Jura ferry receives start date after funding fears
While Jura’s passenger ferry has been saved for another year thanks to a campaign by islanders, prices are set to rise due to a “decreased subsidy and increased costs”.
Fear were growing that the “vital” seasonal service between Craighouse and Tayvallich was under threat, just weeks before it was due to start.
Dougie McFadzean, SNP councillor for Kintyre and the Islands, said he had 15 emails from “Jura residents who were worried that the subsidy from Argyll and Bute Council was going to be pulled, which would probably have meant the end of the service”.
Jura Development Trust (JDT), in an appeal titled Jura Passenger Ferry - We need your help, said: “Argyll and Bute Council will still not confirm their 20 per cent contribution for the Jura passenger ferry for this year.
“After 13 successful years, Transport Scotland are still happy to fund their 80 per cent, but will only do this if there is ongoing commitment from the council.
“We’re really pushing hard to get their commitment ASAP we know people need to plan (including us).”
Following a campaign by islanders to save the service, Argyll and Bute Council said last week: “Councils increasingly have to focus funding on services we have a duty to deliver, after years of multi-million pound cuts to budgets. We do not have a duty to fund the Jura passenger ferry.
“However, we remain keen to support our communities’ wishes as much as we can and are pleased to confirm that we can again provide a 20 per cent contribution to the costs of the ferry.”
“Excellent,” reacted one islander: “Thanks to all those involved in making sure the service is continuing. Great job.”
“Let’s hope the funding does actually work out,” remarked another, “because the CalMac is fully booked till well into April.”
Afterwards, the JDT cautioned: “The small print is that whilst we have an agreement on the table, they were unable to agree to all the funding required, as well as there being new caveats and conditions attached. There will be further updates to follow for the future of the service.”
It then confirmed on Monday: “JDT are pleased that we are able to continue to support the running of the Jura Passenger Ferry for the 2023 season.
“Following extensive discussions, Transport Scotland and Argyll and Bute Council have agreed to subsidise the ferry by £68,000 – of this £13,600 will come from Argyll and Bute and £54,400 from Transport Scotland.
“Whilst we are grateful for the confirmation of their commitment for this season, this subsidy is a reduction on the amount given last year and imposes additional reporting requirements on both the JDT and the operator.
“Discussions are still ongoing regarding the future of this vital service beyond this season. We are grateful for the numerous emails and messages of support for the ferry service, underlining its importance to individuals and businesses alike. Unfortunately, the reduction in subsidy and increased costs will result in an increase in fare prices.”
The Jura Passenger Ferry service starts on Wednesday March 29.