Perth and Kinross Economic Partnership.

"The highest proof of virtue is to possess boundless power without abusing it". Lord Macaulay

Coming shortly - Economic Development Strategy. Download the draft copy it's good for a laugh!

In a nutshell, the saving of Perthshire will be done by:

The building of another large hotel

A logo

Tourism - global warming and rising costs not taken into account!

A garden - did anyone think about the other meaning of Calyx which is a structural component of the mammalian kidney. So they really are taking the p***

More to follow next week....................

Still thinking of coming to live in Perthshire, relocate your business to Perthshire or try and set up a new business here - read on then decide

More bad news for Perth and Kinross Council

Chief Executive Bernadette Malone's recent annual report comments:

"There is a mixed picture in terms of economic growth, with average earnings an area that continues to give some concern".

Average earnings in Perth and Kinross continue to be lower than in the rest of Tayside and Scotland

Ken MacDonald head of economic development tried to play down these findings and claimed: “As an indicator, the average hourly earnings reflect the quality of jobs included in the survey. Nevertheless it is an area we are working on.”

Comment. There are no decent jobs in Perthshire and where's the evidence you are trying to address this?

Most exam results in secondary schools were said to be below the average for similar authorities in 2004

Councillor Willie Wilson states: “There is no room for sitting back and resting on our laurels,”

Comment. You have rested on your laurels which is why Perthshire is in such a mess

The provision of affordable housing for rent and shared ownership fell below target

Councillor Willie Wilson admitted 'our performance so far has been a disappointment.”

Comment. the councils performance in all areas is a disappointment except when it comes to looking after themselves or lining their own individual pockets.

Anti social behaviour was mentioned as a cause for concern but don't worry as councillor Jimmy Doig declared that "Money will be put aside to reduce the fear of crime. I know there is a strong emphasis on high visibility policing and that gives people confidence."

Comment. Well that should prove interesting given the recently reported low morale problems in the allegedly badly managed Tayside police force.

So Ms Malone, the 'mixed picture in terms of economic growth' doesn't look mixed to the people of Perthshire - it all looks pretty bad!

"Avoid the crowd. Do your own thinking independently. Be the chess player, not the chess piece".

Ralph Charell