Islands' green industry potential hailed by Minister
ANN McKechin, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Scotland Office visited the Isle of Lewis today (Thursday) as part of a series of regional engagements to hear first hand about the challenges and opportunities for remote island communities.
As part of the Minister's visit she gave the opening address at the 29th Annual Assembly of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) in Stornoway.
During her speech the Minister hailed the potential of green renewable energy and its potential to revitalise islands in the Outer Hebrides by halting the 'brain drain' and acting as a catalyst for economic, social and community regeneration.
Addressing the delegates, she said: "I can assure you that the Western Isles are not on the periphery for UK Government Ministers. We view engagement with the Isles as a matter of great importance. Only last month James Purnell, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, was here. Next month my colleague Jim Murphy, the Secretary of State for Scotland, is scheduled to visit."
She added: "The economy of the Western Isles has centred on weaving, fishing, crafting and construction work for the oil industry. An ever more diverse economy will be at the heart of future prosperity - harnessing the region's traditional industries, natural advantages and the talents of the local population.
"Energy has a big part to play in regeneration of the Western Isles. The UK Government believes in a diverse energy mix for Scotland. We are facing long term energy challenges - namely climate change and energy security but there is also opportunity. Investment in energy will drive forward jobs and growth. The Western Isles must share in this.
"We are entering a low carbon revolution where the focus is on reducing our dependence on traditional fossil fuel sources. This can only be done by adopting a mix of all forms of power to meet our future energy needs - to ensure that customers in Stornoway and throughout Scotland will be able to turn the switch and the lights will always go on.
"So we are embracing nuclear, renewables and clean fossil fuel technology. The Western Isles should be at the forefront of this revolution - playing a vital part in meeting Scotlands and the UK's energy needs.
"Renewable energy can stimulate the economy of the Western Isles by exploiting the advantages arising from geography. It can be a key driver for growth. The Government, in partnership with our devolved colleagues, wants to see this happen.
"The natural wind, wave and tidal resources are the foundation of a sustainable industry which can bring long term economic benefits for businesses and families in the region. Two very different farms - the wind farm and the croft existing side by side.
"As a source of renewable energy generations and as a testing area for renewable technology the scale and potential is enormous. It gives the Western Isles the unique opportunity to lead the way in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector and to use the benefits to revitalise island communities.
"Clean, green energy, jobs, research and revenue - a chance for the Western Isles to replicate the success of North Sea Oil and Gas. The prospect of good jobs in new technologies. Halting the brain drain and acting as a catalyst for economic, social and community regeneration."
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Weather for Stornoway
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: North east
