THE Scottish government has unveiled a new Islands Reliance Fund but faces accusations of “breaking promises” to communities hammered by the years-long ferry fiasco.

Ahead of a three-day visit to the Western Isles, First Minister John Swinney announced the opening of the first phase of the £10 million fund, with £3m being made available in this financial year to support businesses affected by the ferry service disruption.

Scottish government-owned CalMac has struggled to maintain lifeline services along the west coast over the last decade as it manages an ageing and depleted fleet and delays of up to eight years in the delivery of replacement vessels.

Launching the fund, Mr 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.

“This phase of investment will ensure support can be put in place immediately while we establish the foundations for longer-term investment.

“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.”

Scottish Labour MSP Donald MacKinnon was, however, unimpressed, pointing out that, during May’s election, Mr Swinney had pledged to create a £10m fund within 20 days, only to shift that to 100 days and now delivering the pledge over four annual phases instead.

“It has been a matter of months since the election and John Swinney has already started breaking promises,” said Mr MacKinnon, who represents Na h-Eileanan an Iar.
“The SNP’s ferry crisis has pushed island businesses and communities to breaking point and this U-turn adds insult to injury.

“Our islands have been let down by the SNP time and time again and the SNP’s decision to hold back funding suggests they are expecting more disruption.

“John Swinney needs to deliver the funding he promised our community and make sure all businesses affected by this crisis can access it.”