Macneil urges Cal-Mac to put options on table for Uist and Barra

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus MacNeil has called on Caledonian MacBrayne to present options available in an effort to ease the backlog of ferry traffic in Uist and Barra, following the breakdown of the MV Clansman.

Angus MacNeil said:

“Technical issues surrounding the MV Clansman has plunged Uist and Barra into travel chaos.  The fishing and tourism industry are losing money because of these technical issues and the subsequent amended timetables.

“Alleviate the backlog”.

“There is never a good time for disruptions to ferry timetables but this has happened at the worst possible time.  I have written to Caledonian MacBrayne urging them to put options on the table, which will help ease the backlog and restore the carrying capacity to Uist and Barra.

“Caledonian MacBrayne has told me that they are on schedule to have the Clansman back in operation on the weekend of 23 July.  Together with Councillor Donald Manford and following representation from Island businesses, I have asked Caledonian MacBrayne to look at the possibility of using Mallaig as a Port during the period of this disruption; the Loch Nevis could be used in addition to the current timetable with overnight sailings and extra crew.  I have also asked Caledonian MacBrayne if they have considered chartering another vessel to help alleviate the backlog”.

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