The European Parliament has urged the EC to take concrete steps to address the disadvantages and issues facing island communities.
MEPs highlighted the economic and social vulnerability of islands areas and requested
the European Commission to launch an in-
They backed the setting up of an “EU Strategic Framework for Islands” for a joined-
The successful resolution also called for an increase in digital connectivity for
islands, better maritime access routes and education opportunities, if necessary
through distance learning.
SNP MEP Alyn Smith said: "Our islands are some of the bonniest spots in Scotland,
but they face some of the toughest conditions in the country too, and not just thanks
to the weather.
"One size does not always fit all, and this is especially the case
with Europe's islands: even just in Scotland our islands face many different challenges
and are extremely diverse places, let alone if you start to consider the differences
with Greek, Italian or Danish islands.
"This is why it is so vital that European laws reflect this diversity and make appropriate
allowances for it.
"That the European Parliament so resoundingly passed this resolution
is commendable, but now it is over to the European Commission to act on some of the
very sensible suggestions that it incorporated in order to better help our island
communities face the future and the challenges it will bring."
European Parliament seeks a better deal for island communities
4 February 2016