Alasdair Allan, SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, has called on communities in the Western Isles to take part in the Scottish Government’s Consultation on developing the National Islands Plan. The Plan fulfills one of the key objectives of the Islands Act 2018 (Scotland), on the first anniversary since it was passed in the Scottish Parliament.

 The Plan will set out how the Scottish Government, local authorities and other public agencies might work to improve outcomes for island communities. Scottish Ministers will be asked to report back to Scottish Parliament every year on progress towards the goals included in the National Islands Plan. To develop the Plan, the Scottish Government are seeking the views of island authorities, and all effected in the islands.

 The consultation will run until 6th July 2019.

 Commenting, Alasdair Allan MSP said:

 “It is one year to the day since the Islands Act was passed in the Scottish Parliament. The historic legislation was brought in to meet the unique needs of Scotland’s islands now and in the future, helping to create the right environment for sustainable growth and empowered communities.

 “One of the key objectives of the Act was to introduce a National Islands Plan, and for the Scottish Government to place this before Parliament, so we can work to achieve all of our shared ambitions for the islands.

 “The Scottish Government has been consulting with island authorities, people who represent the interests of island communities and all those who might be affected by, or have an interest in, the plan.

 “There is one month left to submit your views. The National Islands Plan should be ambitious, and set out a long-term vision for what the islands can achieve. I hope as many of my constituents take part in consultation as possible, and play a part in shaping our islands future prosperity.”

Link to the consultation: https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-islands-plan-islands-communities-impact-assessment-guidance-consultation/pages/1/