Goodlad welcomes Lib Dem support as SNP conference prepares to discuss lifeline ferry motion
SNP parliamentary candidate Hannah Mary Goodlad has thanked local MSP Beatrice Wishart for demanding a better lifeline ferry service, claiming it supports her own campaign.
It comes a few days ahead of the SNP autumn conference in Aberdeen which is due to discuss a motion by Goodlad that seeks the scrapping of peak pricing for locals and dedicated cabin space for islanders to be set aside.
It also coincides with the closing date of the ongoing Northern Isles Ferry Services (NIFS) consultation on Monday.
On Friday, Wishart submitted a 3,500-word response to the consultation calling for the scrapping of seasonal fares, saving of cabin spaces for islanders and bringing back shared cabins.
Wishart demands better ferry travel for islanders in lengthy letter to government
“Problems with the booking system, a lack of capacity and islanders paying seasonal fares are not new issues,” Wishart said in her submission.
“Over the past few years, I have raised issues with the ferry services with the Scottish Government countless times.
Responding to the MSP, who will not be standing again in the May election, Goodlad said she welcomed the support for her campaign.
She added: “Cross party collaboration is always welcome, and it is the way that we should work in order to support those we represent.”
Goodlad, who was named local SNP candidate earlier this year, said that she had been working on the issue for some time and was hopeful that her motion would be adopted at the SNP conference on Monday.
“If it is approved, then I will continue to work tirelessly to get this implemented as soon as possible,” she said.
The motion calls on the Scottish Government to work with NorthLink Ferries and Transport Scotland to implement the desired changes as these would uphold Scotland’s commitment to island-proofing public services and ensure equity of access to essential transport.
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“It is our lifeline service and, as islanders, we need a far better deal than we have at present in terms of cabin availability and cost,” Goodlad said.
“Because no Shetlander should be priced out of visiting their family, travelling for work, or reaching vital healthcare. And no Shetlander should have to sleep on a cold floor to do it.
“This motion could be the start of many actions needed to make our ‘lifeline service’ worthy of the name.”
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