Call for calm, cooperation and consideration as residents and businesses in Ross-shire prepare for visitors influx as coronavirus restrictions ease
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ROSS-SHIRE residents gearing up for the return of visitors in a milestone moment in the coronavirus crisis are being urged to remember the hard lessons learned during months of lockdown.
An MP acknowledging the sense of trepidation felt by many as the tourism industry prepares to open up said: "As far as I’m concerned, the only unwelcome visitor in these parts would be Covid-19."
Ian Blackford – who had earlier led no-nonsense calls on visitors breaking lockdown to stay away – made his remarks on the eve of the Scottish Government sanctioned easing of restrictions which signal hope for a tourism trade which supports thousands of jobs across the county.
The Ross-shire MP admitted the First Minister’s announcement of the easing of lockdown measures had been met with a mixture of relief and trepidation in his constituency.
The SNP's Westminster leader said “I know a lot of hard work is under way to put in place the important safeguarding measures required to enable businesses to get up and running. However, I am also aware that many residents are genuinely concerned about how this renewed freedom of movement might affect our vulnerable communities.
“I would hate to see any negative reaction to the return of visitors – it’s about mutual respect and so much of the local economy relies on tourism. As far as I’m concerned, the only unwelcome visitor in these parts would be Covid-19 so, as long as those who visit our communities follow local guidelines, act responsibly and follow Scottish Government advice, they will be welcome.
“This is, first and foremost, a health crisis and we all need to keep following the guidelines. Anyone with concerns should continue to alert the police by calling 101.”
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson said said she understands concerns but added: "At the same time we need to get back to work and back to offering that warm welcome that people are so used to when they come to this part of the world.
"We must not forget all the things we have learned: keep a safe distance, wear a mask when in shops or on public transport, wash your hands and only meet outside the home."
Maxine Smith, a Cromarty Firth ward councillor also involved in the visitor trade, highlighted the role of tourism in the local economy and said: "Let's welcome our visitors in our usual friendly way from a distance whilst making sure they’re aware of our rules regarding coronavirus in Scotland, which might be different from their own country.
"We’ve been through a very frightening three months but let’s remember in the Highlands we had the fewest cases of Covid–19 compared to anywhere else in the UK. Of course we want to keep it that way but with the correct protection and safety measures in place and with people all wearing masks in public places and shops then there’s every reason to believe the Highlands can stay Covid-free."
MSP Kate Forbes said: “It is incumbent on all of us to work together. I would like to see tourism businesses and organisations engaging with local communities who might have questions about what it means for them, and vice versa."
She said tourism "has always been the lifeblood of the Highlands" and that she has discussed concerns with the Scottish Tourism Alliance, which recognises the importance of working with local communities and supporting guidance that offers reassurance.
She said: “Now is an opportunity to reach out to local people and share, in a transparent way, how rural communities will work together. We are all in this together.”
