SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has welcomed the announcement from the First Minister that Scotland’s islands will receive an additional £5m to tackle rising costs and invest in local infrastructure.

On a visit to Shetland last week, John Swinney outlined the funding package, which will support island communities in tackling local issues, such as fuel poverty, as well as investing in new opportunities to help boost economic growth.

Within the package there is further support for the carbon neutral islands project (which includes Barra and Vatersay), as well as a further £1 million for the Island Cost Crisis Emergency Fund to continue addressing poverty and the cost-of-living crisis. The rest of the funding will support locally designed critical island infrastructure projects.

Commenting, Alasdair Allan said:

“This additional funding will make a big difference locally, supporting the First Minister’s priorities of eradicating child poverty, growing Scotland’s economy, investing in green energy and infrastructure, and improving public services.

“Those of us fortunate enough to call the islands our home are well aware of the additional challenges island living brings. Tailored funding for island communities demonstrates the Scottish Government’s recognition that our islands need the right resources and investment to reverse depopulation and secure our islands’ long-term sustainability.”