Current status: Answered by Graeme Dey on 2 November 2021
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made of the number of hospital appointments that have been missed on the mainland as a result of delays or cancellations on the Ardrossan-Brodick ferry route.
We have made no specific assessment of the number of hospital appointments that have been missed on the mainland as a result of delays or cancellations on the Ardrossan-Brodick ferry route.
We recognise the impact that ferry disruption has on island communities, and are taking steps to address resilience across the network. The MV Glen Sannox is due to be delivered next year which will improve vessel resilience on this route.
Whenever there is disruption, CalMac Ferries Ltd (CFL) do their best to assist passengers with a need to travel, particularly those with medical appointments, and will always do everything possible to accommodate passengers on alternative sailings.
In order to address capacity issues, a new policy has been put in place to ensure anyone with a short notice medical appointment who cannot book a vehicle can travel as a foot passenger and CFL will arrange a taxi.