UK government announces framework for island groups

The UK government has today put forward a 10-point plan to Scotland’s islands groups in response to the Our Islands, Our Future campaign.

The plan was launched by Secretary of State for Scotland, Alistair Carmichael, in Stornoway this morning. The announcement was  followed by comments from the council leaders from Orkney, the Western Isles and Shetland via video up-link.

Mr Carmichael stated that the aim of the plan was provide a voice for the island groups in the heart of the UK government.

Key points from the plan include:

• Ensuring that future UK Government policy and legislation take account of island priorities.

• A commitment to the Renewable Energy Delivery Forum, focussed on getting transmission links to the islands

• The funding of projects that will advance mobile phone and broadband coverage in the areas.

Steven Heddle, Convener of Orkney Islands Council, said: “As Convener of the Council, I welcome this response to our representations. As well as outlining specific measures, it importantly establishes a channel for continuing dialogue with the Westminster Government in the event of a No vote.”

For full details and comments see next Thursday’s edition of The Orcadian.