Following Topical Questions to the Transport Minister at which he questioned Kevin Stewart MSP over the impact of the MV Pentalina incident on Orkney and the potential for compensation, Highlands and Islands MSP and Convenor of the Scottish Parliament's Cross Party Group on Islands, Jamie Halcro Johnston MSP said:
“In response to my questions, the Minister seemed to suggest that, while there is no recall option within the agreement between Pentland Ferries and CalMac, the MV Alfred could still be used to cover for the Pentalina if any repairs were prolonged. I will be writing to Kevin Stewart to seek further clarification on that.
“If that is not the case, and if the Pentalina remains unavailable, the Scottish Government must then also consider how our islands will be compensated for the loss of service.
“The peak season is fast approaching, and while I’m sure Northlink will step up to help where possible, there is concern that Orkney could face our busiest time of the year – crucial for our tourism sector and for local folk taking their own holidays - with a reduced capacity across the Pentland Firth.
“It’s time for the Scottish Government to take responsibility for their disastrous mismanagement of west coast ferries now impacting us here in Orkney, and to give consideration to how local residents, businesses and organisations affected will be compensated”.
