The Shetland Times reports that Adobe software was chosen for sending out the electronic forms as it is a free tool pre-installed on most computers. But some older versions of Adobe Reader were unable to electronically send out the forms.

In the final week of the statutory consultation period for the “Blueprint for Education” proposals, with all responses are required to be in by midnight on Sunday 13 March to be included as part of the process.

Head of schools, (left) Helen Budge said that Adobe software was chosen for sending electronic forms as it is a free tool pre-installed on most computers.

However, it had been pointed out to the schools service that some older versions of Adobe Reader were unable to electronically send in the forms.

Instructions, on the SIC website ask people to update  Adobe Readers by selecting help on the top tool bar; selecting check for updates; then following the onscreen instructions to download and install.

Budge said: “We’re keen to resolve this issue now that it’s been brought to our attention. Electronic acknowledgements have been sent to individual authors of email messages received but, unfortunately, not to the electronic response forms received.

“This has since been rectified – with acknowledgements also being issued. The email link was causing some difficulty so
a response can also be sent email to blueprintforeducation@shetland.gov.uk

SIC services committee chairwoman (right) Betty Fullerton added: “I’m pleased that the issues which have been raised have been quickly dealt with by the schools service.

"With only a week left of the consultation period, I’d encourage everyone to take the opportunity to respond as part of this statutory process, to enable views to be heard.”