Tim Eagle MSP has said that he has been assured by CalMac that they will do everything possible to ensure that people can attend medical appointments, including help with taxis if they can’t book their own vehicle on to a crossing.
The Highlands and Islands Regional MSP made his comments after a recent meeting with CalMac representatives which he requested following concerns being raised by constituents worried about whether they would miss out on treatment.
Mr Eagle said: “CalMac are at pains to stress that they really will make every endeavour to ensure that people can make it to their appointments.
“They assured me they will do everything they can to get a car onboard and, if they can’t, they will pay for a taxi service to get people to the hospital concerned. This will be done at no charge to members of the public who find themselves in this position.
“This commitment is very encouraging and deserves to be better known across island communities. I would certainly encourage constituents who are concerned that they may not be able to book on a ferry for a medical appointment to contact CalMac directly and ask for help.”
Mr Eagle confirmed that he is having wide-ranging discussions with CalMac about a broad range of issues concerning the ferry company’s operations.
“There is huge concern across my region about the impact of cancellations and the general unreliability of the fleet. Not all of this can be put down to CalMac as it is due to the failure of decision-makers in the Scottish Government to ensure the fleet was modernised. My impression remains that CalMac staff are really committed to providing the best service they can in difficult circumstances.
“Nevertheless, there is more that can be done to turn the situation round and I fully intend keeping the pressure on both CalMac and ministers to ensure that these lifeline services are functioning as they should be. Watch this space for more updates.”