European funding decisions must be kept local – MSP

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur is calling for decisions on projects receiving European funding, to be kept local, rather than centralised.

The issue was raised at First Ministers Questions on Thursday afternoon.

Mr McArthur said:  “These European Structural funds have been vital over the years in supporting our local communities and economy.  Since 2007, £7.4million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) has been spent in Orkney, helping a wide range of projects from marine renewables infrastructure to the new Orkney Theatre.

“Thanks to close working between UK and Scottish governments last year, the Commission agreed to make £172m available to the Highlands & Islands over the next six years.  Decisions about how and where these funds should be spent must be taken locally.

“The First Minister refused to give that assurance today in parliament.  While he is right that discussions are ongoing, the First Minister can and should confirm that there is no threat of decisions about the use of these funds being centralised.”