Industrial action results in ferry cancellations

Orkney Islands Council is reporting that, due to industrial action, a crewing situation has resulted in the MV Shapinsay being unable to operate after the final sailing from Kirkwall this evening, Wednesday.

Orkney Ferries says it is working hard to find a solution so that a vessel can operate on the Shapinsay to Kirkwall route as soon as possible.

Orkney Ferries crews, represented by three unions, are currently taking action short of a strike.

A meeting on February 28 has been agreed with the unions to discuss their pay claim following the award by the Scottish Government of £5.5 million in additional funding for Orkney’s internal ferry service.

OIC has said, in light of the additional funding, it is hoped there will be a positive outcome to the meeting.