Creative Scotland

Scottish Executive Question Time — Europe, External Affairs and Culture – in the Scottish Parliament at 2:15 pm on 28 October 2010.

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Photo of James Kelly James Kelly Labour 2:15, 28 October 2010

To ask the Scottish Executive what discussions have taken place with staff representatives since the establishment of Creative Scotland. (S3O-11735)

Photo of Fiona Hyslop Fiona Hyslop Scottish National Party

Since the establishment of Creative Scotland on 1 July, there have been nine formal meetings with staff representatives from Unite and PCS. Topics covered at these meetings included job matching of existing staff, redeployment and recruitment, voluntary early severance arrangements and pay and grading issues.

Photo of James Kelly James Kelly Labour

The minister will be aware of concerns and uncertainty about the direction of Creative Scotland since its establishment; indeed, Robin Harper lodged a motion on the subject. What discussions has the minister had with Creative Scotland on its overall strategy and direction, and what action is she taking to oversee that? If such discussions have taken place, what comfort and assurance can she give Creative Scotland staff in terms of their future?

Photo of Fiona Hyslop Fiona Hyslop Scottish National Party

I am aware that concerns have been raised by some people and I think that discussions have been taking place with Robin Harper. James Kelly may wish to ask Robin Harper about that. As Minister for Culture and External Affairs, I have issued a letter of guidance to Creative Scotland, as part of which I said that I expect to see a clear strategic plan.

The organisation was established only on 1 July. The board met in August, and clear direction is quite evident in some of the activities that have already taken place. There were far more concerns in recent years, when some members of the Parliament were trying to thwart the development of Creative Scotland, than there has been since its establishment on 1 July. However, I reassure the member that there will be clear direction and it will be shared with not only the staff but the rest of the cultural organisations in Scotland.