Letters / Much to gain
Jonathan Wills knows a fair bit more than most about the history of the oil industry in Shetland and his long held position on Shetland not getting enough in rent from Sullom Voe (Peppercorn rent; SN, 30/11/2018) serves further attention.
There was a time when the industry played Shetland off against Orkney. They have no interest in playing fair and have had too easy a ride for far too long.
There have indeed been those inside the council who take the oil industry perspective as gospel. Another matter too easily neglected is that the monies set aside for social disturbance were meant to be able to address the inevitable social harms that were bound to result from a small number of people playing host to a huge development like Sullom Voe, which would inevitably see some prosper with others left far behind.
That widening gap causes problems still, yet there appears to be little ambition to make sure the oil industry makes a proper contribution or indeed that a fair share of the money provided gets to those in greatest need.
In comparison to many other issues that command public attention Shetland has much to gain from properly addressing this situation.
Peter Hamilton
Scalloway
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
