Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has confirmed that investigations are continuing into an alleged attempt to carry undeclared dangerous goods on a ferry to Barra yesterday (Tuesday, November 20).

The alleged incident is now the subject of an investigation involving police, the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other bodies.

Caledonian MacBrayne’s Public Affairs Manager Hugh Dan MacLennan said: “It would be inappropriate for the company to comment further other than to confirm that the random spot-check was carried out by the MCA. The vessel involved was the MV Lord of the Isles 1530 sailing due to go from Oban to Barra. The vehicle involved had not reached the ship and did not travel. MCA officials carried out the investigation and as the police are now involved, we have nothing further to say on the matter at this stage.”

Caledonian MacBrayne warned hauliers in September of 2001 that the company would, along with relevant agencies, be increasing the frequency of random inspections of vehicles travelling on ferry services. The move related to the possibility that undeclared dangerous goods might be shipped on vessels. Hauliers were reminded that the company’s Commercial Conditions & Charges leaflet - in particular the sections titled ‘Dangerous Goods’ and ‘Inspection of Vehicles’ – details the procedures to be followed.

Kenny Boyd, Port Services Manager at Oban said today (Wednesday, November 20): “We are taking this opportunity once again to remind hauliers that under the Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997, it is the responsibility of the carrier/haulier to ensure that all dangerous goods offered for shipment are properly declared to the shipping company at least 24 hours in advance. Penalties for breaching these regulations include an unlimited fine or up to two years’ imprisonment.”

The security and safety checks being carried out by the company will include drivers being asked to open their vehicle in order that a visual inspection of the load may be carried out. Refusal to co-operate may lead to the vehicle being refused shipment.