Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) this week confirmed its funding support to establish a new livestock auction mart on the Island of Tiree.

AIE is providing the last piece in the financial jigsaw with a grant totalling £230,507 to Tiree Rural Development Limited - the community company driving the project forward.

Commenting on the £532,000 development, chief executive of AIE, Ken Abernethy said: "We are delighted to be able to provide financial support towards the building of an auction mart on Tiree.  This is a vital project which will help secure the economic and social wellbeing of the island.

"The construction of a modern mart will not only help secure the future of Tiree's agriculture sector but will benefit the wider community with development of the Rural Centre facilities."

Outlining the reasons for AIE's support for the project, Mr Abernethy explained: "Tiree is one of our most fragile Inner Hebridean island.  It has recently suffered from a decline in population and relies heavily on farming and fishing, industries which have their problems.  This is, however, an island which has prospered in the past and every effort will be made to help it prosper in the future."

Scotland's agriculture sector has suffered from a series of crises in recent years including BSE and Foot and Mouth disease.  In addition, the strength of the pound has exaggerated the downturn in the industry.

However, Tiree stock is nationally recognised in terms of quality and the island has preserved the identity of crofting as a way of life.  United Auctions has operated livestock auction marts at the current facility six times a year for many years with an average annual throughput of 1,500 cattle and 7,500 lambs.

The existing mart does not meet the requirements of current legislation and is incapable of being upgraded due to constraints on the present site in terms of size and location.  The new mart will be built on land adjacent to the island's airport, which has been leased from Highlands and Islands Airports Limited.
 
Tiree Rural Development has campaigned for a Rural Centre for seven years.  Their chairman Ewen McKinnon welcomed AIE's announcement saying: "This is great news and we are very grateful to AIE for their contribution to the project as well as their invaluable advice and support over the years.  The Rural Centre will make a big difference to the crofting community as well as the community at large.  Things are starting to look up at long last."

The building contract was won by Algo of Blairgowrie and work is due to start in early April with a completion date of October this year.

AIE is involved in several major developments to revitalise the Island.  Safety of the Tiree fishing fleet has been significantly improved following installation of navigational aids at Milton Harbour and moorings at Belephetrish Bay.  Work continues in the drive to secure a village hall providing a focal point for social activity.  In recognition of the need to support the Tiree community in securing a sustainable future, AIE is spearheading the appointment of a development officer, in partnership with the community and other public sector organisations.  The projects will all contribute to assuring a successful future for Tiree and its islanders.