Wait for spare parts means no Fair Isle ferry service until early November
FAIR Isle will be without a ferry service until early November after the Good Shepherd IV broke down last Sunday, the council has confirmed.
This follows an inspection on a local slipway today (Friday).
Following inquiries by Shetland News, a spokesperson for Shetland Islands Council said this afternoon that spare part had been ordered.
“The push-pull rod which controls the propeller pitch is broken, and a replacement has been ordered from Norway,” the council said. “We are also awaiting parts for the auxiliary engine.
“Depending on the delivery times, and customs clearance, we expect the vessel to be out of service for the next ten days or so, into early November.”
There are no plans for a replacement ferry during this period, however, a BK Marine barge has been to Fair Isle with materials for the pier construction works today and collected provision from the store at Grutness.
It is understood that they will be doing the same again next week if there is no replacement ferry.
The council spokesperson said: “Normal arrangements and discussions with the community will take place for any additional freight flights, if necessary.”
It comes amid ongoing difficulties on the Whalsay route this week, resulting in a single vessel service provided by the Linga today.
