Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has today (Friday, October 17) welcomed the confirmation by the Scottish Executive that it is to seek urgent clarification with the European Commission whether a recent European ruling on state aid provisions means the CalMac ferry service must still go out to tender.

CalMac Managing Director Lawrie Sinclair said: “It is obviously extremely important for all concerned that this issue is clarified. The company shares the Executive’s priority of seeking to protect lifeline ferry services.  It is not in the interests of the communities we serve that we should have to proceed in an atmosphere of uncertainty. We are pleased that the Scottish Executive has taken this step and we look forward to receiving the clarification as swiftly as possible.”

Mr Sinclair added: “In the meantime, the company will continue to prepare for a tendering competition. Nothing has changed in this regard and we will now be continuing our efforts to improve the business on all fronts so that we can produce a successful bid. Until we are told otherwise, we are proceeding on the basis that there will be a tendering process and all our staff are aware of the importance of getting the company in the best possible shape, while continuing to provide the vital lifeline services on which the communities depend. It is for others to decide what is going to happen. It is for us to gear up for the challenges we face with renewed vigour.”

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For further information on the contents of this News Release, please contact Dan MacLennan, Public Affairs Manager, Caledonian MacBrayne.

Tel: 0776 435 4021; e-mail hugh.maclennan@calmac.co.uk

Issued:  Friday, October 17, 2003