Monday 29 September 2003
Lighthouse Museum, Fraserburgh

This seminar will examine the evidence of change in the economy and labour markets of rural areas in the East of Scotland. Using data gathered for the ESEP labour market service and other sources, John Lord's presentation will reflect the changing industry structure of the rural economy and the effects of decline in agriculture and fishing. Among the themes to be discussed are: the evidence of a 'two-speed' rural economy; the suburbanisation of the countryside, and the changing role of local centres; the emergence of a 'new rural economy'; hidden unemployment and rural poverty.

Professor Mark Shucksmith is Co-Director of the Arkleton Centre for Rural Development at the University of Aberdeen. He is one of the UK's leading authorities on rural economic development. Professor Shucksmith will provide an expert commentary on the issues raised in the presentation, and identify issues and challenges for public sector bodies and policy makers. Following a panel discussion, ESEP's Programme Director, Gordon McLaren, will summarise the key messages from the day and highlight opportunities to use European funding to tackle the challenge of rural development.

Previous page