Ferries galore

There has been a lot of discussion, including in the Scottish Parliament, about the crisis surrounding our ferry service. Calmac, our local operator, own a fleet of vessels which are up to 35 years old. The Scottish Government, made up by the SNP, have done very little to replace these old girls over the 15 years they've been in power. Two vessels were ordered, but are now a breathtaking FIVE years overdue in delivery. The contract was botched by the Scottish Government, meaning that the shipyard which building the craft, does not have to stump up for the overrun. It has now taken up a lot of First Minister's Questions - and here are senior SNP politicians complaining that FMQ is all about ferries. 'Scuse me, government is about the whole country, including far-flung places like Lochboisdale, Stornoway and Port Ellen. Take your responsibility seriously, forget about the blessed independence referendum for a change, or quit.

Our local Member of the Scottish Parliament does not feel it is necessary to raise a public inquiry into the overrun ferry fiasco. It's taxpayers' money we're talking about, and those responsible should be held to account. It is like drawing blood out of a stone to get the Scottish Government to release all the requisite documents, and our MSP is not convinced that such is required. Methinks Dr Allan is more concerned about keeping in with her nibs, the First Minister and leader of his party, than doing his job as representing the people of Na h-Eileanan Siar. Their interests are actively harmed by not having an adequate ferry service - because the boats are old and continually breaking down. And their interests matter more than the position of the MSP within the SNP. If it requires him to lose favour with the FM in order to achieve a good, lifeline ferry service, then he should stand up and demand a public inquiry. Does someone have something to hide?