YOUR VIEWS: Readers on the stories that have been making the headlines<\/p>\n
A previous Armed Forces Day Parade in Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay<\/p>\n
Visible links with armed forces \u2018diminished\u2019<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Ministers have framed these discussions as being about national resilience, sovereignty and security in an increasingly uncertain world.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
That visible link now feels diminished.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s wider defence and Armed Forces landscape.<\/p>\n
There also continues to be understandable public interest and concern regarding the ongoing situation surrounding Cameron Barracks<\/a> and asylum accommodation proposals. Local people deserve clear communication, transparency, and timely updates from both the Home Office and Ministry of Defence.<\/p>\n I will continue pressing for answers, updates, and meaningful engagement on behalf of residents, military families, veterans and the wider Inverness community.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Councillor Isabelle MacKenzie<\/p>\n Highland councillor for Millburn Ward<\/p>\n Castle \u2018tops the lot\u2019 for visitor attractions<\/p>\n Courier columnist Colin Campbell paid his first visit to the revamped Inverness Castle and declared himself hugely impressed<\/a>: ‘This is a major addition to the range of attractions available to visitors and many may consider it tops the lot.’<\/p>\n \u201cHadn\u2019t 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.\u201d – Kirsteen Gordon<\/p>\n Kirsteen Gordon, I guess you haven\u2019t actually visited it then\u2026.It\u2019s not about looking round a castle. The exhibition is really nothing to do with castles. It\u2019s a journey through the history, culture and landscape of the Highlands and is extremely well done.\u201d – Lorraine Mann<\/p>\n \u201cJust 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.\u201d – Mike Murray<\/p>\n \u201cI 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.\u201d – Paula Kirby<\/p>\n Call for debate on Highland healthcare<\/p>\nThe revamped Inverness Castle. Picture: Elena Reid<\/p>\n
Raigmore Hospital.<\/p>\n