PRESENT:

Sandy Brunton, Michael Ackerley, John Cable, Derek Crook, Georgia O’Neill

APOLOGIES:

Olive Brown , Tom Bettley, Chris Reade, Jo Currie

MINUTES:

December’s minutes proposed by Derek, seconded by John.

Sandy wished everyone a Happy New Year and Georgia forced all present to eat (lovely) Christmas cake.

MATTERS ARISING:

Michael was thanked for his news article which featured on the front page of Am Muileach.

Sandy has emailed Glasgow Chamber about the roads and is awaiting a reply.

Travel Expo  MICT have been approached about sharing costs for new display boards but it was felt that the boards were only relevant to the Expo.  Dave Currie has volunteered to attend the Expo.  Sandy has contacted Maureen about Abby Kirsop attending the Expo.  John has contacted HWDT about using photos.

Annual Dinner  John contacted the Glenforsa but the owners are away until February.  John Purvis (List MEP) would be willing to come as guest speaker on 11^th or 18^th March.  Everyone agreed to look out for other events on Mull that might clash with these two dates.

Postwatch  Venue and date still to be decided, a proposed date of 22^nd February 12.00 – 3.00pm being suggested.  John will see if the Isle of Mull Hotel is available, the Craignure Hall being busy every Wednesday afternoon.

Parking  Thanks to Joe Reade for writing to the Council, on behalf of the Chamber, about the proposed parking charges in Tobermory.

TRANSPORT:

Sandy reported on the last meeting of the Keep Mull Moving campaign.  The Council is now funding the economic impact study, which will start soon.

TOURISM:

John is progressing with the display boards.  There have been several volunteers offering to help at the Travel Expo.

MARINE PARK:

John brought details from the SNH website about marine parks.  His summary of this information will be put onto our website for members to read.

PRESIDENT:

Sandy received a letter about a Clan MacPhail gathering, apparently being held in Canada.  Although it appeared to be an invitation for us all to go to Canada with our bagpipes, there was no offer of funding for the trip.

WEBSITE:

Bill for Zynet hosting received.

SECRETARY:

<Georgia>  Will ask Debbie Lyndley about auditing.

TREASURER:

No report in Tom’s absence.

AOCB:

Renewable Energy Forum – Michael asked about any progress with the forum as there have been several cancelled meetings.  Topic to be discussed next month.