Puzzling claim

Jack Barclay is absolutely correct when he queries why Bressay should be the only island to receive a freeze on their ferry fares (“A typical Lerwick view“, SN 24/4/2017).

I find Mr Fraser’s claim that it is only Bressay who is dependent on its ferry to access vital services and amenities in Lerwick rather puzzling (“Ferry fares freeze“. SN 20/4/2017)

Keeping in mind that those using the Bressay ferry can travel as foot passengers and immediately arrive in Lerwick, those in Unst, Yell, Fetlar, Whalsay and Skerries (among other islands) equally depend on the ferry for access to vital services, and have the journey from their retrospective ferry terminals on top of this.

I agree with Mr Fraser’s sentiment of a freeze in ferry fares as a short-term fix, however, this proposal must be made right across Shetland’s inter-island ferry network, not just on one route.

Taking into consideration the significant contribution the islands make towards the Shetland economy, we must look at long-term solutions to make island life sustainable, not just for the islands themselves, but for the benefit of Shetland overall.

Ryan Thomson
Shetland Islands Council candidate for the North Isles ward