Politics / SNP candidate proposes local cabin quota for NorthLink ferries
A “LOCAL quota” could be introduced to secure cabin access for islanders on NorthLink ferries under a motion being brought forward by SNP candidate Hannah Mary Goodlad.
Goodlad will take the motion to this year’s annual SNP conference in Aberdeen in October.
She will call on the Scottish Government to work with both NorthLink and Transport Scotland to reserve a “local quota” of cabins and vehicle spaces for Shetland residents aboard the ferries.
This would be done in the summer season, between May and September, and would be verified via NorthLink’s existing islander discount scheme.
Goodlad said Shetland’s record tourism, with almost 100,000 visitors in 2024, was a huge boost to the local economy – but was putting lifeline transport links under real strain.
“For Shetlanders, the overnight ferry isn’t a leisure cruise, it’s a 14-hour essential connection to reach hospital appointments, study, work, or visit family,” she said.
“Too often in peak season, locals can’t get a cabin when they need one. Our islander discount is meaningless if there’s no space.
“My principle is simple: lifeline services must meet the needs of the communities they are designed to serve.
“Tourists are very welcome, but not at the expense of Shetlanders’ ability to travel for essential reasons.”
Goodlad added: “This is about fairness, island-proofing our transport, and protecting our right to move reliably.”
The SNP annual conference is held between 11 and 13 October.
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