Ferry dispute sees Earl Thorfinn tied up for three days

An ongoing pay dispute at Orkney Ferries will see that Earl Thorfinn tied up tomorrow morning, Tuesday,  for three days.

This will reduce the number of vessels serving communities in the Outer North Isles from three to two.

Councillor Graham Sinclair, chairman of Orkney Ferries, said: “Tying up the vessel is the last thing any of us would want to do, but is a consequence of the ongoing industrial action we face.

“The action being taken means that Orkney Ferries sea staff are no longer agreeing to cover when colleagues are absent, for example through sickness. It is also making it more difficult to find alternative cover.

“This leaves the company with no option other than to tie a boat up. Everyone involved regrets the impact this will have on our customers at what we know is a busy time of the year.”

In an attempt to resolve the dispute, an improved offer was made recently to the three unions involved.

Orkney Ferries heard today that members of Nautilus International have rejected this offer.

Councillor Sinclair added: “We are disappointed by the outcome of this ballot and now await the results of the other two ballots.”

A contingency timetable has been drawn up to cover this period and is available on the Orkney Ferries website – www.orkneyferries.co.uk