Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has welcomed the announcement from the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, John Swinney, that a study into RET and reduced ferry fares is to be carried out with a view to operating a pilot scheme on a ferry route connecting mainland Scotland and the Western Isles.

Convener Alex MacDonald said:

“Reduced ferry fares would be a major boost for the communities of the Western Isles. As well as increasing travel opportunities for the public, reduced ferry fares will provide a massive boost for Island businesses”.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Chairman of Transportation, Donald Manford said:

“This announcement is a major step towards the introduction of Road Equivalent Tariff  for the Islands. The end of the year deadline for the study is a significant move which will allow early delivery of an appropriate scheme. Reduced ferry fares through RET will provide an even playing field for the Islands and is in line with the First Minister’s aim of nation building”.