Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) is investing more than £45,000 to improve safety at Milton Harbour on Tiree for the island's fleet of fishing vessels.

The small port, on the east of the island, currently has no navigation facilities with boats having to negotiate a narrow channel in the hours of darkness as they make their way home.

With backing from AIE however, new navigation marks and lights will significantly improve safety at Milton Harbour.  Moorings are also being established at the more sheltered Balephetrish Bay, on the north west side of Tiree, to provide a safe haven for boats when the weather and sea conditions make it hazardous to return to Milton Harbour.

Tiree has a fleet of six fishing vessels employing approximately 15 people.  Their catch usually comprises velvet crab, brown crab and lobster, which are picked up by lorry on a weekly basis for onward transportation to Spain.

The investment by AIE at Milton Harbour will not only improve working conditions for the island's fishermen but will naturally improve facilities for visiting leisure craft too, providing a welcome boost for Tiree's tourism industry.

Commenting on the developments, Myra Brown of the Milton Harbour Association said: "We greatly welcome the funding from AIE.  Their contribution has enabled us to carry out much needed safety improvements which will be a great asset and will help to secure the long term future of the fishing industry on Tiree."

Chief executive at AIE, Ken Abernethy said: "This is an extremely significant project for Tiree, which is one of our most fragile islands.  By improving working conditions for these fishermen it may encourage youngsters to stay on the island and follow in their fathers footsteps.

"Of course, this project is just one of several major developments underway on Tiree, benefiting the island and its people.  For example, work is ongoing to secure a new auction mart and village hall and we, in partnership with other organisations, are hoping to employ a development officer who will devise and take forward a development plan for Tiree."