The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
New flights call amid ferry crisis
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has suggested that fed-up islanders should turn to air travel amid the ongoing disruption to ferry services.
The Scottish Government agency is proposing that flight prices be slashed and services increased to mitigate disruption to islanders.
Officials say the “priority” move could relieve the strain on commuters who are left continually facing disturbance to local ferry crossings.
Their proposals come just days after Mull and Iona Ferry Committee (MIFC) announced it is looking into the possibility of taking its routes into community ownership.
HIE has supported the venture by financing the feasibility study with a grant of £15,000.
The study has been commissioned amid concerns for CalMac’s ageing fleet and the level of disruption facing islanders on a regular basis.
The committee says it wants consultants to look at how smaller, more fuel-efficient vessels could improve the service.
The ferry group ultimately wants a “Norwegian-style” community takeover of ferry services from CalMac.
HIE bosses say the move would help ensure a collective effort in supporting Scotland’s economic growth.
“Such a commitment would open up economic and social opportunities for communities that currently have poor connectivity to Scotland’s main cities, helping ensure that all parts of Scotland are able to contribute to economic growth in Scotland,” the enterprise agency said.
HIE has also suggested improving access to and from islands in the longer term by providing more bridges or tunnels between the mainland and island communities.
The suggestions come as ferry operator CalMac battle to keep its ageing fleet of vessels afloat.
Its lifeline vessels MV Glen Sannox and Hull 802 – which are now five years overdue – remain marooned at Ferguson Marine shipyard, with costs soaring from £97m to nearly £340m.
Officials from HIE will meet members of the Scottish Parliament’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee to discuss matters today.
A spokesperson for HIE said: “Road and rail infrastructure, ferries and air services all provide vital connections that underpin local economies and help maintain population.”