CalMac chief praises first Scottish Rural Parliament

Mr Dorchester said: "CalMac was delighted to be invited to be sponsor of the first Rural Parliament as we saw it as a unique opportunity to engage with people from across Scotland who share our concerns about the challenges facing rural communities and who wish to do something to ensure that they grow, thrive and continue to make an important contribution to the Scottish community as a whole."

"As it was the first event of its kind, there was, un-surprisingly, some uncertainty as to how the programme would play out, but the buzz in and around the venue was evident from the start and continued throughout the three day event. There was a very real desire to use the opportunity to air concerns but also to recognise the positive things going on in local communities."

He said: "Credit must go to Scottish Rural Action who organised the event and to participants who clearly wished to make their voices heard. The issues raised are now being passed to the Scottish Parliament to consider and we will watch developments with interest."

Ends

1) Further information about the Rural Parliament is available at www.scottishruralparliament.org.uk

2) Further information about CalMac is available at www.calmac.co.uk

3) 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
Public Affairs Manager
CalMac
(01475 650371)