Finnie: HIE merger talks “quashed”

Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has “quashed” the idea of a merger between Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Scottish Enterprise, according to list MSP for the Highlands and Islands John Finnie.

Mr Finnie says that, during First Ministers Questions earlier today, he received reassurances from Ms Sturgeon that the Scottish Government will make sure HIE is in a position to continue carry out the services in provides to the Highlands of Scotland.

He welcomed the assurance, and called for the creation of a new agency to replicate the success of HIE in the South of Scotland.

HIE, which replaced the Highlands and Islands Development Board in 1991, differs from Scottish Enterprise in that it is charged with supporting community development as well as the commercial economy.

Fears for the future of HIE were raised this week by Highland economist Tony Mackay who — after meeting with Scottish Government ministers — wrote: “One of the ministers told me that the Government is considering merging Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Scottish Enterprise.”

Questioning Ms Sturgeon, Mr Finnie said: “First Minister, you’ll be aware that Highlands and Islands Enterprise, like the Highlands and Islands Development Board before it, provides a valuable role in the Highlands and Islands. That’s because of its dual remit of not only economic but also community benefit.

“You’ll be aware of press speculation regarding its future. Can you give an assurance that these two important functions will continue to be discharged by HIE in the Highlands and Islands.”

The First Minister replied: “Yes. HIE has done a fantastic job over the last fifty years. I can give the assurance to the Member that we will make sure it is in a position to continue to carry out those functions and provide the excellent services it does to the Highlands of Scotland.”

Speaking afterwards, Mr Finnie said: “I am pleased that the First Minister has quashed talk of merging HIE with Scottish Enterprise. The Highlands and Islands faces unique challenges and opportunities, and needs its own development agency.”

John Finnie represents the Highlands and Islands region, and is the Scottish Greens’ spokesperson on Rural and Island Communities.