Ferry tendering process

The first stage of the tender process for west coast ferry services was "fair, open and transparent," according to an independent monitoring panel.

Cal Mac Ferries and Serco are going head-to-head for a £1 billion subsidy to run the ferry routes for the Western Isles and west coast for eight years from autumn 2016.

The panel was set up to provide assurance neither rival was discriminated against.

It has held two meetings and further meetings are scheduled to review the invitation to tender document and the final tender submissions.

Representatives from Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar, Scottish Tourism Alliance, Ullapool Harbour Trust, Scottish Trades Union Congress and various west coast island groups are scrutinising the process.

Minister for Transport and Islands Derek Mackay said: “From the outset, we have pledged to make this a fair, open and transparent procurement process."

He added: “I once again underline that, no matter the outcome of the procurement process, Scottish Ministers will retain control of all of important issues, such as fares and timetables, through the public service contract.

"Vessels and port infrastructure will also remain publicly owned as they are now. We remain focused on ensuring a fair and open competition that leads to getting the very best deal for all of the communities of the Clyde and Hebrides."

Ferry tendering process is "fair and transparent"

3 November 2015