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The
Nationalists do not deserve a single vote out of Arran or Cumbrae.
As far as the SNP is concerned, the Clyde Coast
Islands might as well not exist.
Allan Wilson, Labour's
candidate for Cunninghame North has accused the SNP of abandoning the Clyde
Coast Islands after they were left out of the party's plans to "pilot"
cheaper ferry fares.
Mr Wilson said: "On the basis of this crucial issue alone, the Nationalists
do not deserve a single vote out of Arran or Cumbrae. They have committed
themselves only to pilot a version of Road Equivalent Tariff in the Western
Isles - with no mention of the Clyde routes”.
"They also promise 'a study' of ferry services in the Northern Isles but
there is not a single reference to the Clyde islands. As far as the SNP is
concerned, they might as well not exist".
Mr Wilson added: "Labour is committed to the early introduction of a Ferry
Discount Scheme, building on the success of the Air Discount Scheme which we
introduced for those islands with air links to the mainland. Our ferry
scheme will definitely include all of the islands served by Caledonian
MacBrayne - including the Clyde islands”.
"There are no ifs, buts, studies or pilots. The Ferry Discount Scheme is a
firm pledge starting with a 40 per cent saving for foot passengers who live
in the islands, exactly in line with the Air Discount Scheme. There will
also be substantial discounts, still to be determined, for cars and freight
leaving the islands”.
"The impact of ferry charges on island life is well known and we don't need
another study to tell us what they are. Both Jack McConnell and I understand
that what we need is action and that is what Labour is committed to".
He added: "As well as island residents, those who are studying at mainland
colleges and universities but whose home is on Arran or Cumbrae will also be
eligible”.
"Not only will our discounted fares benefit island families and students but
will also help island businesses. We will consult with the ferry company
shortly after the election but we are determined that the benefits of the
discounts are passed on to island consumers and producers and not just
retained by hauliers”.
"Ferry discounts will boost island economies and give people greater freedom
of movement. We have seen the success of the free ferry and bus travel
schemes for the elderly, which is one of the great achievements of Labour in
the Scottish Parliament, and now we intend to build on that success with
discounted ferry travel for all island residents."
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