Support package announced for Scottish islands hit by ferry trouble

Island businesses are to share £3million in public support this financial year to mitigate the effects of ferry disruption.

A series of problems on the Calmac network have affected transit to communities, causing problems for visitors and locals and affecting businesses.

The Scottish Government has committed the sum as part of its Islands Business Resilience Fund, which will be worth £10m in total.

The allocation was announced as First Minister John Swinney undertakes a three-day visit to the Western Isles.

The trip will take him to Barra, South Uist, Grimsay, Scalpay, Lewis and Harris and include a series of engagements linked to housing, energy and community wellbeing.

However, the fund – administered by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) – is to cover a much larger area, with more than 20 islands including Arran, Iona, Jura and Tiree eligible. Applications will open next week.

Swinney said: “Scotland’s islands are home to a wealth of talent, innovation and entrepreneurialism, but too often island businesses are held back by circumstances outside their control.

“The £10m Islands Resilience Fund was one of our commitments for the first 100 days of government. This fund will support businesses to cope with challenging circumstances, helping them to thrive and ensuring that Scotland’s islands remain attractive places to set up businesses and livelihoods.

“Crucially, this phase of investment will ensure support can be put in place immediately while we establish the foundations for longer-term investment over the course of this parliament.

“Over the next few days I will meet a wide range of organisations in the Western Isles, where I look forward to discussing more about how the Scottish Government can support island communities to build the resilience needed for a bright future.”

Rachel Hunter, HIE director of enterprise and community support, commented: “The Islands Resilience Fund will ensure that support reaches more island communities and sectors experiencing the effects of ferry disruption. By opening eligibility, we can provide practical assistance to businesses and community organisations that have experiences additional costs and challenges beyond their control.”