Scottish Islands: Live here and earn 50 thousand pounds

Municipalities of several Scottish islands have announced an offer of £50,000 in welcome money to families moving in in a bid to boost their dwindling population.

The first "golden welcome" is due to be delivered within weeks after consultation with the Scottish government.

The Scottish government said it intends to offer 100 bonds at a cost of 5 million pounds, with the first batch of these bonds to be presented "in the summer".

She said it was aid directed at "some of our most vulnerable communities".

 Speaking to The Times, Alasdair Allan, a representative of the Western Isles, said that "declining population" is one of the biggest threats facing "island communities" and that "reversal trends should be encouraged to reduce population".

"These bonds will support people in buying homes, starting businesses, and otherwise making their lives here for the long term," he added.

Not everyone was convinced, however. Liberal Democrat Liam MacArthur said that "this would only benefit a small minority and that government should use the money for things that would benefit societies in general."

He argued that "poor transport, lack of broadband and unaffordable housing are just some of the factors that impede economic prosperity" and that "instead of offering bribes to individuals, Scottish ministers should instead commit to investing in projects that benefit the island's communities as a whole." ».

But the government defended its plan, saying it was "not a bribery" or "a gimmick".

West Islands Council Chairman Wesdian Robertson, Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, pointed out that this new plan has won the attention of people even as far away as South America.

He also said what was needed was "young people with their families" who wanted the island life, not just anyone thinking it was an easy way to get £50,000.

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