minister Fergus Ewing, who said it would have an unduly detrimental impact on the landscape and wildlife. A spokeswoman for West Coast Energy agents, for Dunbeath Energy Wind Ltd, yesterday said it was considering an appeal.

HIGHLAND councillors in Caithness have been challenged to better connect with voters after the turnout at a polling station in the recent by-election slumped to an all-time low. Landward representative Alex MacLeod said elected members need to consider how they can convince people that casting their vote is worthwhile.

A SCHOOL bus service which is being axed next week will not be reinstated despite opposition from angry parents. Stagecoach is no longer to operate the afternoon service between Wick and Staxigoe which is used by pupils to get home from Wick High. Trudy Morris, who chairs Caithness Bus Users Group, is to liaise with Stagecoach and Highland Council to try and thrash out a solution.

PASSENGERS have gone on the warpath about buses in Caithness which they claim are old, dirty and prone to breaking down. But the claims have been rebutted by Steve Walker, Stagecoach managing director in the Highlands who insists the far north is getting its fair share of investment from the company.

HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned not to let themselves be conned by phone or e-mail scammers who get them to cough up in advance, for a bogus service or prize. Known to police as advance fee fraud, the mark is asked to provide payment in advance of promised wealth, gifts prizes or employment. Fraudsters typically target individuals via telephone, claiming to be from Ministry for Justice, the government, Office of Fair Trading or a loan company.

SCOTLAND'S first shared apprentices scheme has been proposed for the Highland in a bid to help tackle youth unemployment and remove any risk to the companies involved. A pool of construction apprentices is planned, allowing them to gain skills by working for multiple contractors across the region. it is designed to allow the companies to help 20 new apprentices mainly aged from 16 to 19 each year, at a time where economic conditions in the sector are still unpredictable.