Eriskay is a small island situated between Barra and South Uist. It is approximately 3 miles long and 2 miles wide, with a combination of rough, rocky terrain and sandy beaches. In 2001 Eriskay was connected to South Uist by a causeway.

At present, the population is approximately 140, having declined from 500 at the beginning of the twentieth century. Due to the lack of good agricultural land, Eriskay's inhabitants have always turned to the sea and shore for a source of food and income. However, the fall in population and the challenges facing the fishing industry at present has meant that the once thriving fishing fleet has now dwindled to four or five small boats, each with one or two crew. The remaining fishermen concentrate on shell fishing - lobster, prawn, brown and velvet crab.

The island's Co-chomunn (Co-op), which was established in 1981, provides the only commercial outlet for the community and employment for four people. The church, school and community hall are the main venues for social interaction amongst local people.

The group are looking at, and have achieved success in a number of projects, including:
Acarsaid Harbour
Local History Project
Sound of Barra Ferry
Eriskay Pony Heritage Centre
Permanent premises for the Croileagan
Improvements to the Community Hall

Eriskay Pony Heritage Centre - to build a centre to interpret the Eriskay ponies, and to provide café and waiting facilities at the Ceann a Gharaidh ferry terminal.
Local History Project - to gather information and material for exhibitions to celebrate the history and culture of the island
Social Inclusion Initiatives - to provide equipment and activities to help the young people living on the island and those who spend summer holidays on Eriskay take an active part in their community.

In terms of projects completed and planned, the Eriskay Community Council has been fairly active. The group were very strong and active in the period leading up to the delivery of the causeway to Eriskay and in many ways it is understandable if they now appear less active as they have achieved what was their No. 1 objective. Neil Macdonald, who has acted as Chairman of the Eriskay Community Council for many years, leads the group. Major projects left to address are: A visitor centre at the new pier incorporating an Eriskay Pony Society information point/office and toilet facilities etc. a picnic area and improvements to the fishing pier.

Eriskay exited the Initiate at the Edge on the 31st of March 04 and is now on the follow up phase

The Western Isles Steering Group have now finalised their Local Agreements detailing the outstanding projects still to be delivered and also the amount of Local Development Officer provision for the Follow Up phase.

Some of the content for the Local Agreement will be available shortly

If you require further information please contact

Linda Lennie
Tel: 01851-700 455
E-mail linda.lennie@hient.co.uk