Shetland MSP to discuss connectivity and fishing with visiting minister

Shetland MSP Hannah Mary Goodlad is set to meet with Jim Fairlie, the Scottish Minister for Agriculture, Marine and the Islands, during his three-day visit to the islands. A central focus of the discussions will be inter-island connectivity and the necessity of tunnels to combat depopulation.

Goodlad warned that without a "bold strategy for change," the depopulation of outer islands could pose a "genuine threat to our way of life and our future prosperity." The visit is intended to highlight challenges facing Shetland's key industries, particularly the fishing sector. Issues to be raised include local control of waters, fish landing obligation levels, and landing requirements for international vessels.

Minister Fairlie is scheduled to meet with several organizations, including the Shetland Fishermen’s Association, the Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation, the Shetland Islands Council, and UHI Shetland. He will also engage with local community development companies and attend the Cunningsburgh Show.