MV Caledonian Isles Delays Pose Winter Challenges

Islanders are bracing for a challenging winter as the MV Caledonian Isles, a key ferry for the Arran route, may remain out of service until March due to unexpected repairs. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop acknowledged that the ferry operator, CalMac, is exploring three options to redeploy vessels to mitigate the disruption. The ferry was scheduled to return on November 20, but further work on its stern tube bearings and steelwork is required. Critics, including Conservative MSP Jamie Greene, accused the SNP of failing to address these issues for months, pointing to a lack of investment in ferry services. Hyslop defended the government's commitment to maintaining lifeline services while admitting that the situation is deeply frustrating. A decision regarding vessel redeployments is expected next week as the government prepares for a difficult winter ahead.