Views sought on Islands Bill proposals

The Scottish Government is asking for views on how new government legislation, which  will give more power and protection to Scotland’s islands.

The government’s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee is asking for individuals and organisations to provide them with evidence, as it examines the Scottish Government’s Islands (Scotland) Bill.

The Convener of the Committee, Edward Mountain MSP said this week that the committee’s call for views is an opportunity for people with direct experience of living, working and voting on the islands to influence their future by voicing their views and opinions on the issues that matter to them.

He said: “The Scottish Government’s bill covers significant issues, such as helping ensure that whenever new legislation is introduced, the economic growth and sustainability of Scotland’s islands will be an important factor; and providing a power for Scottish Ministers to create a marine licensing scheme for coastal waters.

“Its ambitious aim is to provide a more strategic approach that enables Scotland’s islands to continue to flourish. It is crucial the Committee thoroughly scrutinises these proposals to ensure they fully meet the needs of our island communities.”

Over the next six months the committee are hoping to hear opinions from across the country and, as well as taking evidence at Holyrood, the committee will visit campaigners and individuals on the islands for views on the Bill’s proposals.

The convener said: “It’s crucial that the valuable knowledge, experience and expertise of everyone in Scotland with an interest in the future of our islands feed into our work wherever possible.”

The deadline for submitting written evidence to the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee is September 25 this year. The Committee will produce a report on the Scottish Government’s Islands Bill at Stage 1 after it has concluded its evidence taking in autumn.