Simple Lads Alert – I faked that above for comedic effect because BBC Scotland neglected the story, for their own reasons. Geddit?

There’s been much about the democratic deficit in the Highlands and in the Islands and issues such as ferry and doctor recruitment but, not even on BBC Scotland’s Highlands & Islands page, this from PolicyMogul yesterday:

Rural and island communities will have a chance to have their voices heard in local and national decision-making as a result of Scottish Government funding.

Around £80,000 will help to deliver the next Scottish Rural and Islands Parliament – a grassroots democratic assembly ­– which will take place in the autumn.

The Scottish Government has supported voluntary organisation Scottish Rural Action (SRA) to set up four Scottish Rural Parliaments since 2014. The event is supported by a partnership of over 40 organisations, coordinated by SRA and the Scottish Islands Federation, and more than 400 people have taken part in each event.

The outcomes of discussions from the next Parliament will be presented to the Scottish Government, and will be considered as part of work to develop the Rural Delivery Plan and review the National Islands Plan. They will also be showcased at the European Rural Parliament in September 2024, maintaining Scotland’s deep connection with institutions, networks and organisations in Europe.

Speaking at the Nevis Centre in Fort William, where the Rural and Islands Parliament will be convened, First Minister Humza Yousaf said:

“When I became First Minister, I promised to lead Scotland in the interests of all of our people – and to listen and work with anyone and everyone who shares my vision of a fairer Scotland.

“I believe, therefore, that is It is vital that rural and island communities and businesses have a say in decisions that affect them. The Scottish Rural and Islands Parliament – the only rural parliament in the UK – provides an important opportunity for people who work and live in these areas to have their voices heard.

“The discussions and views aired will help to inform Scottish Government policy-making. Indeed, discussions at previous Rural Parliaments helped to shape the concept of 20-minute neighbourhoods within the National Planning Framework.

Scottish government announces funding to support Scottish Rural Parliament – Key updates – PolicyMogul