Transport / Second ferry fare increase in 12 months draws criticism from MSP
SHETLAND’S MSP has criticised the Scottish Government after it increased fares on NorthLink ferries for the second time in 12 months.
Transport minister Fiona Hyslop announced on Monday that fares on the Aberdeen-Kirkwall-Lerwick route would increase by 10 per cent from January.
That comes just nine months after the Scottish Government increased the fares by 8.7 per cent, acknowledging the rise “will be challenging for some”.
Isles MSP Beatrice Wishart called the latest increase “a financial blow for ferry passengers of all ages”.
“The Scottish Government patted themselves on the back when they ‘froze’ ferry fares in recent years,” she said.
“Now, instead of incremental increases across the years reflecting the realities of rising fuel and other costs, passengers are being lumbered with soaring ticket prices matched with the inability to travel on preferred dates due to capacity issues.”
Wishart said those entitled to concessionary vouchers – including “the most vulnerable who live here” – now had to use two vouchers to secure a cabin for sole use since the withdrawal of shared cabins.
And she said the January price change meant passengers travelling to or from Shetland would pay more for their return journey.
“The Scottish Government’s delay in making this decision has also held up the ability of passengers to book travel beyond 31 December 2024.
“I have raised this ‘cliff edge’ booking issue numerous times with numerous Scottish Government ministers but with no serious action by either the government or the operators to find a solution to this recurring problem”.
Wishart said there seemed to be “a lack of understanding of the significant impact this has on islanders”.
“I continue to press for a rolling booking system to avoid future ‘cliff edges’, along with the restoration of the full value of concessionary vouchers for those entitled to them.”
Environment and transport chairwoman Moraig Lyall was also critical of the fare increase, saying prices were already at a level that prevented some people from travelling.
“I acknowledge that we benefited from frozen fares for a number of years but at a time when family finances are tighter then this will add additional pressure.
“If Transport Scotland are asking more for the service then we need to begin to see some serious progress with addressing the capacity issues, with finance put in place for the new freighter flex vessels which are expected to provide additional cabins and car space.”
NorthLink Ferries said it would open its 2025 timetable for bookings at the earliest possible opportunity.
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