SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, welcomed Deputy First Minister Shona Robison to the Isle of Lewis today.

The Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance began with a visit to the Stornoway Port, which is celebrating the completion of its construction phase. The Scottish Government-backed deep-water terminal will support future renewable energy and other industry developments as well as tourism opportunities in the Western Isles.

Costing £49m in total, £33.7m of which came via Scottish Government support, the project involved partnership working between the Stornoway Port Authority, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Visit Scotland and the Scottish Government.

Alasdair Allan MSP said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome the Deputy First Minister to the Isle of Lewis today and to celebrate this milestone for the Stornoway Port. The Scottish Government’s financial support for this project will have a long-lasting and significant impact on developing our islands’ economy, both in terms of encouraging local tourism and taking advantage of supply chain opportunities in renewables and other industries. The value of the new port was illustrated today by the presence of the Seabourn Venture and her passengers here today.”

The Deputy First Minister said:

“The completion of construction marks the culmination of dedicated partnership working – allowing us to create a development of real value, boosting the islands’ economy as part of our efforts to deliver economic growth in every part of Scotland. The Scottish Government is fully committed to investing in our rural and island communities, helping them thrive – and empowering people to enjoy the unique employment opportunities and strong sense of community that life on our islands offers.”

During her visit, the Cabinet Secretary also announced that following extensive community engagement on the current National Islands Plan, a refreshed plan will be developed and published in 2025, taking into account community priorities and feedback to co-develop and co-deliver policies with island communities.