McArthur raises concerns over lack of refit cover for MV Hamnavoe

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur has again voiced concerns about the lack of cover provided for the Stromness-Scrabster ferry route during the dry dock period for MV Hamnavoe, which begins today (Monday 5 January) and will last until 17 January.  

Over recent years, Mr McArthur has consistently raised this issue with Scottish Ministers, highlighting the systematic downgrading of the service through the lack of provision of cover. While a ropax vessel had previously been chartered to provide cover, this was then followed by use of a freight vessel as a replacement. In more recent years, Scottish Ministers have agreed to no replacement cover at all.  

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:  

“The Stromness-Scrabster route is a lifeline service relied on by islanders and local businesses. The Scottish Government’s lack of action to maintain at least some level of provision during the refit period reflects a willingness by successive SNP transport ministers to see that service downgraded.  

“It is hard to believe that Ministers would take a similar approach to west coast routes, where of course the MV Alfred continues to provide long term cover thanks to a lease agreement sanctioned by the government. By contrast, despite repeated warnings, Ministers have once again failed to take steps to protect the Stromness-Scrabster route, ignoring its importance both for islanders and local supply chains.  

“Planned maintenance is essential to the delivery of a reliable ferry service. However, lifeline ferry service contracts, approved by Ministers, should take account of that make provision for cover. Islanders certainly deserve better than to have this lifeline route abandoned over the refit period.”