Tugs meeting ‘an important step in the right direction’

Commenting after the yesterday’s meeting of the Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV) working group in Edinburgh, Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael said:  ‘I am pleased that the replacement contract is now in place but there is still much work that remains to be done.

‘There is now a genuine commitment on all sides to ensure that we find an affordable and sustainable alternative to the current arrangements. The meeting today was a good start and an important step in the right direction.

‘This debate needs to focus on maritime safety as well as value for money. I think everyone – from the MCA to the local councils and the Scotland Office – recognises this and is committed to making this process work.’

The meeting was convened by Scottish secretary Michael Moore, and included representatives from local councils, the Department for Transport, the MCA and other groups come together to discuss alternatives to the current emergency towing vessel provision.