Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has confirmed that the Company will be applying a general 2.5% fares increase to all cars, passengers, coaches and commercial vehicles across the network from March 25, 2005 for the following 12 months.

This is the first time in three years that CalMac has raised the commercial vehicle rate, the last two years having been held with no increase for this sector. CalMac Managing Director Lawrie Sinclair said: “The fares rises which we are introducing from the start of the Summer timetable, 2005, for the following year recognise the significant cost pressures that the Company will face in the following 12 months. Prudent management of our fuel costs, for example, has enabled us to meet the challenges faced in that sector for a number of years and other costs have been absorbed by the company wherever possible. This is the smallest increase we could manage. There comes a point, however, where we have to pass on to customers the increasing costs which we ourselves face. We have kept these increases at as reasonable a level as is practicable, to enable us to live within our means. “

Mr. Sinclair added: “Obviously, we would wish that we will not be placed in a situation where we might have to pass on further increases in some of the charges we face as ferry operators such as pier and harbour dues. In the interim, we hope that our performance over the past number of years, where we have absorbed possible increases in the commercial sector in particular, will be recognised.”

Ends

For further information on the contents of this News Release, please contact Hugh Dan MacLennan, Head of Communication and Customer Services, Caledonian MacBrayne.  Tel: 0776 435 4021; e-mail hugh.maclennan@calmac.co.uk

Issued:  Friday,  July 9,  2004  : 0900 hours