The Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning has praised the commitment and enthusiasm of community groups across Argyll and the Islands.

Lewis Macdonald was attending at the Argyll and the Islands Community Economic Development (CED) conference at Stonefield Caste, Tarbet earlier today (Monday 26th January).

Speaking at the event, Mr Macdonald said he was extremely impressed by the number of community groups in the region and added that their hard-work was vital in sustaining strong, vibrant communities.

Mr Macdonald said: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to highlight the importance of the Community Economic Development initiative.  It is an important element of the European funding provided through the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme. 

"Projects play a very important role in the Highlands and Islands, allowing local people the opportunity to fully participate in community life.

"The high attendance at today's event proves that community groups are thriving across the region.  These groups are vital to the well-being of each area and so much excellent work is carried out for the benefit of everyone living there."

A total of 70 groups attended the event today, which provided an opportunity for community groups to share examples of best practice and network with key partners in the field of community economic development.  Over 100 delegates also had the opportunity to provide valuable feedback to help shape the future of community economic development programmes.

Today's conference - part-funded by Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) - was organised by the local CED programme partnership.  Its manager, Clare Strain said: "The CED programme is part-financed by the European Union under the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme and aims to facilitate 'bottom-up' community development through an integrated package of actions at local level.  To date the programme has provided financial support to over 50 community groups."

Ken Abernethy, chief executive of AIE said: "Those attending this conference have come from all over the region - some from very remote areas.  As well as the direct educational benefits, these events also give attendees a chance to meet like-minded individuals to share experiences and to often gain inspiration from others.

"We are extremely grateful to the Minister for attending today's conference and for providing our community groups with praise and encouragement."