Present Sir
William Weipers, Snab Duntocher; Father John MacNeil, Griminish, Benbecula; D
MacDonald, Schoolhouse, Eriskay; John MacIsaac No3 Haun, Eriskay;Lady Weipers Snab, Duntocher;
Dr Robert
Hill, Isle of Barra; Father C MacNeill,
Eriskay; Duncan MacInnes, Eriskay; John MacKinnon 11 Balla,
Eriskay; Angus John MacMillan, Eriskay;
George Sclanders, Eriskay;
Robert Beck, Tigh A’Bhet, Tiree; N. Patrick Ford, Langass
Lodge, North Uist; David Stephen, Palacerigg,
Cumbernauld.
Observers:
Roderick MacDonald, The Highlands and Islands Development Board, Inverness;
John Coull, Department of Agriculture; J.A. Hardie, Crofters Commission, Inverness.
An apology
was read from Roderick MacAulay of Balelone who
wished to be associated with the purpose of the Association.
Mr Robert
Beck MRCVS of Tiree addressed those present and
explained the circumstances which led to calling the meeting. A number of
people in both the islands and the mainland were disturbed at the rapid fall in
the number of pure-bred Eriskay Ponies on the islands
and were interested in any measure which would ensure the survival of the
breed. It seemed likely that they could provide excellent riding ponies for
small children, and fulfil a growing demand for a hardy friendly pony.
Following
discussion it was agreed that an association be formed.
Mr Robert
Beck was appointed President unanimously and Fr Calum
MacNeill of Eriskay was appointed Secretary.
In addition a steering committee was appointed consisting of:
Mr Ford, Lady Weipers, John MacKinnon, Dr
Hill, David Stephen (who will be a Public Relations
Officer)