Lib Dem Islands MSP calls on Flynn to focus on ferries amid paddle steamer news 

Newly elected Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for the Highlands and Islands Morven-May MacCallum had today called on Stephen Flynn to focus on fixing the ferries mess now that he has been appointed Scottish Transport Secretary.

On Tuesday, the 79-year-old Waverley Paddle Steamer, first built in 1946, had to give passengers a lift from Mull to Oban after their CalMac ferry was hit by a fault.

CalMac's west coast fleet has faced severe disruption in recent months.  

At one point in April, 10 vessels from the CalMac fleet were out of action due to technical faults, annual overhauls or crewing issues.  

This disruption coincided with the start of the busy Easter and summer season.  

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for the Highlands and Islands Region Morven-May MacCallum said:  

"It is an extremely telling reflection of the state of the west coast ferry network that a1940s paddle steamer had to come to the rescue.  

"The SNP have never had any long-term plan for replacing creaking and ageing CalMac ferries. This failure is causing endless disruption for the many businesses, individuals, families and visitors who have to bear it.  

"I want to welcome Stephen Flynn to his new role as Transport Secretary, and I hope he will use that responsibility to focus on fixing the ferries mess.

"Scottish Liberal Democrats have laid out clear plans to end the ferries fiasco for good, including by introducing a new bill that will guarantee vessels are replaced on time and within budget.

"I will be using my voice in parliament to stand up for every island and coastal community in my region that has been shafted by this mess."