[Scottish Parliament, 16.07.2024] Highlands and Islands MSP and Convener of the Cross-Party Group on Islands Jamie Halcro Johnston has responded to the Scottish Government's announcement on the procurement of Phase 1 of the Small Vessels Replacement Programme, which promises seven new electric vessels for the small ferry fleet.
Mr Halcro Johnston said:
“Given the crisis facing Scotland’s ferries network, any new vessels are welcome. But this is only a cautious welcome given the lack of detail in this announcement.
“Islanders are well aware of the SNP’s appalling record on procuring complex vessel builds. And with Scotland’s ferries fleet ageing and increasing unreliable, more than the announced 7 replacement vessels are needed and we need to know on which routes these vessels are likely to run.
“The Transport Secretary must also be transparent on timelines and costs for the shoreside work which can often be as costly and complicated as the vessels themselves, and could lead to disruption to existing services as work is undertaken.
“The SNP's mismanagement of vessel procurement is well known, and while this announcement may be a small step in the right direction, promises on new boats have been made and broken before.
“Island communities, so often let down by Scottish Government ministers, will reserve judgement until these ferries are actually delivered and operational”.
ENDS
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