Procurement - SME and third sector action plan 2024-2026: island communities impact assessment

Scottish Government SME and Third Sector Procurement Action Plan 2024-2026 : Island Communities Impact Assessment

Islands Act (Scotland) Act 2018

The Islands act was published in 2018. Section 13 of the Act states that the Scottish Ministers must prepare an ICIA in relation to legislation which, in their opinion, is likely to have an effect on an island community which is significantly different from its effect on other communities (including other island communities) in Scotland. Scottish Ministers are required to consider and develop ICIA’s in line with the Act.

SME and Third Sector Action Plan

The SME and Third Sector Procurement Action Plan has been developed in consultation with representative organisations from across Scotland, whose membership reflect and incorporate the Island communities. The action plan does not introduce a new policy, but consolidates existing policy, practice and guidance into a single information source in order to improve accessibility to and awareness of the range of services, support and guidance for SMEs in Scotland through public procurement.

Decision on ICIA

An ICIA is not required for the SME and Third Sector Procurement Action Plan. It contains existing actions and activities that:

i) where applicable give prior and continuing consideration to Island communities;

ii) provide support by means with no or limited geographical impact (e.g. electronically, verbally, in writing);

iii) are to be undertaken by the Scottish Government, rather than requiring public or supplier input or engagement

It will not affect island communities in a way that is significantly different from its effect on other communities (including other island communities) in Scotland.

Policy Lead: Programme Management Office

Sign Off: Business Management Unit, Scottish Procurement and Property Directorate

Date: 22 April 2024