Last week Scottish Conservative and Unionist General Election candidate, Amanda Hampsey, visited Islay. During her time there and in her Councillor role as Policy Lead for Health & Social Care and Chair of the Integrated Joint Board, she was pleased to tour Islay Hospital and Gortonvogie Care Home. Amanda was delighted to have the opportunity to speak with staff, patients and residents throughout all departments. Amanda also took the time to visit some local businesses, fishermen and many local residents.

From speaking with islanders on Islay, it became clear that the SNP has abandoned rural and island communities in the Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber constituency with their obsession of holding another independence referendum.

Additionally, the SNP’s proposed HPMAs policy caused a great deal of stress and anxiety amongst rural and island communities, such as Islay where the fishing industry plays a significant role in the local economy. Finally, the SNP government’s shambolic handling of the ferry scandal has also impacted Islay with many delays, cancellations, and worrisomely poor regularity of ferry services, which she has experience herself on many occasions.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party is working hard on the issues that really matter to residents of rural and island communities, such as improving ferry services, bolstering public services, and supporting small and local businesses.

On her visit, Amanda said, “It was a pleasure to visit Islay last week. It is such a beautiful part of the constituency and the people there are so friendly. However, it is clear that the SNP government in Edinburgh is failing the people of Islay and they deserve better.

“It is clear that the residents here want and deserve a strong Scottish Conservative and Unionist voice to represent them in Westminster. I am the best placed candidate to beat the SNP here in Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber.”