Digital forums

SHETLAND and Orkney MP Alistair Carmichael is hosting a series of northern isles digital forums to give local people the opportunity to discuss mobile phone and broadband services difficulties with service providers.

The forum will bring together representatives from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Shetland Islands Council and mobile network Everything Everywhere (Orange).

Mr Carmichael said that BT was also committed “in principle” to attend, while invitations had also gone out to other mobile providers including the industry body Mobile Operators Association (MOA).

The LibDem MP said the Shetland forum, to take place on 14 February at the Islesburgh Community Centre between 3pm and 5pm, was the start of a process.

“For years people across the northern isles have been at the back of the queue when it comes to accessing digital services. In places like Orkney and Shetland, improvements to mobile and internet would provide a real economic boost.

“The northern isles digital forum will give everyone the chance to raise issues of concern with some of the companies and others involved in boosting digital services in Orkney and Shetland.”

A similar meeting will be held in Orkney during the same week.