The recent grounding of a cargo ship has sparked fresh calls for an emergency coastguard tug to be stationed in the Minch.
The specialist papercarrier vessel, MV Lysblink Seaways, ran into difficulties near Kilchoan, in the Sound of Mull.
An anti-
The ship planned to steam through the Minch on route to Norway.
Isles MP Angus MacNeil said: “Once again we have seen how vulnerable we are without an emergency tug vessel.
“Is the West Coast of Scotland, the most westerly point of Britain, simply too far away from Westminster to be a priority?
“The lack of an emergency tug vessel meant there was no quick response. We had a lucky escape this time because of the cargo on board the ship, but next time it could be much more serious.
“Despite the sophisticated navigation equipment on board ships, accidents will happen and an emergency towing vessel is an insurance policy. We need to protect the environment and our fishing industry.
Comhairle leader, Angus Campbell, said: “This is another occasion when, thankfully, there were no injuries but which could have been a vastly different story.
The removal of the emergency towing vessel from Western waters has increased the risk to mariners and to the environment. We call on the UK Government to reassess and find a long term solution to this crucial issue.”
Labour candidate Alastair Morrison said: “There was a significant delay after the ship grounding before the only available tug arrived in the area due to the distance it had to travel. We once had a tug, based in Stornoway, which allowed a more immediate response.
“That is the service which must be reinstated. Does there have to be a serious incident before the government listen to the people and accept we need a dedicated tug in the Minch waters?"
Politicians call for emergency tug to be based in Stornoway
23 February 2015