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The authorities are being urged to clamp down on visitors illicitly entering the Western Isles.

A petition urges tighter enforcement of travel restrictions after new visitors were recently spotted within the Outer Hebrides.

The Scottish Government ordered a ban on 22 March on all but essential travel by ferry to Scotland's island communities.

These controls are intended to avoid placing excessive pressure on local health services, food and resilience arrangements on islands during the coronavirus pandemic.

In addition, the aim is to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus arising from a large influx of visitors.

However, in some cases, island exiles are apparently sneaking in to visit a second home. Some locals claim campervans have also been seen around.

An outbreak of the deadly virus at a care home in Skye heightens warnings that the Western Isles are not immune from what is happening elsewhere.

Catriona Morrison has set up a petition at Change.org to campaign for stricter enforcement, suggesting police should be making checks at ferry ports.

Ms Morrison said: “Cal Mac workers are going above and beyond as are our health care workers and all front line personnel.

“To assign a police officer to assist with Cal Mac’s essential travel regulations as per Scottish Government guidelines would not only relax the pressure on Cal Mac staff but ensure an authoritative presence is in attendance at the ferry port

“As it’s only one ferry a day, I think using the resources of one officer could provide the essential protection that these islands require.

“To have suffered six cases of Covid-19 and zero deaths is not only a relief to the island community but a credit to their speedy response, adapting that well loved Hebridean hospitality to one of caution.

“Credit must be given to the health workers who have stayed faithful to their role in protecting this population and also to the residents who understand that without closing the door they cannot protect each other and the most vulnerable.

“With the help of one police officer at the ports in Uig, Oban and Ullapool this island can continue to lead by example and prevent the spread of the virus.”

A Cal Mac spokesman said the ferry firm is carrying out strict controls as implemented by the Scottish Government.

“We are actively turning people away who are not able to produce the evidence required of island residency or key worker status, and we have posters around our entire network making it clear under what circumstances you can travel.

“However, it is important to note that we do not have police or civic powers. If even stricter measures are required then this is a matter of Government policy and would require a political solution.

“We all have a part to play in this because the existing guidelines are clear.”

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "In relation to any specific concerns, we have been - and will continue - to respond and follow agreed processes."

Divisional commander chief superintendent George Macdonald stated: “The guidance is clear - continue to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.”

The petition is available at www.change.org


Petition seeks tougher enforcement on people flouting ferry travel ban to Western Isles

11 May 2020

Catriona Morrison is worried about the virus being imported onto the islands