National Strategy for Economic Transformation
SIF was invited to the presentation of the National Strategy for Economic Transformation by Kate Forbes MSP (Cabinet Secretary for Finance & Economy) on Tuesday 1st March. The Strategy sets …
Scottish Fire & Rescue Service – Long-term Vision Consultation
In general terms we fully support the vision, the strategic intents, and the priorities. Our concern is around the extent to which the situation on the ground in island communities …
ICIA – Free Bus Travel for Young People Under 22
To many young islanders, the cost of the ferry journey (or plane) is the main barrier to participation and access, and the plan, as it currently stands, introduces a further …
Heat in Buildings Strategy – Skills Requirements
If the situation in islands is recognised within the proposals, we believe there is a good opportunity within the sector to grow good, skilled jobs and career paths, contributing to …
Welfare of Animals During Transport
High standards of animal welfare are a USP of small scale, low impact crofting and farming in islands but by default, due to remote geography, transport restraints and limited accessibility …
Consultation on free bus travel for under 19s
The Scottish Government recently conducted a consultation on providing free bus travel for under 19’s. We welcomed this proposal and requested it be extended to cover free ferry travel for …
Digital Strategy for Scotland
Good digital connectivity is pivotal to the sustainability and ambition of island and remote communities and yet obstacles continue to frustrate inclusive progress. Different solutions and alternative technologies are required …
Island Community Impact Assessments
A key part of the Islands (Scotland) Act, Island Community Impact Assessments are due to come into force later this month. The Scottish Government recently conducted a consultation on the …
Short Term Lets
Short-term lets feature significantly in the sustainability of island communities, supporting economic growth, services and supply chains through tourism as well ashousing the many essential contract and project workers that …
Impact of COVID-19 on Island Communities
Communication with our SIF members since the start of lockdown enabled us to understand and gather insight into the many issues we face as island communities as a result of …