Islanders are unique people. I have often tried to make the point that we Irish should be particularly proud to claim that uniqueness because we live on an island at the edge of Western Europe. It is not a claim that is foremost in the minds of the majority of those who live on the Irish mainland; more is the pity in my view because if it were, there would probably be more understanding of the importance of the maritime sphere to this island nation.
The offshore islands are banded together under the umbrella of the Islands' Federation, Comhdhail Oilean na hEireann. They say their needs should be considered together as one region, which would be in line with the policy of other European countries, as opposed to what is done administratively in Ireland where each island is linked to its mainland county.
In its document' Our Rural Future, the Department of Rural and Community Development said that its ambition for the offshore islands is "to ensure our offshore islands continue to support sustainable and vibrant communities."
That needs to become a reality, according to islanders.
The Department has been working on an island policy document which it is understood will be completed early this year… The lack of appropriate, year-round affordable housing has been identified as a primary hurdle to island sustainability.
Listen to my Podcast below about the continued fight for survival by the offshore island communities.
