The EU's "one size fits all" approach does not suit island economies dependent on marine activities, according to a new policy document published by the Irish Islands Federation, Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann.
Islands need policies that support sustainable and permanent communities, the document states. The publication of the document coincides with a new documentary tonight on the forced evacuation almost 50 years ago of Co Galway's Inis Airc.
The policy document, which has been submitted to Government, states the case for a total population of just under 2,900 people, living on 33 islands affiliated to the federation. It lays great emphasis on the need for sustainable, rather than unplanned, tourism. Investment in infrastructure should not just be driven by tourism, but designed to support sustainable economic activities such as commercial fishing and farming.
Specific policies in relation to agriculture, access, childcare, education, enterprise and employment, environment, fire and emergency services, health and social services, housing and planning, marine and waste management require a "flexible and imaginative approach" from State departments and agencies, the document says.
The federation acknowledges that a commitment of €126 million by the Government to islands in the National Development Plan represents progress, but there is still a strong memory of official neglect.
Tonight's documentary on the "death" of a community on Inis Airc chronicles how pleas for a simple winch to haul out currachs were ignored by successive governments.
While the neighbouring island of Inishbofin had one of the finest natural harbours on the west coast, Inis Airc, three miles away and nine miles from Cleggan, was always very exposed. The population of just under 100 had some of the finest currach oarsmen, but no priest, doctor or communication. In an emergency, a bonfire was lit on the hill to seek help.
Kieran Concannon's documentary includes interviews with former Inis Airc residents, and British newsreel footage of the eventual evacuation in 1960. It occurred three years after a young man died of appendicitis on the island, and 13 years after three young men returning from Mass on Inishbofin drowned in their currach.
Thomas Lacey (78), father of two of the three young men lost at sea, refused to leave with his 23 neighbours on evacuation day. When everyone had departed for a new life near Cleggan, Mr Lacey set three places at the dinner table. He agreed to quit the following day, having told the priest that his sons had "come to him during the night".
Inis Airc: Bas Oileáin is on TG4 tonight at 10pm.
