Coronavirus – looking ahead

Orkney Islands Council is engaged in discussions on whether an islands-based approach should be considered for tackling the spread of Covid-19 – and for the eventual lifting of coronavirus restrictions.

“These are matters of great importance to our community and it is important that we have a clear view of all the potential issues before the Council adopts a position on this,” said OIC Leader James Stockan.

“For some time now we have been taking part in discussions with the other Islands Councils and with the Scottish Government on the possibility of an islands alternative – a different approach to preventing the spread of the pandemic and to the easing of the Covid-19 measures that are in place country-wide.

“It has been argued that this would be worth considering for communities like Orkney, with our relatively small population, if a comprehensive programme was in place to test, trace and isolate those who’ve come into contact with the coronavirus.

“But it is also argued that a consistent approach across Scotland remains the best approach at present to dealing with the Covid-19 – enabling clear public messaging on the measures needed to help us all prevent the spread of infection.

“At present we are actively playing our part in these important discussions – and our key priority will always be to work with our partners and keep our community as safe as possible.”