RMT strike will fail to close CalMac network

Ferry operator CalMac will still operate around one third of its services tomorrow (Friday, June 26) in the face of strike action by the RMT union.

At the moment ten of its 27 routes are planned to sail as normal or to an amended timetable. In total CalMac say it will still be able to carry around 40% of normal passenger capacity across its network during the strike action.

Passengers are being urged to check the CalMac website for latest service information before travelling. Worst affected routes will be those serviced by the company's larger vessels including the Outer Hebrides, Mull, Colonsay, Coll, Tiree and Islay.

But a number of the smaller routes that attract large numbers of passengers will operate as normal.

"It is not too late for agreement to be reached. I would urge RMT members thinking about striking tomorrow to go back to their union and ask them to think again about the consequences this action will have on their own communities," said CalMac's managing director, Martin Dorchester.

"Our door continues to remain open to reach a satisfactory conclusion that suits all parties and avoids this unnecessary action.

"Although it looks like this action will be limited in scope, it will undoubtedly still hit the communities we serve hard. It is not just an inconvenience at the start of the tourist season it will impact island businesses where it hurts most, in their pockets.

"We will continue to work to mitigate as much as possible any disruption for the travelling public and I would like to apologise for any inconvenience and thank passengers for their patience during this time."