CMAL aware of need to invest
Sir,
J Patrick Maclean’s claim that the ‘Scottish
Government throws unlimited amounts of money at CMAL’ is fanciful, Letters, Arran
Banner, October 16.
CMAL must apply for its funding from the Scottish Government every year. Bids are based on informed projections for work to be delivered during the financial year. Vessel and harbour projects are prioritised according to need. Priorities are made across the public sector and we understand transport needs are balanced against that of education, health, justice.
I am aware of the need to invest in ferry and harbour infrastructure and to reduce the average age of our vessel fleet. No one at CMAL needs to be reminded. Our people are professionally qualified and experienced maritime engineers, naval architects, shipbuilders. We understand the need for ongoing investment and innovation to protect, enhance and upgrade infrastructure. Our current three-year plan has ambitious plans to address vessel and harbour improvements. Plans that are, of course, dependent on funding.
All options for vessel type will be considered. It is important for communities to understand that options are based on multiple variable factors: passenger and freight demand now and future projections, comfort, safety, reliability, sustainability, efficiency, cost – to name a few. An important factor in all vessel choice for the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Service is compatibility with specific routes, as well as flexibility to meet vessel redeployment needs across the network. CMAL has a critical part to play in carbon emission reductions and green technology must be integrated with vessel design to help address the climate emergency. CalMac and Transport Scotland have operational and policy requirements too.
Decisions are influenced and driven by these various factors and vessel choice is not decided by CMAL alone. The decision to commission two 102-metre dual fuel vessels for the Arran and Skye triangle routes was made jointly based on the requirements specified at the time. Once delivered, we’re confident they will provide an effective service.
Lifeline ferry services are critical. People are, rightly, passionate and vocal about current and future infrastructure. Opinions are always welcome, but it is important to understand the myriad of considerations that drive and influence decisions.
Yours,
Kevin Hobbs,
Chief Executive,
Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), Port Glasgow.