The formal award, announced following the conclusion of due diligence processes, provides a degree of certainty for island communities that rely on lifeline ferry services across the west coast. However, the Comhairle has underlined that this certainty must now be matched by improved delivery and meaningful service enhancements.

Following the award of the contract Cllr Uisdean Robertson, Chair of the Comhairle’s Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, has highlighted priorities that CalMac must address to provide an improved ferry service to communities in the Western Isles.

Little Minch (Uig, Lochmaddy and Tarbert)

Speaking on the Little Minch service Cllr Robertson said: 

“CalMac must deliver the long-standing and well-evidenced community ask for three daily return sailings on the Little Minch—using the two new vessels soon to be introduced—will be delivered and maintained, including in winter. Returning to the model of shared vessel operation introduced in 1964 will be a backward step by anyone’s measure even in our quieter winter months. Calmac will have the vessels at their disposal so should our communities receive a lesser service the operator will rightly be judged by our communities.”

Sound of Barra and Sound of Harris Services

Speaking on the Sound of Barra and Sound of Harris services Cllr Robertson said: 

"CalMac must finally act on long-ignored opportunities to improve the Sound of Barra and Sound of Harris services. The Comhairle, HIE and HITRANS have set out a strong economic case for these improvements that has too long been ignored."

Lochboisdale to Mallaig/ Oban

Speaking on the Lochboisdale to Mallaig/ Oban service Cllr Robertson said: 

“In South Uist, the need is acute: a stable, long-term solution for the Lochboisdale route is essential, and this must be a top priority.”

Speaking on the award of the contract Cllr Uisdean Robertson, said: 

“While we acknowledge that CalMac cannot simply magic up new vessels, there are real tests ahead for this contract. Our communities will be watching closely, and the new contract must mark a genuine shift in delivery and accountability. It is the Comhairle’s view that CalMac must now act to deliver key improvements in the highlighted 3 priority areas within the Western Isles ferry network. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar remains committed to working with CalMac and Transport Scotland to ensure the new CHFS3 contract delivers tangible improvements in reliability, capacity, and community confidence.”