A review of ferry travel to the islands is taking place as part of the Scottish Government’s route map out of lockdown.
Options for ferry services are being looked at as transport restrictions are gradually eased across Scotland.
Nicola Sturgeon is due tomorrow to provide an update regarding plans to allow island residents to pre-
The First Minister is also to reveal on Thursday if the country can move, at least in part, into the next phase of a four stage routemap out of lockdown.
This may see transport including ferries operating increased services but capacity would still be significantly limited to allow for physical distancing.
Cal Mac suggested more sailings could commence in the first half of next month.
Decisions on when restrictions are lifted and what categories of passengers can travel will be made by the Scottish Government.
A Transport Scotland spokesperson told Hebrides News: “We are acutely aware that supporting island communities to move out of lockdown is a complex issue, not least for ferry operators and services.
“Capacity and logistical issues will be a particular challenge whilst maintaining physical distancing measures, and we are working with operators to understand the impact of this and likely demand for travel.
“We also appreciate that our islands are particularly dependent on many of the sectors worst hit by the impact of the public health measures we had to take to prevent the spread of Covid-
“We will continue to engage with key stakeholders as we consider the options for ferry services through the different phases of the Scottish Government’s route map, and how best to support our island communities come out of lockdown, but progress on all of this has to ensure we reach solutions which will be safe for everyone and, most importantly, prevent the spread of the virus and protect lives.
“At this time, ferry travel continues to be for those who live on our islands with an essential need to travel to or from the mainland, and for essential supplies or business.”
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said island residents should be a priority group as ferry restrictions start to ease.
The council urged “gradual and careful” relaxation of travel to the Hebrides.
It also seeks seeking an easing of inter-
Recently, Hebrides News reported reserving ferries for islanders’ use could continue.
Transport secretary, Michael Matheson, had highlighted tourists may still face ferry restrictions when services starts to scale up due to social distancing rules and to reduce the risk of importing coronavirus into the islands.
He previously said: The reality is that, even when we move our ferry services back to a normal timetable, capacity will be very significantly constrained, particularly on our largest vessels, which will have in the region of 17% to 18% of their normal capacity.
“No matter what happens, there will be significant constraints and we need to make sure that we manage them in a way that reflects the needs of island communities and the people who live in them.”
Scottish Government examines way ahead for ferry services during lockdown easing journey
15 June 2020
