Sustainability and Equalities

The Council has also made specific commitments for sustainable development and equal opportunities that guide the development of the Council and delivery of its services.

There are five guiding principles for sustainable development that help to direct service improvements and developments towards the overall Council vision. They are

• developing, empowering and including our communities
• protecting, enhancing and managing natural resources and environment
• developing the economy using innovative and creative solutions
• taking an open, honest and accountable approach
• taking decisions that will maximise benefit and minimise adverse impact across these areas

The Council has a single Equality and Diversity Scheme that includes commitments to promote equality in terms of race, disability and gender. The Scheme will be further developed and has the key principles that:

• no-one is disadvantaged because of their race or ethnic origin, disability, gender, age, sexual orientation, or religion and belief
• the differences between people are valued and good relations between groups are promoted
• people are treated fairly and with equal respect
• informed assessments are made on the impact of policies and services
• people are involved in the decisions that affect them and encouraged to participate in public life

The Council carries out equalities impact assessments for policy and service development. There is a Sustainability Assessment process to improve policies, projects and services.

Plana Gàidhlig 2008/09-2011/12

Gaelic language plan 2008/09-2011/12

The Council aims to encourage people to use Gaelic by expanding the range of Gaelic services and resources available. The Council’s first Gaelic Language Plan has established a base from which to develop.

The Plan contributes to national aims to promote the use of Gaelic in Scottish public life and to encourage increased use of Gaelic in the home, community, places of learning and at work.

The Council’s Gaelic Language Plan has the following aims:

• Identity – enhancing visibility of Gaelic, showing that the language is valued and giving it recognition
• Communications – increase the audible presence of Gaelic language by creating opportunities for the practical use of Gaelic in dealings with the Council
• Publications – making important information available in Gaelic and enhancing the status of the language
• Staffing – developing language skills and job skills