Scotland’s three island councils meet with UK Government

Scotland’s three island councils will meet the UK Government on Monday [27 June] in Kirkwall, for the second annual Islands Summit.Government Opportunities

The meeting will be chaired by UK Government Minister Andrew Dunlop. The councils will be represented by:

  • Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council): Councillor Norman A MacDonald
  • Orkney Islands Council: Councillor Dr Steven Heddle
  • Shetland Islands Council: Councillor Gary Robinson

Issues to be discussed at the summit will include renewables, digital connectivity, the Crown Estate and a possible ‘islands deal’.

The annual Islands Summit is one of the commitments set out in the Framework for the Islands, published by the UK Government in August 2014. The first summit was held in March 2015.

Andrew Dunlop said:

“I am very much looking forward to meeting Scotland’s three island councils on Monday. The Scottish islands make a unique contribution to the United Kingdom, with a range of industries from renewable energy, food and drink and tourism through to textiles and culture. The UK Government is committed to supporting the islands to thrive and develop, and to assist wherever possible in overcoming the challenges posed by their geographical remoteness.

“I am also keen to discuss with the islands councils whether, as in many other areas, there is a need to see the Scottish Government devolve more power to a local level, strengthening the powers of local communities.”

 

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