McArthur welcomes progress on internal ferry procurement

Liam McArthur, Orkney’s MSP has welcomed news that Orkney Islands Council has today agreed the design for three new internal ferries today and moved towards tender.   

Additional funding in the 25/26 budget for internal ferry procurement and inter-island connectivity was secured through negotiation by the Scottish Liberal Democrats last year.   

Commenting on the news, Mr McArthur said:   

“I welcome the further progress Orkney Islands Council has made towards the long overdue procurement of new internal ferries. It has long been clear that the current fleet is no longer fit for purpose and has struggled for years to meet the needs of the communities it serves. 

“I was pleased Scottish Liberal Democrats were able to negotiate additional funding from the Scottish Government during the 2025/26 budget process to enable progress on procurement. Looking ahead, I hope Ministers will again recognise their responsibility to support the replacement of these lifeline vessels when the Finance Secretary brings forward the budget early in the new year. 

“While the delays affecting this year’s budget process are far from ideal, Orkney Islands Council and islanders need clear reassurance that Ministers remain committed to ferry replacement in Orkney—just as they have delivered in other parts of the country.”