Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne today (Thursday, May 14,) met with community representatives to advise them of recent developments regarding ferry services on the Western Isles.
 
Chairman Peter Timms confirmed that the company has been approached by the Equality and Human Rights Commission following a complaint to them suggesting that CalMac are operating in breach of the Equality Act 2006 as a consequence of its existing practice of not providing Sunday sailings on some of the Clyde & Hebrides Ferry Services.
 
The company is required to operate within the terms of the law at all times and CalMac directors have therefore sought independent legal advice on whether it could be in breach. That legal advice has indicated that CalMac is likely to be in breach of the 2006 Equality Act.
 
CalMac Directors are now considering the implications of this.
 
The company today began consulting with interested parties on how to operate within the terms of the legislation. However, they have made clear that no decision will be taken until the implications for operations have been fully investigated.
 
Peter Timms, Chairman of CalMac said: "Although this is not a formal legal challenge we cannot ignore the underlying claim that we may be operating unlawfully. We have sought legal advice and it appears we are likely to be in breach of the 2006 Act. As a result the CalMac board are now considering the implications of this. We are keen to consult with community representatives about how to operate within the terms of the legislation and no decision will be taken until the implications for operations have been fully investigated.”

Ends.
 
Notes to Editors
 
1.    Caledonian MacBrayne and CalMac are trading names of CalMac Ferries
Ltd (CFL). These names are used under licence from Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL). The lion rampant device is used by CFL with the permission of CMAL.

For further information, contact:

David Cannon
Group Public Affairs Manager
David MacBrayne Ltd
Tel: 01475 650371
Mob: 07595 092332