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A former Arran MSP this week criticised the SNP’s failure to immediately introduce cheaper ferry fares for Scotland’s island communities.
Allan Wilson, the Cunninghame North MSP until the election in May this year, criticised the Scottish Government for introducing a pilot scheme only in the Western Isles.
Mr Wilson said: ‘We already know all we need to know about road equivalent tariff (RET). We don’t need another study.
‘Why won’t the SNP cut ferry fares now by 40 percent to boost island economies and cut commuting costs for islanders as Labour proposed, while they undertake their latest study?’
RET involves setting ferry fares on the basis of the cost of travelling an equivalent distance by road.
Cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth John Swinney announced on Monday details of plans to lower ferry fares, but the pilot scheme will be based only in the Western Isles.
The first step will be a study to establish the most effective and sustainable structure for a road equivalent tariff (RET) pilot scheme for setting ferry fares in Scotland.
The benefits to islanders is a fundamental part of this study into RET.
Many are angered that the scheme is being piloted in a limited way that excludes the Clyde.
Local Independent councillor Margie Currie said: ‘The RET is definitely an interesting concept but long ago when it was mooted, 20 to 25 years ago, it was not considered suitable for Arran.
‘I welcome that the Scottish Government is looking into the economy of the islands and I think it is interesting and definitely something to look into but remember it is only being piloted in the Western Isles just now.’
High ferry fares have been seen by many as a barrier to economic growth on islands such as Arran. Lowering the fares to a level similar to mainland traffic costs could act as a boost to Arran’s economy by reducing freight costs to local businesses, lowering the cost of living for island residents and making the islands more attractive to tourists.
Speaking from Stornoway Harbour Mr Swinney said: ‘This Government recognises the vital importance of lifeline ferry services in supporting Scotland’s island communities. We understand the genuine concerns from our remote and fragile communities about the affordability of ferry travel and the impact this has on islanders.’
Cunninghame North MSP Kenneth Gibson said: ‘Having met both the Arran ferry Committee and Cal Mac last week, I appreciate that there are many ferry related issues facing the island.
Fares is obviously one of them and I am optimistic that the RET study will be successful. If so, I would be keen to see it rolled out to Arran as soon as it is practical to do so.’
