Ministerial statement on NorthLink strikes expected today

Last week, Orkney MSP Liam McArthur called on the Scottish Government to update Parliament on its efforts to avert strike action on the lifeline routes serving Orkney and Shetland.

Responding to the news that Ministers have agreed to make a statement to MSPs today, Thursday, Mr McArthur said: “There is growing anxiety in Orkney and Shetland about the impact that strike action would have on both communities.

“The dispute itself arises from the contract specified, negotiated, and agreed by the Scottish Government earlier this year, therefore it is absolutely right that the Minister should update Parliament on the steps he has been taking to avert this unnecessary and damaging industrial action.

“My constituents will be looking for answers.  More than that, they will be looking for confirmation that the Minister is straining every sinew to avoid disruption to these lifeline ferry services over Christmas”