We are a group of local people formally constituted as a partnership, who share the same concerns for our environment. We also understand the delicate nature of our rural communities and the local concerns over employment and small local businesses. As the Coastal & Marine National Park process has become established in Scotland and to reflect the other interests of the Hebridean Partnership, the name was changed at the November 2006 AGM. Due to what appears to be a reluctance by the relevant authorities in Scotland to engage in the spirit of the Habitats Directive and other existing environmental legislation the Partnership has emerged partly as a "watchdog group". Our primary aims of protecting the marine and maritime environment and promoting sustainable, environmentally friendly methods for harvesting the seas resources remain.  

The idea of a Marine Protected Area is a community-based proposal. Promotion of environmentally friendly, sustainable use of the seas will be encouraged. By working together with local communities and businesses, we can identify potential problems. The aims of the Partnership will be achieved mainly by cooperation and a self-regulating policy. The National Park (Scotland) Act 2000 is currently the only legislation available in Scotland capable of producing a coherent holistic approach, one that can take into account the big picture, the whole picture. To sustain Scotland's marine resources for our future and that of our children we desperately need to act, and now. Even if we want to keep the Scottish coast as it currently exists we need to act. 

Membership of the Partnership is £10 per year, this however remains at your discretion. The Partnership functions totally by funds from membership and private donations. The Hebridean Partnership is grateful to WWF Scotland and Forward Scotland for their support during the Partnership's first year, this support provided funds for a Publicity Leaflet, a Newsletter and allowed access to several island locations for talks. Membership is open to all: individuals, schools, communities, businesses, fisheries, aquaculture, groups and organisations. As a local, voluntary group, we all have an equal say, an equal input. There is strength in numbers and as a Partnership we have become "known" within many circles. Not all of these circles appreciate our input or contributions but as with global climate change, it is time to act, biodiversity is part of our heritage, we all have a stake, not just those with commercial interests. If you would like to become a member, or wish to express your views we would welcome hearing from you, details can be found on the "Contacts" page.