News / ADS cuts start to bite, Scott says
ISLANDERS are flying less due to the impact of the changes to the Air Discount Scheme, according to Shetland MSP Tavish Scott.
New figures submitted by Loganair to the Scottish government show for July to October a 15 per cent drop in the number of Shetlanders flying south.
These figures mean a loss of 1,500 passengers to Loganair.
Mr Scott and Orkney MSP Liam McArthur are due to meet with transport minister Keith Brown on Wednesday to discuss the controversial withdrawal of ADS to businesses and public service organisations.
Mr Scott said: “This dramatic fall in passengers using the ADS show the cost to the islands of these Scottish government cuts. Islanders are travelling less or having to pay full fare which shows what a backward step cuts in ADS are for Shetland.
“I hope that the Scottish government will listen to the evidence that Liam McArthur and I have collected in the northern isles, but also to these Loganair figures.
“It’s time Shetland got some good transport news from this government rather than being battered with higher fares in the air and at sea and cuts to essential lifeline services.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
