Ferry disruption must be avoided, says McArthur

Responding to news that the mv Hamnavoe suffered what has been referred to as “a catastrophic engine failure” while crossing the Pentland Firth yesterday, Orkney MSP Liam McArthur is seeking assurances that contingency plans are in place to avoid disruption to the lifeline service.

Mr McArthur said: “It seems clear that the engine problems suffered by the Hamnavoe last night are more serious than had been hoped. This is deeply worrying and there will be concerns about the implications for travel over the coming weeks.

“Any disruption to services must be kept to an absolute minimum and I have written to Serco NorthLink and the transport minister seeking assurances that contingency plans are place.”