Proposals from Reform UK to scrap the right of migrants to settle in the UK after five years would “hollow out” communities across the Highlands, according to an Inverness councillor.
Dr Michael Gregson, a Highland councillor, said the controversial immigration policy would cause deep damage to key public services and Highland society as a whole.
“Our workforce is especially vulnerable,” said councillor Gregson.
“To put a target on the backs of people who’ve made a life here, some for decades is both foolish and immoral.”
Reform UK has proposed abolishing the pathway to permanent settlement for migrants, including those who have lived and worked in the UK for years.
Critics say it risks forcing out people already contributing to local economies, services, and communities.
Councillor Gregson said the impact on NHS Highland, adult social care, hospitality and other local industries would be “devastating”.
“Many of the people this would affect are part of the fabric of our communities paying taxes, raising families, supporting services,” he said.
“We can’t afford to lose them.”
Around 41% of Highland businesses employ EU nationals, according to local figures.
At least a quarter of NHS Scotland’s workforce is made up of staff from minority ethnic backgrounds, with many from South Asia.
Social care services also rely on staff recruited from abroad.
Councillor Gregson pointed to a mounting healthcare crisis in Scotland, saying efforts should be focused on recruitment and retention, not exclusion.
“Right now, 1 in 6 people are stuck on an NHS waiting list,” he said.
“Children are waiting years for mental health support.
“We have 3,200 unfilled nursing and midwifery roles in Scotland.
“These are the real priorities.”
The Highlands have welcomed people from Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine and many other places over the years, he added, and migration has brought long-term benefits to the region.
“Reform’s plans are not just cruel, they’re dangerous.
“This kind of rhetoric risks poisoning our communities.
“If implemented, it would hollow out Highland society at the very time we need skilled workers most.”
