Shetland, the Orkney Islands and the Hebrides were formerly part of the kingdom of Norway. Orkney is now looking for an alternative form of government – and Norway is one of them.
- On Tuesday next week, a report will be presented investigating alternative forms of government in the Orkney Islands.
- One of the proposals to consider is for the Orkney Islands to become a self-governing territory under Norway.
- The leader of the board on the archipelago, James Stockan, said that while exploring alternatives is resource-intensive, it is important to consider for future generations.
- The Orkney Islands have strong cultural and historical roots in Norway. Norwegians settled the islands around 800 AD, and the islands remained Norwegian possessions until the Scots took over in the 15th century.
- British expert, Øivind Bratberg, said the problem arose because politicians on the islands felt they were receiving less attention from both the London and Scottish governments.
Next week, a report will be presented investigating alternative forms of government in the Orkney Islands, which are currently part of the United Kingdom, it writes BBC.
The islands, previously under the control of Norway and Denmark, are considering becoming part of Norway again.
– We have a deep sense of belonging and cultural connection. We are at a time where we have to explore a range of possibilities, Orkney board chairman James Stockan told the newspaper.
One of the proposals was for the Orkney Islands to become a self-governing territory under Norway.
This will be discussed in Orkney Council on Tuesday.
The Orkney Islands have deep roots in Norway
Norwegians settled the islands in the decade around 800, and Harald Hårfagre established Norwegian rule there in 875.
The islands remained in the possession of Norway until Scotland took over in the 15th century. In 1472, Norway lost Shetland and Orkney.
If you look at the flag of the Orkney Islands, it also looks like the flag of Norway.
Investigating possibilities requires resources
Stockan will consider alternative forms of government as he believes Orkney is not receiving fair funding.
– The funding we get from the Scottish Government is far less than what the Shetland and Western Isles get to run the same service, he told the paper.
– We can’t go on like this, he added.
While it will be a demanding process and many resources are required to investigate the alternatives, Stockan believes it is important to look at the possibilities.
– We are looking for the best for future generations, he added.
– Nice scenario
University lecturer and UK expert Øivind Bratberg believes Norway’s return to the country is a very good scenario.
He said the problem arose because politicians on the islands felt they were receiving less attention from the governments of London and Scotland.
– The Orkney Islands are politically and culturally on the edge of Great Britain, and no major adjustments are needed if we look at Norway and the Nordic countries.
– As this issue arises now, it is still a discussion about the economy and living conditions in the British Union, he added.
Bratberg argues that increased funding and greater autonomy are the desired cure here.
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