Minister’s vow in row over ferry firm tendering

TRANSPORT minister Derek Mackay has insisted the westcoast ferry service is not being privatised and accused his political opponents of creating a toxic atmosphere as tense tendering discussions continue over the lifeline services.

The RMT union has threatened to strike over the tendering process for the Clyde and Hebrides ferry services which it says has left jobs, pensions and conditions “hanging by a thread”.

Publicly-owned CalMac Ferries Ltd and private firm Serco Caledonian Ferries Ltd are bidding for a new contract for the services, which are operated by CalMac.

Mr Mackay was questioned on the ongoing dispute during an exchange at Holyrood yesterday after RMT voted by more than 90 per cent for strikes and action short of strikes if they do not receive adequate assurances on jobs, conditions and pensions.

“Regardless of the ownership status of the successful bidder, these ferry services aren’t being privatised,” Mr Mackay said.

“What is being tendered is a public-service contract to operate lifeline services on behalf of Scottish ministers.

“The operator would have to apply for a service specification defined by Scottish ministers and, as now, be subject to stringent contract management conditions.

“So, this isn’t privatisation as some elements of the Labour Party say, and much to t he regret of t he Conservatives.”

Labour MSP Neil Findlay said: “So, let me get this right – a service currently run by the public sector may be run by the private sector and that’s not privatisation?

“Is it any wonder that the RMT and their members have no confidence?”