Ferry fares could put Scots out of business
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HAULIERS DELIVERING to and from the Western Isles of Scotland say a recent 50% increase in ferry fares, along with another 50% rise next year, will destroy the local economy and could put some firms out of business.
Courier and distribution haulier Woody’s Express says it is campaigning against the “ruinous household and haulage taxes”, and hopes to stop the government from introducing the second planned ferry increase next April.
Gail Robertson, transport manager at DJ Buchanan Haulage in Benbecula and coordinator of the Outer Hebrides Transport Group, says that Westminster budget cuts spelt the end of a subsidised ferry service for CV operators.
She adds: “[Some firms] are thinking about relocating to the mainland or having to close.
“There are a handful of hauliers, but there are also CV users, such as builders, fishermen and sea food producers.”