OUTER HEBRIDES COMMERCE GROUP STATEMENT:

FERRY TAX INCREASE – HITS ALL ISLANDERS

The economy of the Outer Hebrides has been dealt another “devastating blow” following the implementation of a 10% increase on all commercial traffic to and from the islands, according to the organisation that represents island business interests.

Speaking after a meeting in Stornoway this week, the Vice-Chairman of the Outer Hebrides Commerce Group, David Wood of Woody’s Express said: “The Scottish Government has ignored our frequent and consistent pleas not to impose a double digit increase on ferry fares. From the beginning of this month every business and family importing and exporting goods is paying an additional 10% – this is over and above the 50% increase imposed last year. Sadly, this is not the end of the ferry tax scandal – they also intend imposing another massive fare increase next year.”

“The SNP’s much vaunted policy of “RET” is well and truly dead. They’ve betrayed the original intention of reducing fares for islanders’. The OHCG is disgusted with the Scottish Government’s behaviour. We have enjoyed support from most Island Councillors – sadly those with a direct line to the Edinburgh Government have been posted missing. Every family and business is now paying this SNP imposed ferry tax”.