Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne has confirmed that following discussions held in Glasgow last week (Thursday March 17, 2005) between the company and the RMT union, the Union’s Executive, has today (Monday) confirmed that the proposed strike action involving RMT members on Hebridean and Clyde services scheduled for Wednesday 23 March has been withdrawn.

CalMac Managing Director Lawrie Sinclair said: "The meeting last week was very constructive and I am pleased that the RMT union had decided to go beyond the initial suspension of the strike action to removing it completely by withdrawal. This is a very positive outcome which enables us to focus all our efforts on what is clearly a very important week for the Company as we begin our summer service timetable on Friday."

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.