McArthur questions Scottish Government on peak ferry fares

Orkney’s MSP, Liam McArthur is pressing the Scottish Government to remove ‘peak’ ferry fares on publicly-funded routes, including the Northern Isles Ferry Service, following the decision earlier this year to remove ‘peak fares’ on all train services.

Mr McArthur has lodged questions in parliament asking what assessment Ministers have given to such a proposal.

Commenting on this issue, Mr McArthur said:

“Earlier this year, the Scottish Government scrapped peak rail fares on train services across Scotland. Ministers justified the move on the basis of making public transport more accessible and affordable.

“I see no reason why the same logic should not be applied to the ferry services funded by the Scottish Government. As islanders know only too well, travelling during the ‘peak’ months of the year can be costly, making these lifeline services less accessible to many people.

“Not surprisingly, the removal of peak rails fares has proved popular with the travelling public. Having accepted the principle, Ministers must now apply the same approach to public-funded ferry services. To do otherwise, would be unfair and discriminate against the needs of islanders.”