MSP pushes government again on two-month cut in NorthLink services

Isles MSP Tavish Scott is again asking the Scottish government to rethink its decision to leave Shetland with just one ferry during an extended dry dock period for the NorthLink ships next year.

Mr Scott has written once more to transport minister Keith Brown urging him to recognise the economic impact the situation will have on the isles.

“Given Shetland exports, weather disruption, the difficulties of Aberdeen harbour in easterly winter weather and Mr Brown’s confirmation of two important facts; that there will be only one passenger ship during the refit period and that the Scottish government has received over £7 million in clawback payments, I feel funding should be provided to retain a full service.

“I think we should also acknowledge that the government found extra resources to extend the Road Equivalent Tariff on the west coast while announcing they will be increasing our fares by 6.5 per cent from April next year – it’s time Shetland got some positive travel news.”