07 April 1996 - Snippets of News from SKAT
- Letters are being written to all of the coach operators informing them of our campaign. We are asking them to write to the government if they have any complaints about the toll structure. The larger retail outlets are to be asked how the bridge tolls affect overall prices - we will keep you informed of developments.
- The new Highland Council took over on 1st April, we have managed to keep the bridge issue in the media over the last few months. It is now time for the Council to take up the fight (not that we are going to fade away just yet!).
- Liz Lachlan, a top London lawyer whose speciality is roads, and is well versed in European law, is to question the legality of the bridge tolls. We have, as Robbie the Pict pointed out in Dingwall, no alternative toll-free route within five miles of the bridge. Liz has very generously waived her fee and will work for expenses only.
- At a packed meeting on Monday 11th March in Tigh Na Sgire, Portree, we heard that Sherrif Frasers ruling on 8th March was but one view. By refusing leave to appeal, he was attempting to short-circuit procedures. This has not blocked the Appeal Courts right to adjudicate on the preliminary points raised. We each have the right to appeal if we are found guilty at trial, other legal minds may well rule in our favour.
- An application was made (and turned down) to have the Dingwall Court proceedings transferred to Portree. Most defendants and prosecution witnesses live in Skye and Lochalsh, so savings could have been made by both sides.
- If you have an idea for fund raising or a demo, please contact the appropriate secretary, or your local contact. We need fresh ideas, so get your thinking caps on! See the SKAT contact page for details.
Back to Skye Bridge News Index or the Skye Bridge Main Page
Copyright © Ray Shields, 1996.
Most recent revision, 07 April 1996.