Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 27 April 2000 For Use: Immediately

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has welcomed the commitment to the future security of Highlands and Islands Ferry Services in the announcement today by the Transport Minister that current arrangements have to be amended in the light of EU regulations.

Cllr. Norman A. Macdonald, Chairman of Transportation, said:

"Given the importance of these lifeline ferry services I am pleased that there is a clear commitment from the government that the future of Highlands and Islands ferry services is secured. The Comhairle recognises that the government is obliged to consider competition under European Union requirements.

Obviously the Comhairle will play a full part in the consultation exercise and we will want detailed assurances on many issues, including the Public Service Obligation on Western Isles routes and the structuring and packaging of those routes which is going to be a key factor in this whole process."

Mr. Murdo Murray, Director of Technical Services, said:

"The Western Isles would certainly want to ensure that the packaging of the services takes into account factors such as the geography, the size of vessels and also the structuring and scope of contracts. These are the sort of issues that we will get down to discussing in detail during the consultation process."

The Vice-Convener of the Comhairle, Mr. Roddy Murray, said:

"The Transport Minister's commitments on protecting levels of fares and standards of service are to be welcomed. The Minister has a clear understanding of the importance of these services, particularly to communities such as ourselves. The fragility of our economy is well known and I am pleased that the Minister has stressed that the framework of tendering will be designed to foster the economic and social wellbeing of Highlands and Islands communities."

Convener Alex MacDonald commented:

"The Comhairle will ensure that the interests of the people of the Western Isles are to the fore during the consultations on this matter which is vital for the future of the islands."

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer