CLYDE and Hebrides ferry services will remain in the public sector, SNP transport secretary Fiona Hyslop announced today in a move hailed as a victory by transport union RMT.

For years, speculation had grown that the contract could be thrown open to the market, leaving lifeline routes to some of Scotland’s most remote communities at the mercy of private operators. 

Following vociferous campaigning from RMT and islanders, Ms Hyslop has now confirmed the services would remain with Scottish government-owned CalMac in answer to a parliamentary question.