The SNP’s ferries disaster

The ship of state continues to run aground in Scotland, judging by the latest transport related fiasco to embroil Nicola Sturgeon’s government. Not content with refusing Westminster’s cash to fix his roads and admitting he has ‘no idea’ why rail unions are striking, SNP transport minister Graeme Dey has extended his incompetence beyond the boundaries of land. The under-fire appointee is facing questions about yet another ferries farrago after two more ships were this week declared out of action, further disrupting crucial services.

For those unfamiliar with this sorry tale of ocean-going incompetence, Steerpike is only too happy to provide a refresher. Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) is the state-owned operator of passenger, vehicle and ferry services between the mainland of Scotland and 22 of the major islands on country’s west coast. CalMac receives significant government subsidies due to its vital role in supplying these islands: these routes are classified as ‘lifeline’ services. And now SNP ministers are facing claims that they have neglected the maintenance of the ships in its service during their 14 years in office. Some