Politics / Election: the future of the lifeline ferry service
WITH just ten days until voters hit the polling booths to elect Shetland’s next MSP, Shetland News has been conducting interviews with the four constituency candidates – as well as some of the list candidates – on the most pressing issues facing the islands.
The first in a week-long series of video features focuses on the North Boats lifeline ferry contract between Shetland, Orkney and the Scottish mainland, which is up for renewal in 2018.
Back in 2012 the SNP government controversially handed the six-year, £240 million contract to multinational service provider Serco.
It has also faced criticism for failing to take steps to bring ferry fares down in the Northern Isles in a similar way to reductions on west coast routes.
Lengthy discussions have taken place between the islands councils, transport bodies ZetTrans and HiTrans and Transport Scotland to ensure the islands have greater input into what the service will look like beyond 2018.
We asked each of the four constituency candidates – and the Scottish Greens’ list candidate John Finnie – what they would like to see feature in the specification for the new contract when it eventually goes out to tender.
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.
