Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has welcomed the easing of restrictions prohibiting household visits in the Western Isles.

In a speech to the Scottish Parliament today, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP announced that, from Friday, people living in the Western Isles, Orkney and Shetland will be able to meet with one other household inside their homes, up to a strict maximum of six people.

Due to the risk of importation of the virus to the islands, the Scottish Government will be issuing clear guidance advising anyone who goes to or returns to the islands from the mainland to avoid in-house mixing for a period after their return.

Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“This is something I have been asking the Scottish Government about and I am really pleased that people will once again be able to visit each other’s houses – especially as we head into the dark winter months.

“Social isolation has been a real issue throughout the pandemic and the islands are in a unique situation with a lack of public transport or alternative meeting places such as cafes in rural areas. I hope this will bring a lot of comfort to people who have been struggling.

“If we continue to exercise caution and stick to the rules, the trend of easing restrictions will hopefully continue.”