Serco NorthLink’s full subsidy during refit is ‘absurd’ – McArthur

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has reacted with anger to the news that Serco NorthLink will continue to claim the full subsidy for operating the Stromness-Scrabster ferry route while the mv Hamnavoe undergoes maintenance in January.

Commenting after the transport minister confirmed the plans, Mr McArthur said: “When Serco NorthLink announced recently that a freight vessel would be used to operate the Stromness-Scrabster route while the mv Hamnavoe is undergoing maintenance next month, most people in Orkney assumed the subsidy paid to the company would be reduced.

“The transport minister, Keith Brown has now confirmed, however, that this arrangement is entirely consistent with the terms of the contract he signed with Serco NorthLink.  This is absolutely absurd.”

He added: “It is increasingly clear that the contract drawn up by Mr Brown and his officials is shot full of loopholes. His promise of improvements to service during refit periods looks particularly hollow.  People in Orkney will be wondering what other aspects of their lifeline ferry service Mr Brown has been happy to sign away.”