Community transport services in the Western Isles will be supported by the Islands Cost Crisis Emergency Fund in the coming year, meeting vital needs in rural areas, particularly in Barra and Uist.
The motion was approved at the full meeting of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar last week.
Councillor Susan Thomson, who moved the motion, said: “It is really welcome that the Scottish Government has set aside extra funding to mitigate the higher costs of living experienced by islanders.
“And it is entirely right that these vital transport services in rural areas should benefit from this funding.”
The SNP Group on the council had opposed a budget cut in February, which would have seen swingeing cuts to community transport and have a negative impact on the lives of vulnerable groups, whilst losing posts and volunteering opportunities.
Councillor Thomson continued: “These services provide lifelines to people with health and mobility problems or those without access to other transport, whether that is for medical appointments or respite, hospital, education, shopping or social events."
Councillor Thomson, who is also the SNP candidate for the forthcoming General Election, concluded: “I am delighted this proposal was accepted by colleagues across the chamber.”
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