Sam McCartney

Delegates backed the important role of Highlands and Islands Enterprise but rejected any merger with Scottish Enterpise as UNISON called for the Careers service to stay with Skills Development Scotland.

HIE's role in promoting regeneration in the area was praised but UNISON's Sam McCartney, supporting the Inverness & District TUC motion warned against further upheaval for the Careers Service.

UNISON members in the Careers Service had campaigned long and hard to escape from Scottish Enterprise, he told delegates.

"The organisation's cultures and ethos were incompatible", said Sam. "Our members were dragged in kicking and screaming and they were very happy to transfer to Skills Development Scotland.

"While members would of course much prefer to return to the Career Service to local authorities, the current situation is a great deal better than working in Enterprise. Please don't drag them back", urged Sam.