Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch is pleased to learn that the European and Structural Investment funding allocation for the Highlands and Islands Transition region (€192m) will remain protected.

There had been some concern in the media that the new Structural and Investment Programme would lead to a central belt focus on fund allocation.

However, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) have confirmed that the funding will remain ring fenced and that they will be involved in the administration and delivery of the new EU programmes, where their remit allows.

Commenting in this Mr Thompson said, “I was aware there had been some reports in the press that the funding allocation was in jeopardy so to have the ring fenced funds confirmed for the Highlands and Islands is excellent news”.

He went on, “I welcome the fact that HIE will still be involved in the administration and delivery of the funds and I look forward to finding out the specific details of their involvement”.

Also contained within the proposed governance structure is a Highlands and Islands Territorial Committee.

In responding to this Dave said, “The duties of the Highlands and Islands Territorial Committee will be to oversee and guide programme delivery in the region, which will ensure the best deal for the Highlands and Islands”.

Notes:

The following information was received from Rob Clarke, Head of Policy at HIE:

HIE will be involved in the administration / delivery of the new EU programmes where the activity aligns with our remit – particularly in business development and innovation and also in relation to our energy / low carbon and communities remit. Detail on this is still work in progress.

The proposed governance structure does include a Highlands and Islands Territorial Committee to oversee and guide programme delivery in the region.

There is a ring fenced funding allocation for the Highlands and Islands Transition region (€192m).

The detail of specific activities, governance and administration is currently being worked on. In parallel, the UK Partnership Agreement and Scottish Operational Programmes are being considered by the European Commission.