Question reference: S6W-22813
- Asked by: Alex Rowley, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 9 November 2023
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Current status: Answered by Fiona Hyslop on 21 November 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to promote (a) continental ferry links and (b) maritime employment for Scotland.
Answer
The Scottish Government wishes to see Scotland’s sea connections to Europe enhanced, and are happy to consider any approach for support. A new commercially viable and sustainable service would be of benefit to: those parts of industry where existing supply chains are not optimal; local economies; the selected Scottish port; and would provide some resilience for Scotland from any disruption at other UK ports.
Subsidy control rules limit possible funding for new international ferry services to start-up costs, so any attempt to enhance or add to existing international trading routes would require a commercial foundation. The Scottish Government offers a range of approved grants to encourage transport operators to move freight off road to other more sustainable forms of transport, including by sea.
The Scottish Government recognises the key role that the Scottish maritime sector plays in supporting the economic and social development of our Nation. The Scottish Government has committed to investing at least £580 million from 2021-2026 in lifeline vessels and ports, as part of its Infrastructure Investment Plan. This substantial funding will improve Scotland’s lifeline ferry services by delivering greater resilience to the network, supporting maritime employment across our islands and remote mainland communities.