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WESTERN ISLES TRANSITIONAL PROGRAMME STRATEGY

2000-2006

Final Version - 19 September 2000

5 STRATEGIC ISSUES

The following strategic issues have been identified from the analysis of baseline indicators to this regional Strategy document (contained in Appendix 1).

Relative Prosperity

How best to increase the incomes and prosperity of the Western Isles relative to the performance of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland and the European Union.

Social and Economic Disparities

The need to reduce social and economic disparities within the Western Isles.

Employment and Economic Structure

In a unique and vulnerable economy there is a need to create and safeguard sustainable quality employment opportunities and to support business and community developments which add value.

Social Inclusion

The need to ensure that all individuals and communities can realise their potential and thereby make a full contribution to the development of the Western Isles.

Peripherality and Insularity

How best to address the problems of infrastructure and service provision in the Western Isles caused by peripherality and insularity, exacerbated by the Islands geographic location within the Highlands and Islands.

Natural and Cultural Capital

How best to build on the quality of the natural and cultural capital of the Western Isles through the promotion of sustainable economic development.