On the 9th September in Shetland the CoR's COTER commission hosted a meeting which examined the issue of "Overcoming Barriers to Economic Development – a remote Island Perspective" in Lerwick, Scotland. The meeting was well attended by many members of the CoR and in particular of members from Island and Rural areas.
"It has always been difficult to explain to anyone from outwith the islands the unique circumstances that exist in Shetland; so I’m delighted that the COTER Commission of the Committee of the Regions agreed to hold this seminar here", said Cllr Gary Robinson, Leader of Shetland Islands Council, opening the debate, stressing that: " Not only have delegates from all across Europe had the chance to see at first hand the challenges that exist in one of Europe’s most remote archipelagos, they could also share experiences and discuss how such barriers to economic development can be overcome.".
The meeting focused on the local solutions which can be found to overcome the economic difficulties as well as an EU territorial approach to rural areas. The visit included a very interesting visit to a local business who on a daily basis have to overcome barriers while ensuring that their business can achieve success.
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