McArthur presses government as Visually Impaired People's Group raise alarm over Inverness route cuts 

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur met with members of the local Visually Impaired People’s Group who reiterated concerns about the impact that cuts to air services between Orkney and Inverness will have on those attending ophthalmology appointments in Inverness. At the meeting in the St Magnus Centre yesterday afternoon, the group urged Mr McArthur to continue doing everything possible to have services on the routes reinstated as soon as possible.

In a wide-ranging discussion, members of the VIP group also highlighted difficulties experienced by those with serious sight loss in trying to access different services. There was a frustration that the specific needs of those with sight loss are not routinely factored in when designing buildings, road crossings or technology like smarts meters and cash machines.

Commenting after the meeting, Mr McArthur said:

“I am very grateful to the VIP group for taking the time to share with me their experiences. I came away from the discussion with a much better understanding of the sorts of challenges those with serious sight loss face within our community.

“It was a reminder of the key role the VIP group plays in providing advice, support and companionship for those affected by sight loss. This practical and pastoral support can be particularly important for those coming to terms with a recent diagnosis.

“A number of the practical suggestions made by VIP group members about where improvements might be made are ones I plan to take up with local businesses and service providers.

 “It was no great surprise, of course, to hear real concerns about the removal of air services on the Inverness route. The cuts to these lifeline routes mean patients attending ophthalmology appointments in Inverness face greater uncertainty, inconvenience and costs.

“On the back of yesterday’s meeting, I have written once again to the Transport Secretary urging him to ensure that a resolution is reached so that these vital air services, including those between Orkney and Shetland, can be reinstated as quickly as possible.”