Islanders angry over ferry service

ENRAGED islanders are considering legal action to halt a controversial new ferry service that started in the Western Isles of Scotland yesterday.

Caledonian MacBrayne’s new seven-day service between North Uist and South Harris is the first time a Sunday boat has left from Harris, leading to criticism from some residents and politicians on the islands who argue the Sabbath is a day of rest and should be strictly observed.

Ferries between the islands currently run six days a week, but will now operate three times on a Sunday.

Harris West councillor Morag Munro said two-thirds of the community were against the service.

She said “At the moment we are investigating whether there is a legal option open to us to protect us from this imposition.

“It is not just church people who are opposed, but also those who have come to appreciate a day of relaxation and a chance to be together with their families for one day.”

Islanders are also angry at the way the new service was introduced, claiming a decision by the operators was made before Western Isles Council was due to discuss the issue.

CalMac managing director Lawrie Sinclair confirmed the service would start as planned, but recognised it had been a “difficult decision”.