Ariane Burgess, Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands, addressed the Scottish Parliament in response to the Cabinet Secretary’s statement on the Clyde and Hebrides Ferries.
Highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by island communities, Ms Burgess stressed the critical need for local involvement in the proposed Calmac Enhancement and Change Plan.
“I am grateful to the cabinet secretary for her statement,” said Ms Burgess.
“It’s good to hear progress being made across the CalMac network.
“As a Highlands and Islands MSP, I know that the performance and future of our ferries and ports are a source of deep concern and frustration.
“Beyond unavoidable tidal and weather-related issues, 10 ferry routes in my region are today on restricted timetables or cancelled altogether.
“While I welcome the proposal for six local area manager posts in the Calmac Enhancement and Change Plan, and news that there are some local people already in place, can the Minister outline what has been put in place to ensure that island communities will always be embedded in the decision-making of their ferries services?”
The Government statement acknowledged extended periods with key vessels out of service over the summer and highlighted plans for seven new fully electric small vessels, a low-carbon rural transport investment Ms Burgess and the Scottish Greens have long called for.
Speaking after the session, Ms Burgess said:
“The key learning both Government and CalMac should take from their ongoing ferries failings is the importance of local knowledge and community involvement in managing and improving services.
“Too often the voice of local communities has been ignored.
“New, more locally accountable structures are welcome but only by having managers truly embedded in island communities can the Scottish Government fully address the unique needs and challenges of island residents.”
