Ferry company advises on fodder shipments

Orkney Ferries is issuing advice to farmers and hauliers planning to ship hay and straw to the North and South Isles.

The company has plans in place for the bulk shipment of animal forage and fodder, if required by farmers, as a result of the problems unseasonal weather conditions have created.

Orkney Ferries manager Fraser Murray said: “In order to make shipments of this kind as affordable as possible, we will charge the most preferential tariff rate.

“We have been in contact with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and they have informed us that under the regulations governing our vessels, loads of hay and straw must be fully covered and properly secured.

“Consignments of this kind are classified as Dangerous Goods. When farmers and hauliers are making a booking with us, they need to let us know they will be carrying hay or straw.

“They’ll also need to have the necessary paperwork – a Dangerous Goods Declaration – which will be checked by the loading officer of the vessel they’re using.”

For further information, contact Orkney Ferries on 872044.