Steven Coutts, Leader, Shetland Islands Council: “I am extremely disappointed to hear, through the media, of the planned restrictions on group travel on Serco Northlink
“We learned through Twitter of the imposition of transport restrictions, and removal of vessels, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“To see a repeat of significant announcements being made without any discussion with the Council is extremely regrettable, and I will be seeking an urgent dialogue with Government on this issue. Decisions having such an impact on our community should be made with us, not imposed on us.
“This will significantly undermine our tourism and hospitality sector in Shetland, an industry that has suffered more than most, but played a really strong part in the wider control of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We clearly do not know where Shetland will be come 2021, but to see this decision made in this manner is really damaging to public confidence.”