Funding for Scotland’s islands project comes to Argyll and Bute

Argyll and Bute will receive a share of £302,000 as part of an initiaitve to support economic development and attract new visitors.
The 'Scotland’s islands' project has received a boost of £820,000 from the European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) to support a initiative devised by the six local authorities in Scotland that encompass island communities to promote island culture, including contemporary and traditional art and music, to mainland audiences.

Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop visited the western isles and said:

“Our islands each have their own distinctive culture and I am delighted we have been successful in attracting European funding to promote and celebrate the islands and their indigenous assets to a wider audience. I welcome the potential this initiative offers for cross-fertilisation of ideas between island communities, those on the mainland and internationally.”

Councillor Neil Mackay, Argyll and Bute's spokesperson for arts, culture, leisure and sport is keen for the region's islands to take their turn in the spotlight. He explains:

"Argyll and Bute encompasses 25 very different inhabited islands. This initiative gives us the chance to showcase their individual culture and show off these special locations to the rest of the world."

Alex MacDonald, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said:

“This is a tremendous boost for the Scotland’s Islands project which is shaping up to be a fantastic celebration of the culture and heritage of Scotland’s Islands. With the extension of the event into Spring 2012 there is now even more time for people to enjoy Scotland’s unique and very special Islands.”

The Scotland’s Islands 2011 project will be launched in April 2011 and extend to Spring 2012.