Press Release, 30th Jan 2013

Ferry Service Action Call

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil has called on Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) to take tough action over Clydelink’s handling of the Gourock to Kilcreggan ferry service.

A Freedom of Information request, lodged by Kilcreggan resident Harry Cathcart, has found that Clydelink, who operate the passenger service on behalf of SPT, has been fined over £2,500 for late or missed sailings on the route since taking over the tender in April 2012.

SPT has also issued Clydelink with eight penalty points following an inspection by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency which identified several failings with the day-to-day running of the service. These included discrepancies in the accreditation of the ferry’s skipper.

Passengers have contacted Duncan McNeil on numerous occasions regarding the reliability of the service.

Earlier this week some passengers reported that they were unable to enter the cabin of the Island Princess’ replacement vessel, the Cailin Oir. As a result some passengers were forced to travel the route on the outer deck in freezing conditions.

Duncan McNeil said:

“This latest development reinforces the concerns of passengers that Clydelink is simply not up to the job of running the Gorouck to Kilcreggan ferry service”

“When Clydelink took over the service, passengers were promised a quick and reliable service but time and again they have failed to deliver”

“This is simply not on. SPT must take tough action against Clydelink to ensure that passengers receive the service they deserve”

“I will be writing to the Chief Executive of SPT to get assurances that they will bring an end to this on-going saga and secure a reliable ferry service for passengers”