Assurances sought over MV Isle of Lewis

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus Brendan MacNeil and local Councillor Donald Manford have maintained regular contact with CalMac about the ongoing disruption to the MV Isle of Lewis which serves the Oban to Castlebay route.

Commenting Angus MacNeil said:

“The arrival of the MV Isle of Lewis and the improved timetable was welcomed by the local community in Barra.

“Whilst we do appreciate that faults will happen, it is important that they are resolved quickly, having spoken to CalMac I know that they are doing their level best and working hard on getting the necessary repairs done.

“CalMac tell me that they hope to have the MV Isle of Lewis back in service this weekend whilst they continue to pursue a long term solution to ensure future reliability.”

Cllr Donald Manford added:

“The enormous service improvement brought about by the arrival of the MV Isle of Lewis in Castlebay was hugely welcomed; the first ever daily direct sailings with the ferry based on the island.

“It is disappointing that so soon after its introduction a technical fault has removed it from service.  While, we accept that faults are sometimes inevitable this will be the third season in succession that breakdowns have seriously hampered the island’s ferry.

“In looking forward to the vessel’s imminent return I applaud the hard work of everyone involved and sincerely hope we can have a sustained period of trouble free sailing.”

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