Warm welcome for PM’s ‘unprecedented’ visit

The Leader of Orkney Islands Council has welcomed today’s visit to Orkney by Prime Minister Boris Johnson – following the announcement of government funding for an Islands Growth Deal.

Councillor James Stockan said the visit had provided the perfect opportunity to discuss potential projects of major significance to Orkney and to the UK as a whole.

The UK and Scottish Governments have each announced £50 million in funding for an Islands Growth Deal for Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles.

“I am delighted that the Prime Minister and the Scottish Secretary Alister Jack accepted our invitation to travel north and spend time with us today,” Councillor Stockan said.

“The Islands Growth Deal for Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles promises to be of transformational importance for us.

“The UK Government, in awarding its share of the funding, has recognised the potential our islands have to contribute significantly to the future prosperity of the country as a whole, as well as our own communities.

“Today’s visit is unprecedented in that it provided us with the chance to meet with the Prime Minister and highlight at first hand the economic opportunities we offer.”

Orkney Islands Council, Shetland Islands Council and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar worked with a wide range of business, academic, research and public sector partners in developing their ambitious Islands Growth Deal proposals.

The Prime Minister and Scottish Secretary met with representatives of those sectors during today’s visit.

Councillor Stockan added: “Orkney has a well-earned reputation for innovation and pioneering research activity.

“That was in evidence today as we looked ahead to building projects of strategic importance to Scotland and the UK – that will deliver long term benefits for the people and the businesses of our islands.

“We now look forward to further engagement with the Government on the steps we all need to take to ensure this funding makes the biggest possible impact - both nationally and locally.”