First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has pledged to investigate a row over the introduction of controversial parking charges at island airports.
The SNP leader said it would have been “remiss” of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (Hial) if the decision had been taken without consultation.
The issue was raised at first minister’s questions in Holyrood yesterday by Tavish Scott, the Liberal Democrat MSP for Shetland.
He said: “The first minister may be aware that, last Thursday, Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd announced its intention to introduce car parking charges at Sumburgh, Kirkwall and Stornoway airports.
“She will be aware that Sumburgh is 25 miles from Lerwick and that there are no direct public transport links to most of Shetland.
“Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd has done that with no consultation whatsoever. Will she look into the matter and reverse that decision?”
Responding, Ms Sturgeon said: “I will certainly look into the matter. I absolutely understand the point that Tavish Scott makes, given the geography of the airport in Shetland.
“If it is the case that there was no consultation, that was remiss of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd.
“However, I will look into the issue and get back to him when I have had the opportunity to do so.”
Hial’s managing director Inglis Lyon has said that it is committed to being open and transparent in its operations and the decision was taken to ensure the long-term sustainability of the airports, with raised revenue to be reinvested at the sites.
