No island is an island? Western Isles tunnel plan revives Channel Tunnel debate
Being an islander is as much a state of mind as it is about geography or economics
Britain has long been proud of its status as an island nation. However, according to some, it no longer is, with the creation of a ‘dry land’ link to France, the Channel Tunnel, in 1994 reducing us to a large but mere promontory of Europe.
So it is understandable that Western Isles councillors are divided over the idea of building a tunnel to Skye, which is, of course, already connected to the mainland by a bridge.
During a debate, one councillor said the proposal would be “a huge retrograde step for us as islanders”, saying ensuring better ferry services “would hopefully protect our culture, our heritage and our communities from 24-hour access to all and sundry”. Heaven forbid.
Other councillors argued in favour, saying it would help address depopulation. There were warnings they would be “letting down a future generation” by not investigating the idea further.
Being an islander is as much a state of mind as it is about geography or economics. ‘No man is an island’ is one thing, but ‘no island is an island’ is another matter entirely. Only the islanders themselves can make the call.
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