Issue - meetings

Report presented by Robert Beauchamp, Centre for Economics and Business Research

The Group considered a presentation by Robert Beachaump. It was highlighted that the Phase 2 report was an quantitative analysis of the impacts of CalMac as a company (employment, Gross Value Added, turnover, and employee compensation supported directly and through the supply chain) and of impacts of service levels on island communities (ferry users’ welfare, economic activity, employment, population), based on Phase 1 findings, desk research, analysis, fieldwork, and socio-economic modelling.

Councillor Gordon Blair highlighted that the Dunoon to Gourock passenger ferry is in need of improvement.

Reeni Kennedy-Boyle advised that the report didn’t seem to have much input from Bute, adding that only 1 major employer was involved and highlighted that Bute’s economy is based on small businesses or family businesses who rely on Calmac for their supply chain. Robert added that they had had some good conversations on Bute but added that they were time limited.

Decision

The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Report by Senior Economist Centre for Economics and Business Research, submitted)