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.

She said: “I am pleased to announce that Scottish ministers have confirmed that a direct award of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services contract should be made to CalMac Ferries Limited. 

“This direct award fundamentally changes the ethos of the service by shifting from a commercial arrangement to a model more focused on the delivery of a public service engaged on the particular needs of the communities it serves.

“I fully expect the direct award to be a catalyst for positive change across the Clyde and Hebrides network, based on a more efficient, flexible model of delivery that fully reflects community interests. 

“Discussions will continue with staff, island residents, businesses and communities and trade unions on the arrangements to ensure the services can best meet local needs and wants.”

RMT general secretary Eddie Dempsey said: ”This is a tremendous victory not just for our members on CalMac ferries but also for the island communities who are best served by lifeline ferries that are in public ownership.

“The Scottish government has made the right decision and now the union will work with all stakeholders to ensure that CalMac Ferries are affordable, well resourced and reward seafarers properly for their work going forward.”

TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said: “This is a reassuring move from the Scottish government because such vital public services must be kept in public hands.

"It is good news for our members, CalMac staff, and for the Islanders.

“I’m delighted ministers have listened to the advice of our unions and made a direct award to CalMac to run the Clyde and Hebrides Ferries Services once more.

“A public tendering exercise would have been a waste of taxpayers' money which would be better put to use renovating and replacing CalMac’s fleet.”