The Highland Council is giving top priority to tackling the impacts on Highland communities of the Credit Crunch and large rises in energy bills.

A task force of councillors and officials has been set up to effectively respond to the downturn in the economy.

Already the Council has organised seminars to identify how best to help the local construction industry find work during the recession and how local food producers can find new markets.

A 20-point action plan has been drafted and a major report will be presented to the next full Council meeting on 18 December.

In the first instance, the Council is eager to work even more closely with partner agencies and the voluntary sector to help more people access benefits they are entitled to; offering money advice to those experiencing difficulty in paying their bills; and giving advice on how to reduce energy bills.

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Councillor Michael Foxley, Leader of the Council’s Administration, said the Council intends to use its leadership role to help house builders and construction companies find work and offer support to small businesses through business support and advice and by paying bills promptly: "It is essential that we do all that we can, together with our partners, to retain the current capacity of the construction industry in the Highlands. We intend to accelerate our £60m capital programme of work from new schools to minor projects to housebuilding to keep the order books busy."

Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Chairman of the Resources Committee, said the Council is committed to mitigating the local impacts of the recession.

She said: "There is evidence all around us that the downturn in the economy, together with large increases in energy bills, is having a serious impact on individuals and businesses. We have a strong role to play in trying to help our communities through these difficult times and we want to send out a clear message that we care about those facing hardship and that we are here to help, wherever we can. The Council is also keen to promote the culture of being a good neighbour and assisting those most vulnerable in our society."

(GK/JM)