A bill has been introduced to the Scottish parliament today that would give island councils more control over licencing for marine projects.
The Islands (Scotland) Bill will help “create the right environment for sustainable growth and empowered communities”, the government said.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar leader Roddie MacKay said extending powers to island councils in relation to marine licensing was a welcome proposal.
“The Comhairle believes that increased local accountability, decision making and control is critical to future management of pressures on the marine environment,” he said.
Other measures in the bill include a requirement to ‘island proof’ future legislation and policies, the creation of a National Islands Plan and statutory protection for the Na h-Eileanan an lar Scottish parliamentary constituency boundary.
It also provides for greater flexibility around councillor representation within island communities, the government said.
Islands Minister Humza Yousaf said: “This government is committed to promoting islands’ voices, to harnessing islands’ resources and enhancing their well-being.
“The measures in this bill underpin this ambition.”
Image: Shetland Islands Council
