A major piece of legislation granting further powers to island communities has been signed into law by the Queen.
The Islands Bill has received Royal Assent and came into force yesterday after a long campaign.
It has been called “a landmark achievement for the councils in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles.”
The Islands Bill was a key aim of the Our Islands Our Future campaign led by the three local authorities working together.
They sought more decision making powers at a local level to ensure greater economic prosperity for their communities.
It paves the way for measures that allow a further devolution of powers for island communities.
It will also enable the “island proofing” of existing as well as future policies and legislation, ensuring that these take into account their special circumstances.
The three Councils are bringing forward proposals for an ambitious Islands Deal that aim to be economically transformational.
Orkney Islands Council leader James Stockan said: “The Bill passing into law after the granting of Royal Assent is a hugely significant moment in the history of our communities.
“We presented a compelling case to the Scottish Government and to MSPs from across the political spectrum. The result is fit-for-purpose legislation that will underpin our efforts to ensure a secure and prosperous future for the people of the islands.”
Roddie Mackay, leader of the Western Isles said: “This is an important, historical day for our Islands and indeed, for all of Scotland’s islands.
“This has been a pioneering process that will result in real, practical benefits for our communities.
“It is also a major step forward in empowering the people that live and work on Scotland’s Islands.”
Steven Coutts, leader of Shetland Islands Council, said: “This is a historic achievement for our islands, and marks a new phase of collaboration between these three island authorities and national government.”
He added: “This is enabling legislation, and much will now depend on future support from the Scottish Government to develop guidance to embed the legislation and help achieve our ambitions for the future.”