McInnes: protect and develop Scottish ferries

11.06.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 14th May 2008

Liberal Democrat Transport spokesperson Alison McInnes has urged the Scottish Government to protect and develop lifeline ferry services to the Scottish islands.

Speaking during a meeting of the Scottish Parliament's Transport Committee, Mrs McInnes pointed out that the services are essential to protecting and developing island life, making it more sustainable. The Committee is conducting an inquiry into ferry services in Scotland.

Commenting after the Committee meeting, Mrs McInnes said:

"Ferry services protect and develop island life. Scotland needs ferry services that can respond to changes in demand and provide quick and frequent links between the islands and the mainland.

"It's critical that this doesn't drop below the radar as the Committee takes evidence for its report into ferry services. Although it is important to debate the technicalities of the tender, this should not come at the expense of debating the need for more investment and innovation in our ferry services."