SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan has today called for people across the Isles to help shape the future direction of their communities by taking part in the consultation on the Islands Bill.
The follows on from today’s publication by the Scottish Government of the consultation on the Islands Bill that was announced yesterday by the Minister for the Islands Derek MacKay. It contains proposals that could see additional powers, stronger representation at Holyrood and the creation of a National Islands Plan.
Scottish Ministers have been clear that a future Islands Bill, once passed, would be about equality and empowerment for island communities.
Commenting, Alasdair Allan said:
“The Scottish Government has now shown that it is serious about bringing more decision-making powers to island communities. After working with the Comhairle and other island councils over the last two years, we are now making the preparations to act through legislation.
However, an Islands Bill should be informed and shaped by the views of people in the islands themselves. That is why a consultation is now opening and inviting public comment. It’s right that individuals and organisations in the islands have a direct say on what these changes should be, whether they are around the role of councils, the Crown estate or the approach that the Scottish Government takes to making its own legislations routinely fit for use in the distinctive situation of island communities.
“I would therefore encourage everyone to take part and make their views known by going to:
https://consult.scotland.gov.uk/islands-team/islands-bill-consultation“
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