Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has issued the following response to the Ministerial statement of earlier today confirming that the contract for lifeline ferry services to the Northern Isles is being re-tendered. The statement may be attributed to Caledonian MacBrayne Managing Director Lawrie Sinclair.

“Caledonian MacBrayne is a 50% shareholder in NorthLink Orkney and Shetland Ferries. We are aware of the Ministerial statement made this morning about the future of the services to Orkney and Shetland by Transport Minister Nicol Stephen MSP.  The early retendering of the contract for these services from 2005 has no impact whatsoever on the operations of Caledonian MacBrayne. The difficulties NorthLink was facing have been resolved by the Scottish Executive. Caledonian MacBrayne will be monitoring the outcome of today’s developments on an ongoing basis.”

Questions specifically relating to the operation of NorthLink should be directed to Beattie Media, who are handling the Company’s media affairs.

ends

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

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

Issued:  Thursday, April 8, 2004  : 1230