51AVÊÓÆµ

Farmers can ill-afford CalMac ferry shortage 'fiasco'

NFU Scotland said CalMac must prioritise farm businesses in remote island communities which rely on ferries after the operator has faced challenges running services due to technical problems and maintenance issues

Chris Brayford
clock • 3 min read
NFUS vice-president Duncan Macalister said: "For island farmers and crofters, reliable ferry services are not a luxury, they are essential infrastructure that underpins day-to-day business. At this time of year, disruption creates immediate and very real challenges. Livestock movements are delayed, and vital supplies like feed and fertiliser risk not arriving when they are needed most."
Image:

NFUS vice-president Duncan Macalister said: "For island farmers and crofters, reliable ferry services are not a luxury, they are essential infrastructure that underpins day-to-day business. At this time of year, disruption creates immediate and very real challenges. Livestock movements are delayed, and vital supplies like feed and fertiliser risk not arriving when they are needed most."

A shortage of ferries in Scotland could have a detrimental impact on farm businesses in remote island communities as an operator is urged to resolve the situation as soon as possible. CalMac said eight...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

'Admit Labour's mistake and axe the Family 51AVÊÓÆµtax', Prime Minister told

'Admit Labour's mistake and axe the Family 51AVÊÓÆµtax', Prime Minister told

Conservative MPs, MSPs, MSs and Councillors have signed a letter urging Andy Burnham to change course on Inheritance Tax

Alex Black
clock 28 August 2026 • 2 min read
Why has the EU banned Brazilian beef imports and what does it mean for the UK?

Why has the EU banned Brazilian beef imports and what does it mean for the UK?

The EU’s ban on Brazilian meat comes into force next week (September 3) but no action has yet been taken by the UK Government

Mia Willemsen
clock 28 August 2026 • 4 min read
"Unjustified and completely impractical" - firearms crackdown proposals receive push back

"Unjustified and completely impractical" - firearms crackdown proposals receive push back

Police watchdog recommends a major overhaul to shotgun licensing after its new report shows ‘weaknesses’ in the firearms system in England and Wales

Mia Willemsen
clock 28 August 2026 • 3 min read