Fiona Grahame Orkney News Ltd

Editor of The Orkney News community independent and free media. email us [email protected]

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Last Notes

2026-03-23 07:00:08 GMT

“I am pleased to see Loganair make history as the first commercial airline to trial an all-electric aircraft across its network. “
Last week, Loganair made UK aviation history by being the first commercial airline to fly an all-electric aircraft across its network. The BETA ALIA CTOL is a battery-powered fixed-wing aircraft. The flight on Thursday 19 March is part of a two week programme working alongside BETA Technologies, a U.S. electric aerospace…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2026/03/23/i-am-pleased-to-see-loganair-make-history-as-the-first-commercial-airline-to-trial-an-all-electric-aircraft-across-its-network/

2026-03-15 07:00:06 GMT

Women Gain Voting Rights, Finland #OnThisDay
On 15 March 1906, women in Finland gained the right to vote. A first for European countries. Finland was asserting itself as an independent nation and resisting Russian control. It was becoming more industrialised and women formed an essential part of the workforce. The Finnish Women's Association was established in 1884. The push for enfranchisement was largely supported by the Finnish Social Democratic Party, reflecting a…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2026/03/15/women-gain-voting-rights-finland-onthisday/

2026-03-05 08:10:16 GMT

The Old Irish Goat : a living piece of ancient heritage.
New research has revealed that the Old Irish Goat shares a 3,000-year genetic link with goats living in Ireland during the Late Bronze Age. The findings suggest the rare indigenous breed represents a continuous Irish lineage stretching back millennia. “Combining genetics, proteomics, and archaeological science has allowed us a glimpse of our animals hundreds and thousands of years ago - and how their descendants…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2026/03/05/the-old-irish-goat-a-living-piece-of-ancient-heritage/

2026-02-14 08:00:14 GMT

‘The Kill Chain’
"Palantir’s CEO Alex Karp says he is “exceedingly proud” of Palantir’s involvement in what he calls “operationally crucial operations in Israel.”
https://theorkneynews.scot/2026/02/14/the-kill-chain/

2026-01-03 07:00:16 GMT

Take a Tour of the Ness Battery, Stromness
In both World Wars the Ness Battery along the Stromness coastal path was a vital part of the defence systems of Orkney protecting the Royal Naval base of Scapa Flow. Today it is possible to take a guided tour of this important military facility. Led by expert Andrew Hollinrake, the tour explains the structures that once existed on the site, the guns, searchlights, and other equipment needed for the personnel to keep the skies…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2026/01/03/take-a-tour-of-the-ness-battery-stromness/

2025-12-28 07:00:16 GMT

Tay Bridge Disaster #OnThisDay
On 28 December 1879 the Tay Rail Bridge collapsed. A North British Railway (NBR) passenger train on the Edinburgh to Aberdeen Line was travelling from Burntisland to Dundee at the time killing all aboard. The bridge, designed by Sir Thomas Bouch, used lattice girders supported by iron piers, with cast iron columns and wrought iron cross-bracing. The piers were narrower and their cross-bracing was less extensive and robust than on previous…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/12/28/tay-bridge-disaster-onthisday/

2025-12-13 08:00:13 GMT

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. ” #Genocide in #Gaza
Peace campaigners, horrified by the atrocities taking place in Gaza, have been meeting in vigil on the Kirk Green, Broad Street, Kirkwall since the end of October 2023. Other events have also been held in Orkney, including kite flying in Sanday. Nationally and internationally protests have been taking place. In response to one event when protestors threw…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/12/13/if-you-are-neutral-in-situations-of-injustice-you-have-chosen-the-side-of-the-oppressor-genocide-in-gaza/

2025-11-15 16:30:08 GMT

November Sunset #Orkney
https://media.mastodon.scot/media_attachments/files/115/554/652/544/646/272/original/dbc5f8a5e889843d.mp4

2025-11-15 08:00:13 GMT

A return to Education but children in #Gaza suffer long term trauma
Three hundred and three temporary facilities have been set up in Gaza where schools have been destroyed to deliver education to children. Temporary Learning Spaces (TLS) are providing schooling to 154,000 children. Whilst this is less than a quarter of school aged children in Gaza, it is a start. Education is highly valued by Palestinians. 4,300 teachers are working in the TLS.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/11/15/a-return-to-education-but-children-in-gaza-suffer-long-term-trauma/

2025-11-08 08:07:41 GMT

97% of Trees in #Gaza have been Destroyed. https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/11/08/97-of-trees-in-gaza-have-been-destroyed/ #Environment, #Farming, #Gaza, #Israel, #Orkney, #Palestine, #Vigil

2025-10-21 17:18:56 GMT

- reply

Orkney has one of the highest rates of fuel poverty. This is what's actually happening https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/10/16/i-have-visited-a-house-where-a-candle-was-being-burned-under-an-upturned-ceramic-flowerpot-propped-up-on-wood-to-provide-heat/

2025-10-16 07:00:17 GMT

Thread memory – Embroidery from Palestine, V&A Museum, Dundee
By Jeanie Molyneux. This is one of the most moving exhibitions I have ever visited, challenging, but well worth seeing. The exhibition celebrates the ancient tradition of Palestinian embroidery, called tatreez in Arabic. There is an extensive display of beautiful dresses (throbes) and accessories, in bright, vibrant colours, utilising this form of embroidery. The different colours (often shades of red) and…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/10/16/thread-memory-embroidery-from-palestine-va-museum-dundee/

2025-08-02 07:30:39 GMT

‘Starved, Bombed and Displaced’: The Traumatised Children of the #GazaGenocide
UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban has just been on a visit to Israel, Gaza and The West Bank. He was shocked at the famine unfolding and the deep suffering of the people in Gaza. He said: "On Monday, when I was in Gaza, I met the families of the 10 children killed and 19 injured by an Israeli airstrike while they were queuing for food with their mothers and fathers at a nutrition…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/08/02/starved-bombed-and-displaced-the-traumatised-children-of-the-gazagenocide/

2025-07-29 06:00:17 GMT

Share Your Views on the Future for the Northern Isles Ferries
Transport Scotland has opened its consultation on the future Northern Isles Ferry Services contract (NIFS4). The consultation is online and there will be in-person events later in the year. The consultation is open until 13 October. There is a dedicated NIFS 4 webpage to provide updates on the contract’s development. Minister for Connectivity in the Scottish Government Jim Fairlie said that, "direct…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/07/29/share-your-views-on-the-future-for-the-northern-isles-ferries/

2025-07-25 17:54:49 GMT

Oh BBC Radio 4 covering the situation with UK Water - but it's actually England's Water System they are talking about. Just to be clear, Scotland's Water is publicly owned. My tap water in Orkney is excellent, and yes perfectly clean for drinking.

2025-07-25 07:33:14 GMT

The UK has permitted the entry into Scotland of a convicted criminal who is also a suspect in the US' conviction of its worst sex trafficker and paedophile, who died in mysterious circumstances in his prison cell. There is mounting evidence that the convicted criminal visiting Scotland had extremely close links with the sex trafficker and rapist. #EpsteinFiles #Trump
https://media.mastodon.scot/media_attachments/files/114/912/706/040/025/820/original/10134df4e40c75e8.jpg

2025-07-24 07:30:13 GMT

New Immigration Rules “will be devastating for the care sector in Scotland and across the UK.”
Changes to the Immigration Rules made by the UK Labour Government came into force on 22 July. The Scottish Government said the tightening up on immigration, a power retained by the London Government, ' will hinder the prosperity of Scotland. ' Changes have been made to the Skilled Worker and other work routes. The Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) is now closed…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/07/24/new-immigration-rules-will-be-devastating-for-the-care-sector-in-scotland-and-across-the-uk/

2025-07-14 07:12:49 GMT

DNA Clues to the Life of an Ancient Egyptian Potter
The oldest Egyptian DNA to date has been extracted and sequenced from an individual who lived around 4,500 to 4,800 years ago. Forty years after Nobel Prize winner Svante Pääbo’s pioneering attempts to extract ancient DNA from individuals from ancient Egypt, improvements in technology have now paved the way for the breakthrough today, which is also the first whole genome (the entire set of DNA in an individual) from…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/07/14/dna-clues-to-the-life-of-an-ancient-egyptian-potter/

2025-07-09 06:00:17 GMT

Emma Roddick MSP: “We must challenge the dangerous rhetoric that seeks to divide us and stigmatise disabled people.”
In the ongoing public discourse surrounding social security, there's a troubling trend towards dehumanising those who rely on support. We hear terms like "benefit scroungers" or debates about the "cost of welfare," which strip away the fundamental truth: social security is about human rights. It's about ensuring everyone has the ability to live with…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/07/09/emma-roddick-msp-we-must-challenge-the-dangerous-rhetoric-that-seeks-to-divide-us-and-stigmatise-disabled-people/

2025-06-27 14:40:07 GMT

In this film by Mike Robertson for The Orkney News we hear from visitors to Orkney, including a Palestinian living in Chile, about how important the Vigils are by islanders in giving hope to the people of #Gaza and of Palestine.
The vigils have been held since the end of October 2023 calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.
https://youtu.be/nLGW2qtEbO8?si=y1DqhPRxI0ollMCo

2025-06-14 08:00:12 GMT

“The horrors in Gaza must end” UN General Assembly President Philémon Yang
Peace campaigners in Orkney will be meeting on the Kirk Green, Broad Street today between 1 and 2pm, as they have done since October 2023. As the threat of world conflict looks ever likely the islanders are urging anyone who wishes to join with them to see an end to the genocide in Gaza, and an immediate ceasefire, to come along to their vigil.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/06/14/the-horrors-in-gaza-must-end-un-general-assembly-president-philemon-yang/

2025-06-02 08:26:38 GMT

Venturing onto Land in West Lothian 346 million years ago
In 1984, an amateur paleontologist in Scotland found a remarkable specimen: a nearly complete fossil of what looked to be a lizard or salamander. Rather small in size at 20 centimeters, it would turn out to be a crucial piece in the puzzle of animal evolution.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/06/02/venturing-onto-land-in-west-lothian-346-million-years-ago/

2025-05-30 07:24:16 GMT

Complex Investigation Leads to Conviction of Tea Fraudster
The conviction of Thomas Robinson of fraudulently claiming tea he was supplying was grown in Scotland has been welcomed by Food Standards Scotland. Robinson was found guilty on two counts of fraud totalling nearly £600,000 following an extensive investigation by the Scottish Food Crime and Incidents Unit. Robinson defrauded luxury hotels and retailers by falsely claiming to supply premium tea grown in Scotland.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/05/30/complex-investigation-leads-to-conviction-of-tea-fraudster/

2025-05-29 07:00:13 GMT

The Raven: “a most interesting bird”
There's nothing new about the controversy over the issue of ravens in Orkney. In 1943, George Arthur was the RSPB representative in the islands and he published his views in The Orkney Herald, 8th December, on the raven. He said: " Quite often one hears in Orkney of hawks attacking chickens, hens etc. As human beings, we wage war on the complete species.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/05/29/the-raven-a-most-interesting-bird/

2025-05-24 06:00:15 GMT

Exploring the Viking Maritime Mindscape
Archaeologist Greer Jarrett at Lund University in Sweden has been sailing in the footsteps of Vikings for three years. He can now show that the Vikings sailed farther away from Scandinavia, and took routes farther from land, than was previously believed to have been possible. In his latest study, he has found evidence of a decentralised network of ports, located on islands and peninsulas, which probably played a central role in…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/05/24/exploring-the-viking-maritime-mindscape/

2025-05-22 07:00:14 GMT

Take Part in the Wild Edibles Citizen Science Project
Nutrition scientists are recruiting an army of seed sowers to help them understand how Scotland could better exploit its underutilised – or “marginal” - lands. Researchers at the university’s Rowett Institute have been very busy filling small packs with dozens of sorrel seeds to send out to participants across the country. Now they are appealing for anyone with an interest in taking part in the Wild Edibles Citizen…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2025/05/22/take-part-in-the-wild-edibles-citizen-science-project/

2024-12-30 07:10:28 GMT

Orkney’s Farmers Delight the Crowds with Decorated Tractors
Orkney's farmers excelled, yet again, with a series of Christmas Tractor Runs, raising money for two local charities. Image credit Christie Grahame The main event took place on Friday 27th December in Kirkwall with tractors, and other vehicles, leaving the Mart at 6pm to make their way around the town's streets. Orkney’s Christmas Tractor Run will be raising money for two local charities: Orkney Prostate…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/30/orkneys-farmers-delight-the-crowds-with-decorated-tractors/

2024-12-30 07:01:16 GMT

The Earl’s Bu Orphir
A single track road in Orphir leads to one of the least understood historic sites in Orkney but one which features in the OrkneyInga Saga and was the base for powerful Norse Earls. Very little remains to be seen of The Earl’s Bu and Round Church but an excellent visitor centre run by the Community Council provides additional information to help visitors wishing to explore this intriguing site.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/30/the-earls-bu-orphir/

2024-12-29 07:05:11 GMT

The Treaty of New Echota #OnThisDay
On 29th December 1835 the Treaty of New Echota was signed between the US government and representatives of a minority Cherokee political faction to cede all lands of the Cherokee east of the Mississippi River to the United States. Andrew Jackson, a Democrat and supporter of Indian removal, was elected president in 1828 The negotiation of the Treaty of New Echota was largely encouraged by Jackson, and it was signed by a minority…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/29/the-treaty-of-new-echota-onthisday/

2024-12-28 15:01:01 GMT

Vigil for #Gaza in #Orkney today
https://media.mastodon.scot/media_attachments/files/113/731/044/110/571/072/original/f1e25afb83cb40e4.mp4

2024-12-28 07:05:15 GMT

“All signs of #genocide are flashing red” #Gaza
'For unto us a child is born' : A baby, who found warm shelter in a stable, and whose birth Christians around the world have been celebrating over the last few days. In that same land, over the last few days, four babies have frozen to death because there was no shelter just make-shift tents, against the freezing temperatures of winter in Gaza.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/28/all-signs-of-genocide-are-flashing-red-gaza/

2024-12-28 07:01:19 GMT

Short Term Lets are “turbocharging local economies” Claims New Report
BiGGAR Economics, a Scottish consultancy company, has calculated that short-term lets (STLs) contribute nearly £1bn gross value added (GVA) to the Scottish economy while supporting approximately 30,000 jobs. By accommodating visitors, STLs generate economic activity across Scotland, with the local impacts exceeding residential use, supporting an additional £32,400 GVA per property. According to their…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/28/short-term-lets-are-turbocharging-local-economies-claims-new-report/

2024-12-27 11:35:24 GMT

Stenness Loch #Orkney this morning
https://media.mastodon.scot/media_attachments/files/113/724/572/494/579/969/original/7c16de263d73e4c7.mp4

2024-12-27 07:01:16 GMT

Flag fences, ditches and dry-stone dykes Part 5
By Ian Cooper, from his excellent series, Records of a Bygone Age, first published in The Stronsay Limpet and republished here with kind permission. Last month’s article ended by highlighting the need for regular maintenance of both dykes and flag fences to keep them in good condition. When labour was plentiful, the maintenance of these would have been carried out during the winter months or slack periods during the…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/27/flag-fences-ditches-and-dry-stone-dykes-part-5/

2024-12-26 07:10:23 GMT

Orkney Christmas Tractor Run 2024
The 2024 Orkney Christmas Tractor Run takes place on Friday 27th December leaving the Mart at about 6pm. Friday 27th December 6pm -Leave The mart and turn left -Straight ahead at the round about -Past Tesco -Turning left in past the old bus station and turning right at the roundabout 6:15pm Head along the pier front and out round Weyland…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/26/orkney-christmas-tractor-run-2024/

2024-12-26 07:01:20 GMT

Iceland, Literacy, & Saga
Iceland has a very high rate of literacy - estimated today at 99%. This small but independent country has always prided itself on its love of writing, reading, and importantly story telling. It is thanks to those Medieval Icelandic scribes that we have the Norse Sagas, retelling the tales of the Norse Earls and their adventures.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/26/iceland-literacy-saga/

2024-12-25 07:01:18 GMT

Emma Roddick MSP: Scottish Budget, Tackling Child Poverty
I welcomed the positive funding announcements for Orkney within the draft Scottish Budget in my column at the start of December, and the recent confirmation that Orkney Islands Council (OIC) will see a significant increase in funding feels like an early Christmas present for the islands. Orkney’s total in 2025-26 will rise to £106.0 million, an increase of £10.4 million. This is a full 10.9% more than last…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/25/emma-roddick-msp-scottish-budget-tackling-child-poverty/

2024-12-24 07:10:15 GMT

Christmas Day Ba’ 100 Years Ago
On December 25th 1924 the Christmas Day Boys' Ba' took place at 10am with the traditional throw up at the Mercat Cross. 'The underfoot conditions were dry, and the players were fanned by a freshening breeze. 'The struggle for supremacy in the Boys' Ba' lasted an hour and a-half. Play lasted for quite a time in Broad Street, when the Up-the-Gates made a drive causing the opposition to give way, but the Ba', instead of taking the regular…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/24/christmas-day-ba-100-years-ago/

2024-12-24 07:06:37 GMT

Bread and flour to be fortified with folic acid to prevent birth defects
New legislation was introduced on 20th December that will help prevent around 200 cases of debilitating brain and spine defects in babies each year in the UK by fortifying non-wholemeal wheat flour with folic acid. The legislation requires millers and flour producers in the UK to fortify non-wholemeal wheat flour with folic acid by the end of 2026. Folic acid deficiency is a leading cause of…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/24/bread-and-flour-to-be-fortified-with-folic-acid-to-prevent-birth-defects/

2024-12-23 16:25:45 GMT

On a very stormy Saturday islanders in Orkney met for their regular peace vigil for #Gaza calling for an immediate ceasefire, the return of all hostages, and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beKAJAgZeJo

2024-12-23 07:10:13 GMT

How can communities benefit from Renewables produced locally ?
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation to improve how communities can receive additional benefits from renewable energy developments. Scottish Renewables, Chief Executive, Claire Mack said: “As our clean energy transition gathers pace it is important to ensure lasting benefits are secured for Scotland. Delivering our pipeline of projects will provide a significant boost for the economy through…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/23/how-can-communities-benefit-from-renewables-produced-locally/

2024-12-22 07:06:22 GMT

Age UK urges older people to do all they can to stay well this winter by having their vaccinations
AGE UK urges every older person to protect their health by having a winter COVID-19 and flu jab as soon as they can. Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK said: “This winter is shaping up to be another worrying one for many older people as they struggle to balance keeping warm this winter with the cost of energy, changes in eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment,…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/22/age-uk-urges-older-people-to-do-all-they-can-to-stay-well-this-winter-by-having-their-vaccinations/

2024-12-22 07:05:16 GMT

Christmas Lights #OnThisDay
On 22nd December 1882 Edward Johnson hand-wired 80 red, white, and blue light bulbs and strung them together around a tree in front of the street-side window of his parlour. A generator powered the lights and the tree’s revolving pedestal. Edward Johnson, was the friend and business associate of Thomas Edison at the Edison Electric Light Company. In 1880 Thomas Edison created a string of electric lights in his laboratory and hung them…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/22/christmas-lights-onthisday/

2024-12-22 07:01:19 GMT

Santa in Space
by Duncan Lunan In 1965 the Gemini programme of 2-man space flights established many of the techniques afterwards used in Project Apollo. Gemini 6 was to have attempted rendezvous and docking with an uncrewed Agena target vehicle (subsequently achieved by Neil Armstrong and Dave Scott on Gemini 8). However the Agena exploded after launch, and after Gemini 6 experienced a launch abort, the decision was taken to rendezvous with Gemini 7, which was to…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/22/santa-in-space/

2024-12-21 15:55:24 GMT

Winter Solstice
Today, 21st December, the sun will set in Orkney at about 3:15pm. This is the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. Sunrise on 22nd December will be at about 9:05am. December 23rd 2019 Ring of Brodgar Today is also extremely windy and our hopes for filming at the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar to celebrate the midwinter may not be happening.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/21/winter-solstice/

2024-12-21 07:05:16 GMT

“My eyes went to heaven before I did” The Bleak Midwinter for Children in #Gaza
Today, Saturday 21 December peace campaigners in Orkney will gather despite the strong winds which have disrupted the islands transport links. Every Saturday since October 2023 they have met outside St Magnus Cathedral, Broad Street, Kirkwall between 1 and 2pm, determined to do so until there is a lasting ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the unhindered delivery of aid to the…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/21/my-eyes-went-to-heaven-before-i-did-the-bleak-midwinter-for-children-in-gaza/

2024-12-21 07:01:17 GMT

Measuring Greenland’s Melting Ice Sheet
Scientists have now delivered the first measurements of Greenland Ice Sheet thickness change using CryoSat-2 and ICESat-2 – the ESA and NASA ice satellite missions. Both satellites carry altimeters as their primary sensor, but they make use of different technologies to collect their measurements. Image credit: Prof Andrew Shepherd CryoSat-2 carries a radar system to determine the Earth’s surface height, while ICESat-2 has a laser…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/21/measuring-greenlands-melting-ice-sheet/

2024-12-20 13:15:35 GMT

A FLOOD ALERT has been issued for Orkney.
Minor coastal flooding is possible during Saturday and Sunday from spray and wave overtopping caused by very strong winds. Particularly at risk are causeways and low lying coastal roads exposed to the west. Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property. Advice and information is available on our website or by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/20/a-flood-alert-has-been-issued-for-orkney-18/

2024-12-20 07:07:56 GMT

Sometimes making Mincemeat Pies can seem like a chore but my goodness once you find a recipe you like then shop bought ones no longer hit the spot. After trial and error, mixing and matching, I’ve come up with this one.
Helen's Home Cooking Video and Recipe For Mincemeat Pies https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/20/helens-home-cooking-video-and-recipe-for-mincemeat-pies-3/ #Christmas, #ChristmasTreats, #Culture, #FamilyFavourites, #Homebakes, #MincemeatPies, #Recipes

2024-12-19 07:10:13 GMT

Flood Advisory Service to be Established
Scotland is to establish a national flood advisory service. The Flood Advisory Service will provide support and advice on building flood resilience to delivery partners and communities and provide the governance framework and gateway process for progressing high value flood actions such as flood protection schemes - National Flood Resilience Strategy. Kirkwall Harbour Flood gates 10th Feb 2020 This service will provide support…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/19/flood-advisory-service-to-be-established/

2024-12-18 07:05:16 GMT

The Not So ‘Royal’ Mail
The UK Labour Government agreed to the sell off of Royal Mail on 16th December 2024 to Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský . The UK Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said that it was a significant deal that 'contains commitments that protect, and secure investment in, Royal Mail’s postal network which is important to everyone from small business owners in Southampton to online shoppers in Shetland.'
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/18/the-not-so-royal-mail/

2024-12-17 07:10:15 GMT

A complete lack of accountability from the Scottish Government over VisitScotland’s closure of 25 iCentres.
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, says she is “astonished” at the complete lack of accountability from the Scottish Government over VisitScotland’s closure of its 25 iCentres throughout Scotland. This comes as Mrs Grant’s latest plea to the Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead, to step in and stop the closures while concerns of Unions and VisitScotland…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/17/a-complete-lack-of-accountability-from-the-scottish-government-over-visitscotlands-closure-of-25-icentres/

2024-12-17 07:01:15 GMT

The Pier Arts Centre Christmas Exhibition 2024
By Bernie Bell Each year the Pier Arts Centre has a Christmas Exhibition of work by local artists. Each year, we go to see it if we can and this year was no exception. The Exhibition, however, was exceptionally good – varied – inspired – I went into sensory over-load. These choices are purely my personal preference, starting at the top of the building, and working my way down.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/17/the-pier-arts-centre-christmas-exhibition-2024/

2024-12-16 15:13:41 GMT

In June this year I visited Edinburgh exploring the places I used to know, including where my granny lived and where my dad grew up. Granny's door was green and we had to knock 3 times. This is it today. The windows are looking good.
https://media.mastodon.scot/media_attachments/files/113/663/145/484/311/218/original/48777bdd2f56d9b8.jpg

2024-12-16 07:10:14 GMT

Swandro Uncovered
Swandro is an incredible archaeological site in Rousay, Orkney, at threat from coastal erosion. The excavation has been covered in The Orkney News in several articles. There is an excellent website run by Swandro-Orkney Coastal Archaeology Trust which explains all there has been discovered so far about the site, the artefacts that have been found, the threat of coastal erosion, and how you can help fund the ongoing work.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/16/swandro-uncovered/

2024-12-16 07:01:15 GMT

Poetry Corner: You and Your Dog
By Edwin Heath I believe in you,You and your dog,That gasping mongrel you call your ‘hound’.I believe in his bristly tail,And your long hair,And his muffled growl,And your independent air.I believe in his eager, saucer-round eyes,And your modestly unassertive eyes,Detaching themselves from the things you say.It seems you actually called on me,
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/16/poetry-corner-you-and-your-dog/

2024-12-14 07:11:19 GMT

‘Only the pebbles wept’ #Gaza
The slaughter of civilians in Gaza continues both directly through Israeli Defence Force action, and indirectly through starvation, disease and trauma. However, there has been some positive news. The most recent UNRWA report states that on 10 December, a joint UN convoy delivered urgently needed food to communities in southern and central Gaza. A total of 105 trucks successfully completed their journeys along the Philadelphi corridor and…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/14/only-the-pebbles-wept-gaza/

2024-12-14 07:05:11 GMT

10.9% Increase in Scot Gov Funding to OIC
Orkney Islands Council is to recieve an increase of 10.9% in Scottish Government funding if the 2025/26 Draft Scottish Budget is passed in the Scottish Parliament. This is the largest % increase for any of Scotland's Local Authorities. Finance Secretary in the Scottish Government Shona Robison said: “Local authorities provide some of the most important services to our communities – from schools to social care – which is why…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/14/10-9-increase-in-scot-gov-funding-to-oic/

2024-12-13 07:10:13 GMT

Primary Pupil Literacy Levels in Orkney at Highest Ever
Literacy levels in Scotland are at the highest since the data was first collated in 2016. In Orkney the percentage of pupils in P1,P4 and P7 achieving expected CfE (Curriculum for Excellence) levels is at 86% for Reading, compared to the Scottish average of 80%. In Writing Orkney pupils are at 81%, compared to a Scottish average of 76%. The CfE also measures achievement in Listening and Talking, with Orkney pupils…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/13/primary-pupil-literacy-levels-in-orkney-at-highest-ever/

2024-12-12 07:10:18 GMT

Funding Boost to Improve Island Connectivity
Orkney and Shetland will each recieve £10million from the Scottish Government to improve inter island connectivity. The money could be used to improve ferries and flights, or towards fixed links and tunnels. The funding is in addition to £50 million revenue funding available to the four councils (Orkney, Shetland, Argyll & Bute, Highland) which operate their own ferry services, and £4 million to reflect the higher costs of…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/12/funding-boost-to-improve-island-connectivity/

2024-12-11 07:11:15 GMT

Heavy River Engineering Projects in Scotland’s Upland Areas & their Impact on Wild Salmon
Scottish river restoration schemes which are currently receiving large sums of public funding are unlikely to be successful, are based on weak scientific evidence and risk significant degradation of salmon habitat, a leading scientist has warned. Professor Chris Soulsby from the University of Aberdeen and two of Scotland’s most experienced salmon biologists, have set out concerns…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/11/heavy-river-engineering-projects-in-scotlands-upland-areas-their-impact-on-wild-salmon/

2024-12-08 07:05:20 GMT

Space Notes – Losing Data
by Duncan Lunan Last Sunday's article 'Could people be left without heating and hot water when the RTS signal disappears?' by Robert Leslie (ON, December 2nd, 2024), described how BBC Radio 4's last two long-wave valve transmitters, using one-metre-high glass valves of a type no longer made, were scheduled to be switched off at the end of June 2025. When the problem was recognised in 2011 the BBC bought all the ones they could find, ten in…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/08/space-notes-losing-data/

2024-12-07 07:10:13 GMT

“My body survived but my spirit died with my children, it was crushed under the rubble with them.” #Gaza
As food security collapses in Gaza a damning report by Amnesty International has found sufficient basis to conclude that Israeli authorities committed, and continue to commit prohibited acts under the Genocide Convention. Last week, we published ‘Killing Long After They Fall’ #Gaza, and the report from the Danish Refugee Council. People are being killed in Gaza not…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/07/my-body-survived-but-my-spirit-died-with-my-children-it-was-crushed-under-the-rubble-with-them-gaza/

2024-12-07 07:05:14 GMT

Funding Provides Research Opportunity for Sanday Shipwreck: “an incredible and rare finding”
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has awarded £21,000 to Wessex Archaeology and Dendrochronicle to carry out further research of the Sanday Wreck, an intact section of shipwreck timbers uncovered on Sands o’Erraby earlier this year. The funding will support in-depth analysis of the wreck including dating, reporting and archiving to help shed light on this remarkable discovery.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/07/funding-provides-research-opportunity-for-sanday-shipwreck-an-incredible-and-rare-finding/

2024-12-07 07:01:20 GMT

SNP Government’s Draft Budget: Does it deliver hope for Scotland ?
Scrapping the two child benefit cap, free travel for children and young people on our interisland ferries, universal winter fuel payments for pensioners, and increased spending for NHS Scotland: - just some of the measures the SNP Scottish Government's Draft Budget has announced. What's in the detail and what's the reaction to these funding announcements? Does it deliver what is needed ?
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/07/snp-governments-draft-budget-does-it-deliver-hope-for-scotland/

2024-12-06 07:05:14 GMT

Fundraising Campaign to Raise £1.6m to Restore the Hall of Clestrain
A £1.6m fundraising campaign to Save Hall of Clestrain, birthplace of Arctic explorer and ‘Great Scot’ John Rae, will be officially launched by the John Rae Society at a special public event on Monday, December 16 at The Old Library in Kirkwall. Society Chair Cheryl Chapman explained: “We have a small window of opportunity to make this nationally significant Category A Listed building on the Buildings…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/06/fundraising-campaign-to-raise-1-6m-to-restore-the-hall-of-clestrain/

2024-12-04 07:05:19 GMT

Stromness Library: A Harbour View and Nigel
Stromness Library has a long history serving the community of the town and surrounds. It moved from the building now occupied by Solisquoy Printmakers at 2 Hellihole Road, where it had been since 1905, to a multipurpose facility in 2015 , the Warehouse Buildings. In its early days the Stromness Library had a Committee overseeing it. In 1924, the Treasurer J.A.S.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/04/stromness-library-a-harbour-view-and-nigel/

2024-12-04 07:01:17 GMT

Advice on the Consumption of Cold-Smoked Fish
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) remind pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system to avoid eating ready-to-eat cold-smoked or cured fish because of the risk of listeria. Stuart McAdam, Head of Incidents and Resilience at FSS, said: “We understand that smoked fish is a popular choice during the festive season, and for many, with the proper precautions, it can be enjoyed safely.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/04/advice-on-the-consumption-of-cold-smoked-fish/

2024-12-03 07:01:30 GMT

The Sharing of Large Loaves in Late Neolithic Communities of the Near East
During the Late Neolithic, between 7000 and 5000 BCE, the fully agricultural communities in the Fertile Crescent region of the Near East, developed a complex culinary tradition that included the baking of large loaves of bread and “focaccias” with different flavours on special trays known to archaeologists as husking trays.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/03/the-sharing-of-large-loaves-in-late-neolithic-communities-of-the-near-east/

2024-12-02 07:05:11 GMT

Could people be left without heating and hot water when the RTS signal disappears?
The percentages of smart meter installations in households across Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles is currently 12%, 10% and 16% respectively. By Robert Leslie On Sunday 9th October 2011, The Guardian website carried a story under the headline ‘Radio 4’s long wave goodbye’, which described how the ‘last pair of valve transmitters’ would signal the end of 198kHz long wave, home of…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/02/could-people-be-left-without-heating-and-hot-water-when-the-rts-signal-disappears/

2024-12-01 07:10:14 GMT

Poetry Corner: Children of the Bomb
Poem by Edwin Heath. Image by Rosie Hopkins. How easily the raindrops fall,How hard it is to cry!How many hearts are feeling coldOn tropic summer’s day?The wild flowers bloomOn wildest moors,Bright petals in the sun …We cover up our faces, though.And run, and run, and run.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/01/poetry-corner-children-of-the-bomb/

2024-12-01 07:01:18 GMT

Sherlock Holmes #OnThisDay
On 1st December 1887 Sherlock Holmes first appeared in print in "Study in Scarlet" by Arthur Conan Doyle. Cover of Beeton's Christmas Annual for 1887, featuring A. Conan Doyle's story A Study in Scarlet Arthur Conan Doyle wrote the novel at the age of 27 in less than three weeks. As a doctor in general practice in Southsea, Hampshire, he had already published short stories in several magazines of the day, such as the periodical
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/12/01/sherlock-holmes-onthisday/

2024-11-30 07:10:10 GMT

‘Killing Long After They Fall’ #Gaza
Last Saturday, islanders in Orkney took part in their vigil in support of the people of Gaza. The vigil has taken place between 1 and 2pm outside St Magnus Cathedral since October 2023. The weather was wet and the cold wind forced the peace campaigners to huddle together on the steps of the building dedicated to a man of peace.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/30/killing-long-after-they-fall-gaza/

2024-11-30 07:05:17 GMT

The Sky Above You, December 2024
by Duncan Lunan The Moon is New on December 1st and 30th, and Full on December 15th. The crescent Moon is near Venus on the early evening of December 4th and 5th, below the Pleiades on the 13th and above Jupiter on the 14th, and between Mars and Castor and Pollux in Gemini on the 17th. The winter solstice is on December 21st.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/30/the-sky-above-you-december-2024/

2024-11-30 07:01:16 GMT

The Raesurrection of Clestrain
By Eamonn Keyes An update on recent finds made during work at The Hall of Clestrain The access road up to the Hall of Clestrain was still flooded from the recent storm, replete with ankle deep thick mud and a biting cold wind to welcome travellers to this forlorn and derelict piece of Orkney’s past. I saw that Andrew Appleby, President of The John Rae Society and a well-known Orkney figure, was waiting for me across the Somme like…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/30/the-raesurrection-of-clestrain/

2024-11-29 07:05:11 GMT

Scottish Government to bring in Universal Benefit to Help Pensioner Households with Heating Bills
Pension Age Winter Heating Payments will be brought in next year for every pensioner household in Scotland. The UK Labour Government has cut winter heating payments for pensioners with many older people no longer getting that vital financial support. The new benefit from the SNP Scottish Government will be paid to all of Scotland's pensioner households. Pensioners in…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/29/scottish-government-to-bring-in-universal-benefit-to-help-pensioner-households-with-heating-bills/

2024-11-29 07:01:16 GMT

Sewing & Needles: Warm Clothing in the Palaeolithic Era
Palaeolithic humans made needles from the bones of fur-bearers -- including foxes; hares or rabbits; and cats such as bobcats, mountain lions, lynx and possibly even the now-extinct American cheetah. An eyed needle made from the bone of a red fox found at the LaPrele archaeological site in Wyoming’s Converse County. Image credit: Todd Surovell Research by the University of Wyoming has suggested that 13,000 years…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/29/sewing-needles-warm-clothing-in-the-palaeolithic-era/

2024-11-28 07:12:37 GMT

James Stockan to be Awarded Honorary Degree
James Stockan is being awarded an honorary degree from Heriot-Watt University for his outstanding contribution to local government in Scotland and his work championing renewable energy and small island communities around the UK. James Stockan was a councillor for Orkney Islands Council for 20 years. He also served as Leader of OIC from 2017 till his retiral in 2024. He will be presented with the academic title of Doctor of…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/28/james-stockan-to-be-awarded-honorary-degree/

2024-11-28 07:05:11 GMT

Women Face Poorer Care After a Heart Attack
Women in Scotland were less likely than men to receive preventative medicine which could put them at greater risk of further heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular problems according to the first national study assessing sex differences in treatment and outcomes following a heart attack. The study which is published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology follows an earlier study by the authors…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/28/women-face-poorer-care-after-a-heart-attack/

2024-11-27 07:10:14 GMT

Emma Roddick MSP: Labour’s Inadequate Annual Funding Settlement a “wrecking ball moment” for Orkney’s Farmers
I recall, during the General Election campaign that one of the strongest messages coming from Orkney’s farmers was the need for greater certainty around their funding settlement. Orkney’s farmers have made clear for a long time the need for multi-year funding, which needs action at a UK level. This kind of funding model is something that the SNP at Holyrood has…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/27/emma-roddick-msp-labours-inadequate-annual-funding-settlement-a-wrecking-ball-moment-for-orkneys-farmers/

2024-11-27 07:01:14 GMT

Speak Up Against Gender-Based Violence #NoExcuse #16Days
A report has highlighted the essential work being done in Scotland in providing vital support and on tackling gender based violence through preventative measures It covers 120 projects which were funded through the Scottish Government’s Delivering Equally Safe (DES) fund. The front cover features the Peedie Birds of Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service's display in front of St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/27/speak-up-against-gender-based-violence-noexcuse-16days/

2024-11-26 08:03:57 GMT

VisitScotland’s Closure of Islands iCentres “makes absolutely no sense”
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, has contacted Scottish Ministers again calling for a freeze on any more closures of VisitScotland’s iCentres until the concerns of users, staff and union officials are properly considered. Kirkwall is set to welcome 189 cruise liners in 2025 on top of the day visitors, and independent travellers. The iCentre is situated at the travel centre, drop off…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/26/visitscotlands-closure-of-islands-icentres-makes-absolutely-no-sense/

2024-11-26 07:01:14 GMT

Our lives, our privacy: the 40 items that shaped 40 years of privacy rights
An online exhibition has been launched to mark 40 years of The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) . The items include a variety of objects from lawn aerator shoes to mobile phones to the Tesco Clubcard - from 1984 onwards. The ICO has left the “final plinth” empty and is encouraging people to put forward an object representing what privacy means to them.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/26/our-lives-our-privacy-the-40-items-that-shaped-40-years-of-privacy-rights/

2024-11-25 07:06:13 GMT

“Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a direct threat to public health.”
Based on the global average temperature for the most recent 10-year period (2014- 2023), the Earth is now about 1.2°C warmer than it was in the pre-industrial era (1850- 1900). 2023 was the warmest year on record, with the global average near-surface temperature 1.45°C above the pre-industrial baseline. The period 2011-2020 was the warmest decade on record for both land and…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/25/climate-change-is-not-just-an-environmental-issue-it-is-a-direct-threat-to-public-health/

2024-11-25 06:13:04 GMT

A FLOOD WARNING has been issued for Churchill Barriers
WARNING UPDATE. Flooding is expected in Churchill Barriers. Act now. The prevailing weather forecast, along with high tides and large waves means that flooding from the sea is expected during Storm Bert. Strong winds also means that a combination of wave overtopping, spray and debris may result in the closure of the Churchill Barriers. The highest risk is either side of the high tides, at 18:15 on Sunday 24th…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/25/a-flood-warning-has-been-issued-for-churchill-barriers-7/

2024-11-24 07:10:10 GMT

Free Public Libraries: Providing an Essential Community Service
In this short series on the importance of libraries to the communities they serve we have covered: ‘A Library Service for Everyone’: Schools, and Ocean Libraries: The Ultimate in a Mobile Service . This article looks at libraries today and their future development. First and foremost of all a library gives you free access to a huge variety of books which with just a library card (also free) you can borrow…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/24/free-public-libraries-providing-an-essential-community-service/

2024-11-24 07:05:10 GMT

Battle of Solway Moss #OnThisDay
On 24th November 1542, The Battle of Solway Moss, was fought. It was a disaster for the Scots against a much smaller English force. An army of 15,000–18,000 Scots advanced into England. Lord Maxwell, though never officially designated commander of the force, declared he would lead the attack in person. A report of George Douglas of Pittendreich, who was not present, and some later chronicle accounts, say that in the absence of Maxwell, …
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/24/battle-of-solway-moss-onthisday/

2024-11-22 07:10:12 GMT

#StormBert : an antidote in soup form
Here is a recipe for a hearty Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/22/stormbert-an-antidote-in-soup-form/

2024-11-22 07:05:15 GMT

Concerning Rise in Mortality Rates Among Middle-Aged Adults Since 2012
After the Covid-19 pandemic, many countries, including the UK, continued to experience higher-than-expected mortality rates. This rise is commonly attributed to the pandemic’s effects on health and healthcare. New research by the University of Aberdeen has suggested that the rise in excess deaths reported since the end of the pandemic are part of a longer-term trend and not the result of a ‘pandemic…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/22/concerning-rise-in-mortality-rates-among-middle-aged-adults-since-2012/

2024-11-21 07:10:17 GMT

Swandro 25
By Bernie Bell We watched an episode of ‘Digging for Britain‘ in which Alice Roberts visited the Swandro dig, Rousay This got me thinking about the fact that archaeology digs are finite events and however interesting the site is a point is reached when the diggers have done what can be done at the time, and digging is replaced with writing up what has been discovered so far – as happened with the Ness of Brodgar…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/21/swandro-25/

2024-11-20 07:04:06 GMT

By 1833 there were 80 libraries on board British merchant ships administered by the Ocean Libraries Department of the British and Foreign Sailors Society. This number soon increased. From 1860 to 1880 5,000 libraries were established on merchant vessels. This was a mobile library service in every way.
Ocean Libraries: The Ultimate in a Mobile Service https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/20/ocean-libraries-the-ultimate-in-a-mobile-service/ #Culture, #Libraries #BookWeekScotland

2024-11-15 07:41:48 GMT

“There is a profound imbalance of power that runs deep through the existing regulatory regime. This has caused science to be ignored, the precautionary principle to be abandoned, and the voices of local stakeholders to be marginalised in favour of multinational business.”
Environment v Economy: Scottish Farmed Salmon https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/15/environment-v-economy-scottish-farmed-salmon/ #Aquaculture, #FarmedSalmon, #Fishing, #MarineEnvironment, #News, #OrkneyTroutFishingAssociation, #Salmon, #ScottishParliament, #WildFish

2024-11-15 07:39:36 GMT

An asteroid struck Mars 11 million years ago and sent pieces of the red planet hurtling through space. One of these chunks of Mars eventually crashed into the Earth somewhere near Purdue and is one of the few meteorites that can be traced directly to Mars. ...mage credit: Purdue University
Mars Meteorite "uniquely has evidence that it has reacted with water." https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/15/mars-meteorite-uniquely-has-evidence-that-it-has-reacted-with-water/ #Geology, #Mars, #Research, #Science, #Space

2024-11-14 07:10:18 GMT

£1.9billion in Payments Delivered by Social Security Scotland
£1.9 billion in payments were made to people in Scotland from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 across 14 Scottish benefits, seven of which are not available anywhere else in the UK. The information is contained in the Social Security Scotland 2023-2024 Annual Report and Accounts. Scottish Child Payment Orkney Since 2020, 10,535 payments were made in Orkney for the Scottish Child Payment benefit amounting to…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/14/1-9billion-in-payments-delivered-by-social-security-scotland/

2024-11-14 07:05:19 GMT

Thor & Freya of Orkney: ‘a coffee experience that goes beyond just taste’
Thor & Freya of Orkney: Celebrating the Rich Heritage of Ethiopia and Orkney Through Coffee Thor & Freya of Orkney, a new family-owned coffee business based in Kirkwall, is inviting the Orkney community to share in a truly unique coffee experience that bridges two vibrant heritages. Founded by Lilly and John, proud Ethio-Orcadian parents of two, Thor & Freya of Orkney unites the deep-rooted…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/14/thor-freya-of-orkney-a-coffee-experience-that-goes-beyond-just-taste/

2024-11-14 07:01:17 GMT

Kirkwall Post Office: Once the heart of island communications
Kirkwall Post Office lingers under a dark cloud of future closure announced on 13th November under 'Transformation' plans by Post Office Ltd. Before emails and social media, sending letters and telegrams (if it was urgent) was the way most people would communicate with each other. On 30th of January 1747 Orkney's first Post Master, Andrew Young of Castleyards was appointed.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/14/kirkwall-post-office-once-the-heart-of-island-communications/

2024-11-13 13:42:14 GMT

Post Office Closures: ” a new chapter for Post Office” Announces Chairman
Kirkwall Post Office in Junction Road is one of hundreds of Post Office Crown branches which may close under the company's Transformation Plans. There was a time in its once great history that the Post Office and Royal Mail were basically the same thing, and people today still get that confused. Elected politicians and Government decided to change that and creeping privatisation took place –…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/13/post-office-closures-a-new-chapter-for-post-office-announces-chairman/

2024-11-13 07:10:16 GMT

Unleash Your Creativity
The exhibition 'Casting Light’ by Anne Bevan and Mark Edmonds finishes at the Northlight Gallery, Stromness, this coming Saturday. It will be followed by the Fair Saturday Open Exhibition. This year there is an open call to all ages to make a handmade card or small artwork on the theme of KINDNESS to exhibit in Northlight for Fair Saturday on the 30th November.
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/13/unleash-your-creativity/

2024-11-13 07:01:15 GMT

Emma Roddick MSP: The Case for a Rural Visa Scheme
I was pleased to be able to speak in a debate in Holyrood last week on the impacts of Brexit on Scotland’s rural economy – and to highlight the need for a different policy approach to suit Scotland, not least around immigration and a Rural Visa Pilot Scheme. It feels like a perfect storm of post-Brexit implementation issues are still having serious knock-on implications for our rural communities and on our £15 billion…
https://theorkneynews.scot/2024/11/13/emma-roddick-msp-the-case-for-a-rural-visa-scheme/

2024-11-12 08:17:55 GMT

- reply

an incredible location and very poignant to visit