McArthur responds to Scottish Government pledge of £3 million in funding to replace Orkney’s internal ferry fleet

In response to the announcement made by the Scottish Government on 9 October that Orkney Islands Council has secured £3 million in government funding to replace Orkney’s internal ferry fleet, Liam McArthur has commented:  

"I welcome this announcement and hope that it will allow progress to be made in the procurement of much needed new vessels for our internal ferry routes. These are lifeline services being operated by vessels that are no longer fit for purpose so urgency is required. 

“There were understandable concerns last year when the ferries taskforce failed to meet for more than six months. It is encouraging, however, to see a more collaborative approach by the Scottish Government over recent months. That momentum must be maintained and new ferries ordered as soon as possible."