Call for later ferry

An island councillor has called on Cal Mac to provide a summer late evening ferry on the inter-island routes.

Cllr Donnie Steele believes such a service would be popular and has written to the shipping firm to consider the issue.

Mr Steele says it would help the local economy by encouraging more inter-island trade, particularly with cheaper RET fares being introduced on Sound of Barra and Sound of Harris routes.

Tourists and locals would also benefit from having more convenient timetables, he said.

Mr Steele said: "Amongst others to benefit would be the Uist and Barra football league, who play between the islands midweek and weekends.

Call for later summer-time ferry

22 October 2015

He suggests a 8.15pm departure from Ardmhor and returning from Eriskay at 9.10pm may be suitable timings.

He added: "This service would accommodate and compliment the league and would provide a safer mode of travel, taking away the unnecessary risks of travelling on ribs etc to cross the sound.

"The service would also provide more of an opportunity for supporters to watch their teams. "

He added: "It would also make a substantial contribution to the social, cultural and economic well-being of the Islands.

"I believe shore based crews should be able to provide this service. To comply with the working directive Cal Mac would increase crews and work a shift pattern, thus providing more jobs and opportunities in our fragile remote communities."

Cal Mac said the councillor's suggestion would be discussed at a Ferry User Group meeting next week.