PRESS RELEASE

May 28th, 2010

MSP makes case for ferry service

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil has made the case for a town-to-town vehicle passenger ferry service during a meeting with the Transport Minister.

Tenders for the new Gourock-Dunoon ferry service are due in the next few weeks before the six-year contract is awarded next June (2011).

The MSP fears that the strict tendering process may result in a passenger-only service or a loss of jobs in the area.

This week, he met with Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson to outline his concerns and gain a commitment that the Scottish Government is still pursuing this type of service.

Factors discussed were service frequency, journey times, staffing, vessel sizes and increased road traffic – all of which could be subject to change with the awarding of a new contract.

The MSP said: "This has become a complex process with competing interests that has to be carried our fairly and transparently.

"But it is important for Gourock that we retain a vehicle passenger service from the town centre to Dunoon.

"I am pleased that the minister re-affirmed his commitment to this type of service and I look forward to receiving further updates from him as this situation develops."

ENDS