Question reference: S6W-20597
- Asked by: Beatrice Wishart, MSP for Shetland Islands, Scottish Liberal Democrats
- Date lodged: 11 August 2023
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Current status: Answered by Fiona Hyslop on 6 September 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in relation to the Northern Isles route between Aberdeen and Lerwick, whether it will provide a provisional timeline (a) from pre-build to full entry into service for new (i) passenger and (ii) freight vessels and (b) for any community engagement regarding vessel design and services to ensure that they meet the needs of the islands.
Answer
The pre consultation draft of the Islands Connectivity Plan Long Term Plan for Vessels and Ports, published in December 2022, indicates that the Northern Isles Ferry Service freight vessels are scheduled to be replaced and the passenger vessels project developed between 2026-2031. As these projects progress, engagement events will be held to enable key stakeholders to contribute to the outcomes. CMAL will communicate details of the various engagement events when arrangements are made. The business case work will be reviewed when complete and all future funding for delivery will be determined as part of the annual Scottish Budget setting process, as is normal.