MV Clansman returns to service

Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has issued the following update on the
work being carried out to repair the MV Clansman, which suffered a major
technical fault on June 17, 2010.

Phil Preston, Managing Director of Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) said: “The
specialised service engineers provided by engine manufacturer MAK to
undertake the repairs to MV Clansman’s crankshaft, have encountered a
problem while re-assembling the engine which is likely to delay the
vessel’s return to service. It is too early to say how long that delay will
be, but every effort will be made to keep it to a minimum.

”Disruption to services”

“We share everyone’s frustration that we are not able to provide our full
service and are grateful for the patience and understanding of our
customers while we work this through.”

“As previously stated, the current fault is one of the worst ever
experienced by CalMac and due to the complexity of the repair we have
always been reluctant to give a definitive completion date. The most recent
problem highlights the necessity of this caution.

“We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience caused, and know this further
delay will be disappointing for many, but we can assure everyone that we
are doing everything we can to minimise the disruption to services.

“MV Clansman”

“A temporary timetable for the routes affected has been in place for some
time and all indications are that we are getting people to where they want
to be, albeit that some flexibility in their travel plans has been
required.

“Worldwide searches for vessels to provide cover have been unsuccessful and
we therefore have no option than to make the most of the fleet we have at
our disposal. Although only one vessel has been taken out of service, it
serves several island communities and we have had to ensure that no island
is left without a ferry service when making alterations to the timetable.

“Although our resources are stretched, we are continuing to review the
situation on a daily basis and should an opportunity for providing
additional capacity present itself we will certainly consider doing so, but
I must stress that our options are severely limited and will only ever be a
stop gap until the MV Clansman returns to service. We will give further
updates when we have them.”

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