MSP Alasdair Allan has welcomed the unveiling of revised budget proposals by Finance Secretary Derek Mackay which will see Comhairle nan Eilean Siar receive an extra £1.2 million.
The budget boost comes as the Scottish Government confirmed that local government will receive an above inflation increase in resource funding.
Alasdair Allan said that the SNP budget would give Scots the “best deal” in the UK, with investment in public services and a tax cut for lower earners.
Under the progressive tax reforms those earning up to £33,000 will pay less than last year, while higher earners will face a modest increase.
The MSP said the tax changes will allow the Scottish Government to increase health spending by £400 million to £13.6 billion, lift the public sector pay cap and provide a package of investment in the economy.
Alasdair Allan commented: “The draft budget shows that, where Scotland has the power, the SNP will take a different, fairer approach – and give Scots the best deal in the UK.
“Thanks to the decisions made by the Scottish Government, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
will see an above-
“That’s a good deal for taxpayers and for public services across the islands and
will go towards extra funding for the NHS, an expansion in childcare, £600 million
for the continued rollout of superfast broadband across the country and a pay rise
for hard-
“In the face of massive Westminster cuts, the Scottish Government is using its powers progressively to invest in our schools, hospitals and across our communities.”
£1.2 million extra for Western Isles
2 February 2018