Council of Scottish Clans & Associations

Transcription

1 Council of Scottish Clans & Associations REPORT OF THE COSCA WORKING GROUP ON GATHERINGS, GAMES & FESTIVALS July 10, 2014 INTRODUCTION One result of COSCA s Scottish Clan & Family Caucus at Grandfather Mountain/Lees McCrae College in July 2013 was the formation of five working groups dedicated to working in several identified subject areas over the following twelve months. One of these was (and is) the Working Group on Gatherings, Games & Festivals ( Gatherings Group ). This is the report on the work of this group since July Membership: Members: Ken Scott, Clan Scott, COSCA Vice-President - Chair Sir Malcolm MacGregor, Clan MacGregor, Convenor, Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs Viscount Dunrossil (Andrew Morrison), Society of Scottish Armigers Ed McLean, Clan Gillean USA, Clan MacLean International Bill Elliot, Clan Elliot, 1st Vice President, Clan Elliot Society USA Hugh, Lord Montgomerie, Society of Scottish Armigers Bruce Durie, Shenachie of Durie, Society of Scottish Armigers Joe Wiggington, Clan Armstrong, President, Saint Andrew s Society of Mid-Maryland Ralph Wallace, Clan Wallace (Board), Scottish-American Military Society (Regional Commander) John Cochran, Clan Cochrane Other Repeat Participants: Susan McIntosh, Clan Mackintosh, COSCA President Clark Scott, Clan Scott, COSCA Treasurer John Bellassai, Clan Gregor, COSCA Trustee Jamie, Lord Sempill, SCSC 1

2 Meetings: The Gatherings Group has been a dedicated, active committee, with 10 teleconference meetings since the 2013 Caucus (on September 25, October 10, November 2, December 8, January 26, February 8, February 16, March 9, April 13 and May 18). The meetings were heavily supplemented by extensive traffic and telephone calls. THE GROUP S WORK While the committee s work could encompass a wide range of subjects, the principal mandate and consensus over the past twelve months was to focus on the topic of international clan gatherings (ICGs) of the sort held at Edinburgh in July 2009 and what for a time was contemplated as a second similar gathering at Stirling, in June/July This focus arose out of a perceived general desire among much of the Scottish diaspora (and at least some in Scotland) for this type of large international gathering in Scotland on something like a 5- to 10-year cycle, and a related desire or perceived need to address various issues and concerns that have arisen concerning such gatherings. Indeed, by the time of COSCA s July 2013 Caucus, there was already significant concern that, contrary to earlier expectations, planning and Scottish Government statements, there would be no 2014 Gathering at Stirling, causing much disappointment, considerable consternation and some anger in the diaspora community. The working group s wishes were (and are): (1) to promote and support the holding of periodic large international gatherings in Scotland (with possible related or ancillary gatherings in off years, possibly at locations outside Scotland); (2) to support and be part of the call for a 2009-type Gathering in 2014, in connection with the ongoing difficulties in planning and achieving a 2014 Gathering; (3) to take a considered lessons learned look at both the 2009 Gathering and the planning and problems associated with the failure to hold a similar Gathering in Stirling in 2014; (4) to share observations and recommendations that will hopefully lead to a successful ICG in the next several years and in years thereafter; and (5) to play an active, helpful role in planning and implementing future gatherings, giving particular voice to Scottish diaspora interests and perspectives. The 2009 Gathering As background and preparation for the group s overall work, we studied the 2009 Gathering in Edinburgh. 1 Some 120 clans were represented from all over Scotland and the diaspora. A 1 Some of the information considered included the Audit Report on The Gathering 2009 (Audit Scotland, prepared for the Auditor General of Scotland, June 2010), The Gathering: Economic Impact Assessment, Report for EventScotland, The Gathering & Homecoming Scotland (Ekos, September 2009), as well as an extensive personal debriefing by Jamie, Lord Sempill. In the interest of completeness, we 2

3 complete accounting is beyond the scope of this report, but various results of our discussion are reflected in the First Principles and other recommendations that are made elsewhere in this report. In general, and while the fact that some of the event s creditors were not paid was indeed unfortunate, we believe that the 2009 Gathering was a tremendous, if imperfect, success and that much of the criticism that has been directed at it at by various Scottish authorities, media outlets and others has been too narrowly focused and has failed to appreciate the overall value of the Gathering, both in financial and non-financial terms, including the tremendous amount of good will and tourism promoted in the Scottish diaspora. In sum, the Gathering generated more than 10.8 million to the Scottish economy, 2 promoted terrific good will for the Scottish brand, and invigorated continuing diaspora connections and revenue to the country. The 2014 Gathering Discussions of a possible second 2009-type Gathering began in Scotland in In 2011, the Scottish Government declared 2014 a Second Year of Homecoming, timed five years after the first one, to be held or based in Stirling, with the 700th year commemoration of Bannockburn to be part of the Gathering. The Stirling Council formally announced in March 2012 that it would plan, organize and deliver the Gathering. By October 2012, however, the Stirling Gathering had been cancelled. First the Stirling Council and then the National Trust for Scotland ( NTS ) seriously dropped the ball, with no Gathering being planned. At one juncture, there was nothing left but the Bannockburn Commemoration (albeit not an insignificant event), with no other Gathering or clan components. Following significant expressions of disappointment and dismay by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs ( SCSC ), COSCA and other clan organizations, 3 the clan dimension was partially salvaged when Visit Scotland (which took over the project from the NTS) and the event management company, Unique Events, belatedly added a reduced clan village (limited to 40 clans) and a clan parade in conjunction with the Pipefest at Stirling Castle. In short, the almost-didn t-happen Second Year of Homecoming 2014 Gathering was salvaged as Bannockburn Plus. Unfortunately, by the time this Plan B (or perhaps more accurately, Plan C or Plan D) had emerged, it was well beyond the advance time needed by most of the diaspora to note that there was also something like an ICG in Scotland in 1977, which again seems to have resulted in, or been surrounded by controversy, but we did not focus on it, as something which occurred quite some time ago. 2 A 53 million benefit to the Scottish economy (which does not include extensive non-financial values like stronger diaspora connections and good will) seems like an outstanding return on an investment of public sector financing of 490,000 and additional short-term loans of 180,000 to assist cash flow. Any of us would be Businessperson of the Decade if we earned 53 million on a 670,000 investment. 3 As one well-informed Scottish leader noted, a Homecoming without a Gathering was considered to be a contradiction. 3

4 make international travel plans. Further aggravation and damage to the reduced Gathering was caused when it became known that a secret decision had been made to celebrate the UK s Armed Forces Day (in itself a perfectly legitimate and honorable event) in the same Stirling vicinity and on the same Saturday as the first day of Bannockburn, when it could easily have been held at any number of other fully appropriate UK locations. At worst, this was a deliberate political ploy to draw attention and attendance away from Bannockburn (which appears to have been viewed by some as something of a pro-independence rally ). At best, it was a secretive, poorly made and badly handled decision that complicated and distracted from both events, at an overall location with limited infrastructure. Although the salvaged Bannockburn Plus 4 was ultimately more successful than feared, the Gathering debacle will likely, and very unfortunately, be used by some as further evidence, together with 2009, that large ICGs do not work in Scotland. 5 We disagree. In truth, 2009 was a tremendous success and 2014 succeeded as far as it was allowed to, despite every bit of poor planning and implementation thrown in its way. November 15, 2013 COSCA Letter to the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs On November 15, 2013, COSCA, by the working group, sent an official letter to the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs (Annex A) communicating the diaspora s strong desire and support for more 2009-type ICGs in Scotland, indicating our concern and frustration concerning Scotland s failure to hold a full Gathering in 2014 as originally announced, and conveying our commitment to work closely with the SCSC in accomplishing future successful ICGs. The letter stated in part: We believe that the Scottish diaspora are part of Scotland, and an important part of our work is communicating and advancing the perspectives and interests of Scottish- Americans and the Scottish diaspora generally. Periodic clan and family gatherings, including those of the larger, more centralized and international sort, such as the 2009 Gathering in Edinburgh, are very important to the diaspora and we fully endorse them.... While thousands of global Scots, including our members, were (and are) looking forward to the next year of Homecoming, in 2014, we are disappointed that more was not done to organize and carry out a 2009-type gathering next year. The planning of a Gathering around the Bannockburn commemoration seemed beset with problems and only somewhat belatedly was a clan component added to the program, 4 Public sector financing of Bannockburn Live totaled 390,000, with an additional 250,000 from Visit Scotland. 5 There may be a question or different views whether Bannockburn Plus constituted a Gathering, even on a reduced scale. With 2009 being widely regarded as the first modern Gathering, it may be that Bannockburn Plus will be considered by some as the Second Gathering. The majority view, however, is that the Second Gathering has not yet happened, and depending on developments, might be held in the period

5 with a clan village involving approximately forty clans. Many of us, including COSCA as an organization, will be at Bannockburn and despite the above disappointment; we look forward to it with enthusiasm. COSCA has formed a working group, with Scottish members, to consider the various dimensions of a next large international gathering, after We will appreciate knowing the SCSC s views on these matters, and seek the SCSC s suggestions as to what role COSCA and the diaspora can play in them. We commit to working with you in whatever ways may assist and be helpful in celebrating, with you, our common heritage. Sir Malcolm reported back that our letter was very well and warmly received by the SCSC. The Core Questions and First Principles The core questions about future ICGs were determined early in our meetings, as follows: 1. Who owns (or should own) and organizes (or should organize) an ICG? (a) Who commissions a gathering (who decides to hold a gathering, and when and where?) and makes the decision who will do it (plan, organize and carry it off?); and (b) job?) Who actually organizes and runs it? (i.e., who gets the commission or 2. What is the desired timing or cycle -- how often should a 2009-type gathering be held? 3. How should an ICG be funded and by whom? (or, who funds an ICG and how? ) In an effort to provide guidance in answering these questions and in planning future ICGs, and drawing on the experiences of 2009 and 2014, the Gatherings Group identified what we called first principles, as follows (some of which continue to be phrased as discussions, rather than a single view): 1. There should be maximum practicable independence from Government ownership and funding. As much as possible, an ICG should be a private sector, rather than a public sector event. (The desires or positions of group members ranged from zero 5

6 government funding to recognition that some government funding is probably inevitable.) 2. The emphasis must be on heritage (clans, families, history and the ties that bind), not politics. Clan components, such as a clan village and clan parade, have been key components in both 2009 and (There is no doubt that even the reduced clan village at Bannockburn very substantially enriched the event, including for native Scots.) 3. There should be historic authenticity and a commitment to quality, as opposed to cheap commercialism. 4. Neither the SCSC nor COSCA have the capacity or resources to organize or implement the next ICG, or to be financially responsible for it. A company/vehicle with the capacity to bond the event would be commissioned, contracted or formed for this purpose. 5. An ICG should be an ICG of clans/families with substantial participation of international stakeholders -- not just planned and organized in Scotland. (The principal intent here is to share the burden and responsibility of organizing and implementing such a large event, rather than to take anything away from Scotland, and also to create a greater sense of ownership and inclusion among the diaspora.) 6. There continue to be a range of views on the appropriate or desired timing or cycle of ICGs, ranging from every 5 years to every 10 years. There is agreement that holding ICGs more often than every 5 years is too often (given the effort and expense of organizing and implementing an ICG) and a gap of more than 10 years is too long. A compromise might be 7 years, with many feeling that 10 years is too long. 7. Planning and notice to the world must be done well in advance, with a published firm date. Most members of the group believe that a date should be announced 5 (or 7 or 10) years in advance, at the conclusion of any ICG or interim/offyear gathering ( In X years, on X date, we will meet again at ), in a fashion similar to the announcement of the next Olympics. 8. There continue to be different views on whether an international gathering should be centered on/linked to some other significant historical or cultural event, rather than simply holding a Gathering for its own sake. Some possibilities in the next few years include, as examples, the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I and the 6

7 Declaration of Arbroath. (The celebrated event for the 2009 Gathering was the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, but many or most people seem to have been entirely unaware of that -- i.e., it was not the reason why they attended the Gathering.) Could a theme substitute for an historical event? 9. There should be a simultaneous Clan Convention, whether sponsored and/or organized separately or together. 10. Consideration should be given to coordinating individual or regional clan gatherings around the dates of an ICG, either before or after the ICG. (The vast majority of diaspora Scots -- and probably many native Scots as well -- will not attend two such events in Scotland the same year, given the expense and time/energy commitment of traveling from Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., Canada or elsewhere.) Coordinating the dates allows a person or family to participate in both events on the same trip, if they choose to do so. Various clans and families have done so, with significant success. 11. A Gathering brand needs to be established and made continuous -- that is, that there be continuity from ICG to ICG. In terms of planning and branding, it is important to have a set venue and the same time period -- most U.S. games are at the same venue on roughly the same weekend every year. This promotes a see you next year, same time, same place identity and expectation, and becomes self-perpetuating. 12. Consideration should be given to holding an international gathering outside Scotland in the off years. This practice/rotation could begin after the next ICG in Scotland. (There was also some discussion of holding a companion national gathering in individual countries during the same approximate time as the big ICG, to provide an alternative form of participation to those who can t go to Scotland, Australia, etc.) The Survey The Gatherings Group determined that it would be helpful to carry out a survey among the Scottish diaspora (as well as Scots in Scotland) as to their views and preferences about ICGs. A survey subcommittee was formed consisting of Bruce Durie, Ralph Wallace and John Cochran. Based on their work, a survey was designed and put into the field between February and May. There were 542 respondents and 66% said that they would attend an ICG in Scotland in the future. The survey results are summarized in Annex B. 7

8 Continuing Discussions and Major Points By late April, the Gathering Group s work had reached a stage where further guidance and information was sought from the SCSC. In addition, as various discussions, meetings and events have continued, it has become increasingly apparent that our discussions might take on little additional form in 2014, given that the referendum on independence in September will dominate all other discussions until the vote, resulting in a number of uncertainties. The principal continuing issues and observations may be summarized as follows: 1. The SCSC does not have the capacity, resources or organizational purpose to plan and implement an ICG and will not undertake any financial responsibility in that regard. 2. The Scottish Government is refusing to take any responsibility for organizing or implementing a future ICG, based, at least in part, on the alleged past difficulties and failures concerning ICGs, in 2009 and Someone must undertake the role of a commissioning body, to decide whether and when an ICG will be held. For a time, the Gathering Group believed that progress was being made, in concept, of forming a commissioning body with a substantial part of its composition coming from the SCSC, but also including other stakeholders, such as diaspora representatives. Such a body would initiate the process of calling or proposing an ICG and taking the foundational steps of identifying a management and/or events company to organize and put on an ICG. The SCSC, however, has declined to support this idea. 4. Because the funding and financial issues surrounding past and future ICGs always becomes a major stumbling block, there is something approaching consensus that significant funds (i.e., a large pot of money) must be put in place in advance, perhaps from corporate sponsors, before various other actors (including the Scottish Government) will consider getting involved with organizing and putting on an ICG. A Report from Sir Malcolm MacGregor, SCSC Convenor Sir Malcolm has kindly provided a summary statement concerning many of these matters, as follows: In Scotland we do not have a history and culture of centralised ICGs. Individual clan gatherings in the regions have been going on for many years successfully, without undue trouble. Centralised big ICGs have been surrounded in controversy viz. 1977, 2009 and now

9 Any ICG needs the wholehearted support of both central and local government. The success or failure reflects on Scotland as a whole. In 2009 the Gathering was seen as a success by the Diaspora (which is why some are so keen to have another one) but a failure in Scotland, because it lost money although the economy as a whole benefitted hugely. The SCSC think that if one is to be held again and for it to be a success, it should be privately run but in close association and with the full support of the public sector. The preferred location is Edinburgh with a regional event in Inverness, in 2018 or There could be a link to the 100 th anniversary of the end of WW1. Management is the fundamental issue who actually runs an ICG? and how is it to be financed? Either a large company with experience of sponsoring big events; a management firm set up specifically by any interested party; or an events organisation used to running large international events. Either one would design, organise and deliver an ICG jointly or on their own, as Gathering 2009 Ltd did. The organisers decide everything themselves based on the commercial opportunities, albeit within a general criteria set by the SCSC. It would be for such a company or firm to assess the commercial opportunity, to find the necessary finance and to approach the SCSC/COSCA and clan network. The SCSC might commission a detailed paper for its 2015 AGM that would set out the detailed operational plan for a 2 nd Gathering. In particular this would include costs, sources of finance, sponsors and a recommended events company. Funding an ICG is a major issue. In 2009 and 2014, funding efforts were began two and a half years prior to the proposed events, with start-up capital being particularly important. There is no clear way forward. A decision needs to be taken by the SCSC as to whether it spends time and money trying to instigate an ICG, at the expense of other priorities, or the subject is dropped for the foreseeable future. As a result of the SCSC AGM that was held on 1 July 2014, it is likely that, following the referendum vote in September, the SCSC executive will let it be known to respected companies that there is interest in a Second Gathering in 2018/19. Provided that the right criteria are met, the SCSC -- under this scenario -- would then consider endorsing such an event. Any proposal will have to be agreed or rejected by the SCSC executive in the first instance. If agreed, it will be put to the AGM in 2015 for an event in either 2018 or

10 Meeting of COSCA and other Diaspora Representatives with the SCSC Executive and Others on July 2, 2014 In a landmark meeting on July 2, 2014, COSCA (by President Susan McIntosh, Vice-President Ken Scott, COSCA Trustee Bob McWilliam and Gathering Group member John Cochran) and other Scottish diaspora representatives met with members of the SCSC Executive and various clan chiefs to discuss the topic of ICGs and possible ways of going forward. The minutes of the meeting, prepared by Sir Malcolm, are Annex C. The meeting confirms our continuing active role in these discussions. Final Remarks The work of the Gatherings Group, together with the related unending work of COSCA President Sue McIntosh and others, has brought COSCA to its most extensive involvement in these and other Scottish and Scottish diaspora issues than ever before. We have built the strongest bridges and relationships ever with the SCSC and other principal and high-level actors in Scotland. COSCA is increasingly recognized and respected as an important actor in Scottish diaspora affairs. While the issues surrounding ICGs are complex and we have not inked the plans for the next ICG, we are stronger, better informed, more deeply connected and our views taken more seriously than ever before. The SCSC knows that COSCA is ready, willing and able to play whatever constructive and helpful role we can play, concerning ICGs and on any number of other matters. The Gatherings Group will continue in active communication with the SCSC and others as events continue to unfold in Scotland and will consider further the particular dimensions of our continuing involvement with the ICG topic, following the referendum and further SCSC actions later this year. 10

11 Council of Scottish Clans & Associations November 15, 2013 Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor Bt Convenor, Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs Dear Sir Malcolm: The Council of Scottish Clans & Associations (COSCA) represents the interests of Scottish clan and family societies, heritage organizations and Scottish-Americans in the United States, with sixty-two clan and family societies and other organizations among our membership. We work hard to preserve Scottish heritage and to promote the interests of tens of thousands of organized Scottish-Americans, and are happy to work closely with the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs (SCSC) on these and other matters. We believe that the Scottish diaspora are part of Scotland, and an important part of our work is communicating and advancing the perspectives and interests of Scottish-Americans and the Scottish diaspora generally. Periodic clan and family gatherings, including those of the larger, more centralized and international sort, such as the 2009 Gathering in Edinburgh, are very important to the diaspora and we fully endorse them. We are sure that both current and future generations of global Scots look forward, with great affection and excitement, to gathering together in Scotland on a regular basis. For diaspora Scots, such a trip is often the trip of a lifetime, and from this perspective, the 2009 Gathering was a huge and unprecedented success. While we are mindful of some unfortunate financial issues, the Gathering generated more than 53 million to the Scottish economy, promoted terrific good will for the Scottish brand, and invigorated continuing diaspora connections and revenue to the country. While thousands of global Scots, including our members, were (and are) looking forward to the next year of Homecoming, in 2014, we are disappointed that more was not done to organize and carry out a 2009-type gathering next year. The planning of a Gathering around the Bannockburn commemoration seemed beset with problems and only somewhat belatedly was a clan component added to the program, with a clan village involving approximately forty clans. Many of us, including COSCA as an organization, will be at Bannockburn and despite the above disappointment, we look forward to it with enthusiasm. COSCA has formed a working group, with Scottish members, to consider the various dimensions of a next large international gathering, after We feel strongly that such gatherings should be about heritage, not politics, and should be of a high quality, with historic integrity. We are also sympathetic toward, and want to support the ways in which gatherings and similar events promote, or can promote Scottish culture and heritage in Scotland itself. In all of these respects, we want to work closely with the SCSC, with two-way communication. We will appreciate knowing the SCSC s views on these matters, and seek the SCSC s suggestions as to what role COSCA and the diaspora can play in them. We commit to working with you in whatever ways may assist and be helpful in celebrating, with you, our common heritage. Sincerely, Kenneth Scott COSCA Vice-President

12 SURVEY ABSTRACT 4 July 2014 Bruce Durie There were 542 respondents Abstracted data: Predominantly male - 64%; and Older , 28%; 65+, 40% Respondent area (>10 responses) Corrected* Corrected* North Carolina 43 Australia California 36 Oregon 17 Texas 31 UK (not Scotland) Georgia 27 Colorado 14 Virginia 27 Michigan 14 Scotland Washington 14 Canada Tennessee 12 Florida 21 South Carolina 11 Maryland 21 Other (please specify) 30 * Of the Other, some specified a location that was actually on the list 6 from Canada, 2 from Scotland, 2 from Australia, 1 from UK (not Scotland). These have been incorporated in appropriate categories. Size of party (57%), 3-5 (30%), bringing 1-3 children (28%) aged 6-10 (12%), (12%), >14 (21%) Affinity/affiliation to the Scots-American community - Close (65%), engaging often (67%) and 84% participate in Scottish Cultural Events, mainly in the USA (85%) or Scotland (39%). (Interestingly, only 25 of respondents were from Canada, but 78 attend games in Canada) 84% belong to a Scottish Organization, 82% to a Clan Society, 21% to a St. Andrews Society, 12% to COSCA most for 11 years or more. Equal numbers hold an elected or appointed position. Been to Scotland many times (26%) or A few times (40%), or Plan to visit (33%) Important when choosing a vacation Cost (75%), Location (64%) and about 25% each would spend $1,001-$2,500 or $2,501-$3,500 Top 10 surname groups, by no. of respondents Wallace - 64 Cochrane - 26 Donald (MacDonald etc.), Sinclair - 15 Campbell - 14 Mackinnon - 13 Durie, Morrison - 12 Eliott/Elliot - 8 Bell, Buchanan, Donnachaidh (Robertson), Gregor (MacGregor), Maclean - 7 MacKenzie, Maitland, Montgomery - 6 Armstrong, Graham, Kincaid, Leslie, MacGregor, Mackintosh, Maclellan, Macmillan, Ross, Scott, Urquhart 5 Ever attended an ICG - 62% No, but of the 197 who have, 52% attended Edinburgh in 2009; 84% are not planning on attending Bannockburn 2014 or are not sure Would attend an ICG in Scotland in future Yes 66%, Not Sure 31%, No 3%; 42% plumped for Summer, 33% No preference; 70% would favour 2018, 71% have no interest in the ICG being tied to commemoration of an historic event Preference for length 3 days (53%); 90% would combine with personal vacation; 85% would be interested in Heritage events that support learning more of your Scottish ancestry Heritage events that support learning more of your Scottish ancestry 84.4% Communal events, such as marches and parades in which everyone can participate 61.3% Entertainment events, such as pipe band performances and dancing exhibitions 80.8% Educational events to learn of Scotland today 54.2% Camaraderie events, allowing you to meet other individuals to share your story and learn theirs 69.4% Highland Games 76.9% Piping competition 49.6% Preference for location % of those who expressed a preference Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) 42% Edinburgh 31% North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) 18% Glasgow 10% Summary-541.doc Page 1 bd 05/07/2014

13 It is possible to sub-analyse this in various ways 1. Preference for venue by past attendance Those who did attend 2009 Edinburgh, would like the next ICG to be there: However, those who did not attend in 2009 would prefer the Highlands No. % Edinburgh Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) Glasgow No. % Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) Edinburgh North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) Glasgow If this is normalised (i.e., both sets of respondents given equal weight) the preference almost disappears no significant difference. Edinburgh 35% Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) 39% North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) 18% Glasgow 8% 2. There is no difference in preference for venue by official position in a Scottidh-interest organisation, but there is an interesting consequence of age. The preference for the Highlands is predominantly within the and age groups. The young and the older have an increased preference for Edinburgh Edinburgh Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) Glasgow There is really no difference in preference for venue depending on previous or planned travel Many times % of pref* A few times % of pref* Plan to travel % of pref* Edinburgh 42 34% 57 30% 45 29% Highlands (e.g. Inverness, Fort William) 55 44% 78 41% 66 43% North (Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling) 20 16% 42 22% 18 12% Glasgow 8 6% 14 7% 24 16% No Pref * % of those expressing a preference 4. The preference for the Highlands is a SE USA phenomenon. Go, Dixie! Edinburgh Glasgow Highlands North AUS CAN NZ SCO UK US-NE US-SE US-W When normalised (i.e., all areas given equal weighting), this preference almost disappears no significant difference. Edinburgh Glasgow Highlands North ALL 33% 11% 36% 21% However, this should possibly be re-normalised on the basis of population, or perhaps population of Scots origin. There may also be a difference in willingness to travel easier and more likely from the Eastern Seaboard than the Midwest? NOTE: Universal support for a future ICG in Scotland NOBODY said Don t bother or Hold it in Mexico or anything similar. BD Summary-541.doc Page 2 bd 05/07/2014

14 NOTES FROM THE SCSC/COSCA/SAHC JOINT CONFERENCE TUESDAY 1st JULY 2014 RADISSON BLU HOTEL, EDINBURGH Present: SCSC Sir Malcolm MacGregor (Chairman and Convenor SCSC) The Hon. Alexander Leslie (Vice-Convenor SCSC) Earl of Caithness Andrew MacThomas of Finegand Alexander Brodie of Brodie Lord Sempill Viscount Dunrossil (also SSA) Alistair Henderson of Fordell Jamie Macnab of Macnab Lord Napier Arabella Kincaid of Kincaid James Macbain ygr of Macbain Mrs Macbain ygr of Macbain John Macarthur of that Ilk David Ross of Ross Fiona Ross ygr of Ross Frank Wherrett COSCA Susan McIntosh Ken Scott Bob Currie (and clan Currie) Suzanne Currie John Cochrane David Pickens Bob McWilliam Nicholas Hennigan SAHC Malcolm Buchanan Susan Cooke INTRODUCTION Sir Malcolm MacGregor thanked those attending the meeting. The aim was to have a loose discussion about centralised events, such as ICGs, based on the recent Bannockburn Live event and the Gathering in The aim was to get views and create discussion rather than drive any points for action. 1

15 BANNOCKBURN LIVE(BBL) John McArthur felt that the Pipefest in Stirling prior to BBL had been well attended and that, overall, Bannockburn Live had been an extremely well organised event which reflected well on the Event Management Company Unique Events. Susan McIntosh expressed the view that despite some early logistical problems which had subsequently been addressed, BBL had been a resounding success. Susan also said that she had been impressed on how well the different clans had integrated with people from across the world, a coming together in a spirit of clanship. Malcolm Buchanan said that it was heart-warming to see the local Scottish people turning out in such large numbers, forging close relationships that will carry forward into the future. Bob Currie commented that whilst visitors from overseas tended to become a little frustrated by long queues, the local folk seemed to happily accept waiting in line and in general it was felt that long queues are a good thing, serving notice that the event is being successful. The diaspora had initially been hesitant about attending/supporting Bannockburn Live because of early complications in respect of the on/off nature of the Stirling Gathering, clash with Armed Forces Day, and the reduction of the event from three days to two. He also stated that BBL event had produced 25 new Members for the Clan Currie Society and this may have been replicated among the other clans represented at the event. He added that someone from Visit Scotland had suggested BBL could be an annual event, albeit in a reduced format. Sir Malcolm MacGregor, in response to Bob Currie s remarks, reminded those present that Visit Scotland was primarily a Marketing Organisation and that moves towards making BBL an annual event would be made locally. The concept could then be marketed by Visit Scotland. Lord Dunrossil, Chairman of Scottish Society of Armigers, said that the event had fully met the expectations of those who had attended, including his group which had travelled from the USA. Because of the success of the event he agreed with Bob Currie that the theme could, in principle, be repeated. Alistair Henderson stated that he had been surprised throughout the weekend by the number of local Scots who were blissfully unaware of the level of clan activity within Scotland. He concurred with Bob Currie s observations that Hendersons had signed up as Society members over the period of the weekend.uppermost in many folks minds appeared to be genealogy and a great number were asking questions at the clan tents about this subject. Genealogy and roots were a major point of inquiry by the public. Those present expressed the view that comments had been made that there was no visible presence of the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs at Bannockburn and perhaps this was something that the Standing Council should consider doing in the future. (Possibly!) Sir Malcolm MacGregor stated that some clans, such as his own, had not been represented in the clan village due to initial confusion over the proposed gathering caused by Stirling Council. Bob Currie also stated that the diaspora, had in the early stages been apprehensive that the whole event would bomb. But with the event being passed into the hands of a management company, 2

16 and the inclusion of the pipefest, tented village and parade etc., the event had exceeded expectations. David Pickens said that he too felt that it had been a great success and that, for him, the highlights had been the Re-enactment, the variety of music being performed AND the story-telling. Susan McIntosh agreed with David Pickens saying that she had been surprised by how good the experience had been, especially after the very negative press beforehand. She said that the diaspora have a hunger for genealogical and heritage information and that the music added greatly to the occasion. Bob McWilliam said that he agreed that a vital component of any event was the variety of music being offered and that this had been one of the main reasons why BBL had been such a success. Bob Currie said that what had been made available at Bannockburn should be considered as the basis for the planning of any future event but that consideration should also be given to adding a Pipefest, a Clan March and, for the younger visitor, a Childrens Village. There then followed discussion about aspects of these sorts of events and it was agreed that BBL concept and elements thereof, were the minimum required. Sir Malcolm noted there was more of a festival feel to the event. There was not much of a clan gathering feel to the event as there was no games element viz piping, dancing and tartan. CENTRALISED EVENTS The meeting then discussed the matter of planning and holding of an ICG outwith UK and in particular in the USA. There was acceptance that this was possible and the meeting noted that 2018 was the 20 th anniversary of the inauguration of Tartan Day in Washington DC. Andrew MacThomas stated that, whilst he could not comment on events overseas, within Scotland any future event would only be feasible if there was sufficient guaranteed sponsorship. Lord Sempill thought that financial sponsorship was available if one knew where to go. Andrew MacThomas went on to say that Government would provide financial support as they had done in 2009, providing a good and detailed plan was submitted. He also said that given the relationship that now existed between Government and the SCSC, that SCSC involvement would be essential to success. Sir Malcolm raised the issue, as commented in previous discussions, of the possibility of international strategic sponsorship linking Games, say, in the USA with an ICG in Scotland. The meeting agreed that this was of considerable interest but would have to be undertaken by a professional consultant with specific industry experience. He had discussed this separately with the President of COSCA. Ken Scott said that he had chaired a COSCA group on the subject of ICGs since Sep First principles having been established such as: How often, ICG Brand and so forth. Ken felt that organisers had to be very specific regarding their plans such as WHEN, WHERE and WHAT IS PLANNED. Dates need to be fixed at least 12 months (preferably 2 years) in advance of the proposed event in order to attract a large attendance from the diaspora. He also commented that someone has to initiate an ICG and take it forward. It was down to Scotland to do this if the event was to be in Scotland. 3

17 He also said, that although the holding of an ICG in the USA was an attractive proposition to some, he felt that most of the diaspora would still prefer to come to Scotland, as part of homecoming. Alexander Brodie suggested that perhaps a Gathering could be arranged in a suitable location, perhaps in the north of Scotland, where tented accommodation could be made available for those attending, alongside a tented clan village and events field. Andrew MacThomas stated that the Standing Council Executive had formed an outline proposal and road map regarding the future of ICGs. He felt that if a company of sufficient stature was to show an interest in the venture, the Standing Council with COSCA and SAHC would set the criteria to be followed. The support of these three organisations would encourage Government interest and finance. The meeting then discussed the corporate sponsorship aspect of ICGs in some detail. It was the opinion of Sir Malcolm that raising finance for an ICG was the most taxing issue surrounding ICGs. A number of possible sponsor companies were discussed. But raising sponsorship was a specialism that not many understood. It was generally agreed that some sort of paid consultant with industry experience should be seriously considered if the idea was to be taken forward, as noted above. Lord Dunrossil raised the issue of a Commissioning Body, suggesting the idea should not be written off entirely. He said that any commissioning body formed should be empowered to give the chosen company a 5 year lease on promoting the event but with strict guidelines that there should be no Inappropriate exploitation. Lord Sempill stated whoever the organiser was, they had to sell the dream of an event of supreme importance where initial funding could be kick-started by seeking individual financial contributions of $ US per person in order to kick-start proceedings. There was subsequent discussion as to whether individuals or clan societies would really do this. Susan McIntosh felt that an ICG could be part of an already established event such as the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. Most of the necessary administrative infrastructure would already be in place with a ready captive audience. Sir Malcolm MacGregor stated that this idea had been considered in respect of Braemar and Aboyne Games but was considered to be complex. However, a smaller scale gathering event, as suggested, could work in concert with the Pipe Band Championships by a willing group of clans. Bob McWilliam stated that organisers of equally prestigious events in the USA do have huge experience in the marketing of such events and may well be willing to advise on the holding of the ICG in Scotland. Experience has shown that apart from all else, sponsors need cast-iron assurance that their sponsorship funding will be well spent and that they are likely to see a substantial return on their investment. Sir Malcolm MacGregor closed the meeting by thanking everyone again and said that he would write to chairman Visit Scotland and the Minister of Tourism to say that this meeting had taken place and the unanimous view was that Bannockburn Live was a great success. Frank Wherrett Secretary SCSC 4

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