The leaders of Scotland’s island councils have agreed an “ambitious workplan” for talks with the Scottish Government over new powers.
Local government minister Derek Mackay held talks with Orkney, Shetland and Western Isles council bosses.
The meeting took place after First Minister Alex Salmond announced last month there would be discussions on whether the islands should have more control over their own affairs.
Thursday’s talks in Edinburgh looked at options for devolving the functions of the Crown Estate. The possibility of giving the islands more control over energy, renewables, transport and governance issues will be discussed at later meetings.
Mr Mackay said: “I’m pleased we discussed an ambitious workplan to look at the potential for further devolution of powers for Scotland’s islands and the opportunities independence could open up for our island communities.
“I look forward to developing this agenda in more detail and agreeing a prospectus for the future of the islands in the context of the referendum.”
Steven Heddle, convener of Orkney Islands Council said: “We hope for continuing productive discussion and significant and tangible benefits for our communities as a result.”
Shetland Islands Council leader Gary Robinson added: “It’s particularly important as we approach a time of constitutional change to explore all the options that may be available to us.”
However, the Liberal Democrat MSPs for Orkney and Shetland accused the SNP of holding out the prospect of extra powers after independence as a “bribe” to islanders ahead of next year’s referendum.
Shetland MSP and former Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott said: “The notion that islanders will be conned by the sun always shining after independence is laughable.”
Orkney MSP Liam McArthur added: “It is disappointing that SNP ministers seem intent of treating this as yet another ‘bribe’ ahead of next year’s referendum.”