Caledonian MacBrayne has confirmed that the RMT Union has informed the Company of its intention to ballot members for strike action and industrial action short of strike action.

Company representatives met Union Officials at Gourock this afternoon and following a one and a half hour meeting it was confirmed that the Union would now go ahead with a ballot.

Speaking after the meeting Alan Moffat CalMac's Director of Human Resources said "The Union presented CalMac with a series of proposals which require further consideration. We will be seeking clarification on the issues raised and will be seeking to re-open dialogue with the Union as quickly as possible. The Company believes that everything we are doing is being done to protect the interests of our employees and we have already this week written to all staff assuring them that their terms and conditions will not be diminished in any way as the Company prepares to launch its bid for life line ferry services on the Clyde and in the Hebrides."

CalMac is disappointed that the RMT did not give the Company time to consider the proposals presented to today's meeting before calling for the ballot on industrial action.

ends

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

Issued: Friday 18 February 2005 16:15