New project hopes to secure future of caman making
A new partnership aimed at securing the future production of camans has been welcomed by shinty clubs.
Currently made by a small number of independent carpenters, caman production has been identified as a critically endangered craft.
The Camanachd Association is to work with Inverness College UHI to address the issue, implementing modern business processes to develop a manufacturers' co-operative. The five-month initiative has received funding from the Scottish Government's innovation voucher scheme which encourages collaborations between organisations, businesses and academia.
Reserves and lack of matches has meant most local clubs have managed this season but all are aware of the problem and have been warned by Inverness-based Tanera Camans that wait times may be lengthy.
Martin Stewart from Killmallie Shinty Club told the Lochaber Times: ‘We will be keeping a close eye on the situation obviously, but fingers crossed the Camanachd Association can help get something sorted.'
Leading the project at Inverness College UHI business and management lecturer David Jack explained: ‘As caman making is a critically endangered craft, the Camanachd Association is looking for innovative ways to make the manufacturing process more sustainable. The caman project is part of a wider collaboration between the University of the Highlands and Islands and the Camanachd Association. The two organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding to work together to explore opportunities around volunteering, work experience, education and training, coaching and community awareness.
‘Our main goal will be to support caman makers to work together so they can share expertise, ideas and realise the benefits of greater co-operation.'
Derek Keir, chief executive officer of the Camanachd Association, said: ‘This project is a fantastic example of our partnership plans with the University of the Highlands and Islands and highlights the benefits of partnership working to grow the support network for shinty and our respective communities.
‘Shinty is the cornerstone of many Highland communities and the caman making support project is just one way our communities are going to be able to reap the benefits of our new academic partnership with the university.
‘We also hope to progress work to include further exchange of expertise as well as a greater connection to teacher training in the Highlands and Islands.'
Dr Iain Morrison, University of the Highlands and Islands' Dean of Students, added: ‘The caman project is a great example of the synergies that exist in this new relationship.
‘We share similar geography, socio-cultural roots and a strong desire to support communities across the Highlands and Islands. Our partnership is inherent in the success of our communities and our communities are fundamental to our strategy and operation, so we are proud to be working closely with Scotland''s most iconic team sport.'