Speaking after Shetland Islands Council announced significant progress on the ‘Shetland Short Crossings Project’, aimed at connecting all main islands by either a tunnel or a new ferry, including the UK Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, agreeing to meet with the Council, Highlands and Islands MSP and Deputy Rural Affairs and Islands Spokesman Jamie Halcro Johnston said:
"I am pleased that the Secretary of State for Scotland has already agreed to meet with Shetland Islands Council to discuss these positive plans.
"I recently met with Shetland Convenor Emma MacDonald in Parliament on this issue, and met again with council leadership in Lerwick earlier this month. I also met - and gave my support to - those in Shetland campaigning for fixed links, and I recognise their strength of feeling on this issue.
“Delivering reliable connectivity in Shetland – as it is in all our island communities - is vital, ensuring that current and future projects – such as the new spaceport - can be delivered with full impact.
"I hope the First Minister’s response will be as positive as the UK Government’s, and that he will commit his ministers to work with Shetland Islands Council and with UK colleagues.
“It is long beyond time for the Scottish Government to give serious consideration to fixed links for our island communities, something that has not happened so far."
