“I appreciate that time changes but it is clear that little has been done by our MP to assist in stemming this tide of instability and ensuring that we have control of the key economic drivers which would breath life back in our economy.'
Mrs Macdonald is standing on a platform that the islands need change and a “new, credible voice” to achieve the support it needs.
She said she is committed to campaigning for:
Mrs Macdonald emphasised stimulating the islands’ economy will go a long way to addressing a number of local issues we have in our islands.
She said: “In order to provide our young people with opportunities and be in a position to care for those in need and our elderly, we must have the foundations of a varied and active economy creating jobs, investment and long term stability.”
Stability encourages growth which in turn attracts business and people, she added.
“We have loads of assets we just need some action. I believe that our MP has had enough chances. It is time for a fresh approach. I am willing to work across party lines and with all organisations for the good of our islands.”
The economy is at the heart of the very survival of the Western Isles according to Ealasaid MacDonald, Labour's candidate in the general election.
Speaking after unveiling her key pledges in Barra, Mrs MacDonald said: 'I am shocked and concerned at the clear decline in the economy across the whole of the islands.
“Over the past 12 years our islands have gone backwards. Where are the apprenticeships that used to keep our young people here? Where are the jobs which enabled people to stay and raise a family? Without investment and a long term economic plan, the islands' very survival is under threat.
Labour’s pledges to turn around Western Isles economy and address SNP “failures”
19 May 2017