Bakkafrost Scotland has stepped in to restore navigational lights at Ardminish Bay pontoon after a fault disrupted ferry services to and from the Isle of Gigha.
The lights failed earlier this month, prompting Caledonian MacBrayne to reduce sailings over safety concerns as vessels were unable to guide safely in the dark.
The ferry link is a vital connection for islanders, supporting travel to work, school and essential services on the mainland.
The Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust sought financial support to replace the lights and assistance with safely installing the new equipment.
Bakkafrost Scotland responded by purchasing replacement lighting and arranging for a crew to carry out the installation once weather conditions allowed.
Craig Johnstone, site manager on Gigha, said the issue had immediate consequences for the island community.
“We are very much part of island life here and helping out in this way benefits all of us.
“The navigational lights had failed and the ferry service is unable to run in the dark, as it is obviously not safe if they are unable to guide the vessel in.
“The ferry service is critical to Gigha and having a reduced service was very disruptive.
“It prevented people being able to get to work and children getting to school on the mainland.
“We were asked to help out and, of course, we were more than happy to do what we could.
“We bought the new lights and, once the weather allowed, I travelled out with a colleague to install them.
“Once we had successfully tested them, we made the ferry operator aware.”
The company has also pledged further support to the island’s emergency planning group.
Bakkafrost Scotland has committed to helping transport emergency services workers to and from Gigha when required using its fleet of boats and to providing additional safety equipment.
Craig Johnstone said the commitment reflected the realities of island life.
“There is not always sufficient transport available for the emergency services workers, so we have made a commitment to help out with our own fleet of boats when we can.
“In addition, we have helped the emergency planning group buy equipment like high visibility clothing and radios, as well as assist with storage facilities.
“It is about a 30 minute trip from Gigha to the mainland and there is no transport alternative here, so it is important we do what we can to assist.
“Doing so reflects Bakkafrost Scotland’s commitment to help the communities where we live and work.”
With the lights restored, the ferry service is now able to operate as normal, bringing relief to a small island community that depends on every crossing.
