YOUR VIEWS: Readers on the stories that have been making the headlines
A previous Armed Forces Day Parade in Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay
Visible links with armed forces ‘diminished’
The UK government announced proposals, alongside European partners, to strengthen border security, tackle organised immigration crime, and modernise how international legal frameworks are applied in relation to deportations and public protection.
Ministers have framed these discussions as being about national resilience, sovereignty and security in an increasingly uncertain world.
Yet here in Inverness, many residents, veterans, and military families continue to feel increasingly disconnected from those same national defence conversations due to the ongoing reduction in visible military presence associated with Cameron Barracks.
For generations, Inverness has proudly maintained strong ties with the Armed Forces community. Military personnel have not only contributed to national defence but have also played an important civic and community role across the Highlands, participating in remembrance events, Armed Forces Day, local engagements, cadet activities, and supporting the wider connection between civilian life and military service.
That visible link now feels diminished.
At a time when the UK is emphasising the importance of security and resilience, many people locally are asking why communities like Inverness appear to be seeing a gradual erosion of military visibility and representation rather than renewed investment in those important civic relationships.
This is not simply about buildings or estate rationalisation. It is about community confidence, support for service families and veterans, and ensuring that the Highlands continues to have a meaningful place within the UK’s wider defence and Armed Forces landscape.
There also continues to be understandable public interest and concern regarding the ongoing situation surrounding Cameron Barracks and asylum accommodation proposals. Local people deserve clear communication, transparency, and timely updates from both the Home Office and Ministry of Defence.
I will continue pressing for answers, updates, and meaningful engagement on behalf of residents, military families, veterans and the wider Inverness community.
National security should not only be discussed in Westminster or at international summits. It should also be reflected in how we value and maintain the long-standing relationship between the Armed Forces and communities such as Inverness.
Councillor Isabelle MacKenzie
Highland councillor for Millburn Ward
The revamped Inverness Castle. Picture: Elena Reid
Castle ‘tops the lot’ for visitor attractions
Courier columnist Colin Campbell paid his first visit to the revamped Inverness Castle and declared himself hugely impressed: ‘This is a major addition to the range of attractions available to visitors and many may consider it tops the lot.’
“Hadn’t the area not got enough real castles prior? People come to Scotland for the history, culture and landscape and not a modern Highland Council Disney version of one that is going to end up a big white elephant.” – Kirsteen Gordon
Kirsteen Gordon, I guess you haven’t actually visited it then….It’s not about looking round a castle. The exhibition is really nothing to do with castles. It’s a journey through the history, culture and landscape of the Highlands and is extremely well done.” – Lorraine Mann
“Just a bit pricey – payment should allow annual visit for those with an Inverness postcode. This would allow more viewing of the excellent material and perhaps more sales in the cafe.” – Mike Murray
“I was blown away by it. It really is absolutely superb, all the way through. It exceeded my expectations in every possible way. Everyone involved in it has done an incredible job, they really have.” – Paula Kirby
Raigmore Hospital.
Call for debate on Highland healthcare
MSP for Inverness and Nairn Emma Roddick is pressing for a dedicated debate on the capacity of Raigmore Hospital and Highland healthcare at the Scottish Parliament.
“Staff are wonderful but there just isn’t enough of them. Most ward toilets aren’t disability compatible. Raigmore Hospital is past its best and Inverness needs a bigger, more modern hospital. The population is increasing. Resource it adequately.” – Pauline Pauline
“Thank you to MSP Emma Roddick for raising the issues to support Raigmore Hospital, all the staff and all those requiring treatment there and in other areas within the Highlands and Islands. A new hospital with easier access to the A9 for ambulances, staff, patients and visitors is badly needed along with plenty dedicated parking and access to public transport. A hospital fit to continue through 21st century and move with medical advances.” – Jean Munro
“If only patients from Edinburgh or Glasgow had to make their way to Raigmore for treatment, then maybe something would actually get done. Not just about Raigmore, but local hospitals too.” – Ruth McFadyen
“Instead of spending millions on trying to update Raigmore a new hospital should be built on a new site with direct access for ambulances to the A9. The theatres are not to standard size, making working environments very cramped. There is not enough beds for half the population of the Highlands, let alone visitors.” – Kirk Channer
“Bearing in mind Raigmore was designed in the 60s built in the 80s it is no wonder it operates at capacity. Inverness has an increased population and age group all dependant on Raigmore, the whole service requires to be reassessed with care in the community being a priority.” – Winifred MacDonald
“A new hospital would be great but also what is needed is new government/NHS-run care homes. The waiting time for most patients stuck in hospital waiting for a care home space is horrific.” – Sinead Macrae
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