Transport minister heads north for OIC meeting

Transport minister Keith Brown is due in Orkney today to discuss the ongoing situation regarding the breakdown of the Hamnavoe with Orkney Islands Council.

Speaking on Tuesday, the minister said: “I was pleased that my officials have already had the opportunity to meet this week with Orkney Islands Council and tourism representatives and welcome the very positive approach taken to discussions. We reaffirmed our commitment to the Scrabster-Stromness route and to putting in place a strong consultative mechanism with Orkney representatives.”

He went on to say: “While Serco NorthLink have internal contingency planning procedures, we recognise the need for an outward facing plan and look forward to working with the council and other Orkney interests to further develop this.

“If lessons can be learned from events of recent weeks, we want to identify them to ensure contingency planning measures meet the community needs and that those plans are communicated appropriately. It is clear that communications are key for such a plan and we welcome the tourism industry’s positive approach and offer of assistance.”

He added: “I look forward very much to visiting Orkney later this week to build on discussions, update the council on the latest repair to the Hamnavoe, and to hear all views  – the community deserves nothing less.”