Western Isles visitors urged to play their part in keeping the islands safe

It has been published by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and NHS Western Isles.  

The letter states that there have been ‘high levels of compliance’ in the Western Isles with the Scottish Government’s guidance on lock-down, and asks visitors to take ‘particular care‘ if they are travelling to the Uists and Barra due to the ‘limited health services in these remote communities’.

Travellers who have had Covid-19 or symptoms of the virus are asked in the letter not to come to the islands.

And it asks all visitors to follow the latest Scottish Government and NHS Scotland guidance to prevent further cases of the illness in the islands.

Commenting on the letter, Rob McKinnon, chief executive of tourism trade body, Outer Hebrides Tourism, said that it was important to remind people that “all the rules that apply to them at home apply on holiday”.

He said: “We want them to enjoy their stay, but we can’t take a holiday from the precautions against Covid.

“The tourism operators have done a huge amount to make their businesses safe, but our visitors have an important part to play.”

Mr McKinnon added: “Across Scotland, rural destinations are proving very popular among visitors, and the islands are no exception.

“However, in general, we are escaping the pressure from increased visitor numbers experienced by some areas of the mainland, as ferry capacity places a ceiling on the number of visitors that can make the journey, and it remains quieter than a ‘normal’ summer.”

He concluded: “We are urging campers and motor-home owners to plan ahead and to only travel with advance bookings – camping of all types is very popular this year, not all of our sites are open, and there is limited access to shower and toilet facilities. 

“The picture varies across the islands, some still have pitches available while others are struggling to cope with demand.”