News / Naidheachdan
10th April 2015
THE LOST £££ MILLIONS OF NORTH UIST
The people of North Uist are set to lose the opportunity to invest millions of pounds which would have been generated locally if their island had won the right to build a community wind farm - according to parliamentary candidate, Alasdair Morrison.
Speaking after a meeting in Claddach Kirkibost, Alasdair Morrison said:
“An increasing number of island communities are already benefitting or in the process of erecting their own wind farms. Sadly, North Uist is not one of these fortunate communities. One of the stumbling blocks was an irrational objection from the Ministry of Defence. What was required to overcome that objection was for our MP to show leadership, commitment and focus and make a coherent and robust case on behalf of his constituents. I listened to speaker after speaker condemn the lack of effort and political application which now sees North Uist falling behind and not benefitting from the renewables revolution so oft quoted by the Edinburgh based Government. The people of North Uist have already lost money but they now need to regroup and begin the process again. I was able to assure all at the meeting that if I become their Member of Parliament next month North Uist and its people will get the attention and support they rightly deserve. It has been depressing travelling through island communities this week and hearing people amplify concerns about the state of local economy, failing ferry services and learning directly the damage being visited on communities and families because of the absence of anything that could be described as coherent and grown up political support and representation.”
"At the end of the meeting Councillor Uisdean Robertson also voiced his dismay about the lack of interest from the Scottish Government and its agencies. I know that Mr Robertson and other conscientious people will strive to find a way forward. I sincerely hope that I can join them on the journey and help make a lasting difference to North Uist.”
6th April 2015
CIVIL ENGINEERING CRISIS LOOMING WARNS MORRISON
Every public agency in the islands should be concerned about the "crisis that’s about to hit island based
civil engineering companies” according to parliamentary candidate, Alasdair Morrison.
Speaking at the headquarters of D. MacKay and Sons Ltd at Parkend Industrial Estate Stornoway,
Alasdair Morrison said:
“For years, civil engineering companies in the islands have been at the forefront of developments,
improving our infra-structure and were major employers in the local economy. Sadly, the industry is
now facing a crisis not of its own making. It is clear that the failure of politicians to secure capital funding
for island projects is going to lead to a further reduction in the numbers employed by island based civil
engineering companies. Some companies have already paid off employees and further contraction is
imminent unless the Scottish Government, Scottish Water and a host of other public bodies responsible
for investing taxpayers money bring forward planned expenditure. The neglect must end and we need
the Scottish Government to focus on its responsibilities, and do so in conjunction with local companies.
Our islands need a serious and concerted approach to economic development. It's clear the present
arrangements are not working”.
"I found today’s discussion with respected and hard working civil engineers depressing - and it had a
familiar ring to it: neglect. They’ve been neglected and their pressing needs have been forgotten. Our
Parliamentarians neglect hits our friends, neighbours and communities. As a Parliamentary candidate
I can only highlight their plight - but if I am elected to represent these islands I will give a real focus and
impetus to economic development. We need action and our communities and people rightly expect those
in elected office put their interest before any other concern”.
2nd April 2015
GALSON ESTATE "THE PERFECT HOSTS"
FOR WAVE ENERGY SCOTLAND
Western Isles Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison has said that the jobs being created in the new government body, Wave Energy Scotland, must be located and hosted by Galson Estate on the west side of Lewis.
Speaking after meeting with staff and directors of Galson Estate, Alasdair Morrison said:
"I hope that every candidate at the election can support my call for jobs related to this new government organisation, Wave Energy Scotland, to be located in the islands. Galson Estate exemplifies the spirit of renewal community ownership of land and resources can unleash. They have made tremendous progress and are providing leadership and helping nurture innovation. Their use of natural resources, primarily wind at this stage, to generate income for the people on the Estate has been remarkable. Galson Estate is, in my view, in pole position to host these jobs. There is no good reason for an organisation called Wave Energy Scotland to be located anywhere other than on the island which is recognised as offering the best potential for taking wave technology forward. This would also offer a major economic boost to Lewis and compensate for the Scottish Government's past failure to deliver on promises relating to wave energy".
And he said: "I have spoken with the Inverness based interim-chief executive of Wave Energy Scotland, Tim Hurst, and he told me that the posts of managing director and other senior posts have been advertised but no decision about where they will be based has been taken. I know Comhairle nan Eilean Siar will support this call to have these jobs located in the islands. I hope we can all work together and turn the tide of centralisation that has been so damaging to our islands".
31st March 2015
MACNEIL 'FLOUNDERING OVER FAILING FERRY SERVICES'
Parliamentary candidate Alasdair Morrison has today accused Angus MacNeil of trying to "close down debate" by stating that only MSPs are entitled to discuss our failing ferry services.
Speaking in Stornoway, Alasdair Morrison said:
“I have put the economy of our islands centre stage during this election campaign. Without a strong and developing economy our communities suffer. This morning I was shocked by Angus MacNeil's criticism of our stated transportation policies which would transform life and work on our islands. Mr MacNeil's response was that not a word should be uttered about ferry or airline services during this Westminster election campaign - because, according to him, only members of the Scottish Parliament possess the collective wisdom on such matters. It is patently obvious why Angus Brendan MacNeil doesn’t want to debate the SNP’s shameful record that's led to our ferry fiasco. But I can assure everyone that I will not be silenced on these matters of fundamental importance and neither will the families and businesses who are suffering.
How the SNP think they can separate ferry services and air services from discussion on the islands' economy, defies logic. It was also very clear from today’s radio report that Angus Brendan McNeil is trying to shift the blame for the continuing ferry fiasco to his friend and colleague Alasdair Allan MSP”.
21st March 2015
FULL TRANSPARENCY REQUIRED
OVER LOCH SEAFORTH DEAL
Labour has called for “full transparency” over the leasing deal which results from the new mv Loch Seaforth being the first-ever ferry sailing under Caledonian MacBrayne colours not to be publicly-owned.
Western Isles candidate, Alasdair Morrison, said the communities to be served by the Loch Seaforth were entitled to know the terms of the deal which involves Lloyds Banking Group owning the vessel, leasing it to Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd who in turn sub-lease it to Caledonian MacBrayne.
Mr Morrison said: “The more this story unravels, the greater the impression of a privatising agenda within the Scottish Government and a total disregard for the right of communities directly affected by decisions relating to ferries.
“It appears that at least £5 million of the CalMac subsidy will be committed for the next 20 years to sub-leasing the ‘Loch Seaforth’ via the infrastructure company, CMAL. But nobody seems to know the terms on which this secret deal has been done, or by whom.
“This has to be looked at over the lifespan of the Loch Seaforth. Who will pay for major repairs if they are required? Who will be responsible for replacing her on the Stornoway-Ullapool route in the event of major breakdowns or other unforeseen circumstances, which are not exactly unknown?”
“Unless we know the terms of the deal done with Lloyds Bank by the Scottish Government, we have no idea of where responsibility lies, or at what cost. This is a totally unique situation since this SNP Government is the first, of any political complexion, to procure a CalMac ferry under a Private Finance Initiative”.
Mr Morrison said it was “insulting to island communities to claim commercial confidentiality” when the money would come out of subsidy to CalMac or whoever else might replace them. He added: “If they are paying £5 million or £10 million a year to the Lloyds Banking Group, then that is £5 million or £10 million a year less to subsidise operations over the CalMac network.”
He said that it was particularly important to secure the information because of the tendering process. “It will be intolerable if companies like Serco and Stagecoach are told the terms of the Loch Seaforth lease, and make their commercial adjustments accordingly, while the people of the Western Isles are kept totally in the dark”.
11th March 2015
SNP MUST STATE OPPOSITION TO CLOSURE
OR DOWNGRADING OF LOCHBOISDALE HARBOUR
Alasdair Morrison has demanded that SNP politicians state clearly that they oppose the closure or any downgrading of Lochboisdale Harbour as advocated by SNP candidate Rosyln McPherson in her first public statement in the by-election campaign. Alasdair Morrison described North Uist and Benbecula by-election council candidate, Roslyn McPherson’s first foray into the public domain as “worryingly stupid and astonishing”.
He said: "Her statement betrays exactly what is being discussed at a senior level within SNP headquarters in Stornoway - Roslyn MacPherson is closely attached and involved with everything that both MP and MSP say and do.
For decades the islands realised success by ensuring we worked together. We saw many councillors forgoing investment for their own areas so that major infrastructure developments could be built. Eriskay and Berneray causeways and Scalpay bridge would never have been built if councillors took the parochial and narrow view being advocated by Roslyn MacPherson and the SNP. We need clear and unambiguous statements from Angus Brendan MacNeil and Alasdair Allan opposing the nonsense that Lochboisdale should close and that Lochmaddy become the only port in Uist. Mrs MacPherson’s statement is - to borrow a phrase - an unpardonable folly - and the agenda within it must be vigorously opposed".
5th March 2015
MAJOR UIST EMPLOYER MAY RELOCATE
TO MAINLAND AS CALMAC SERVICE RUINS BUSINESS
The increasingly "erratic and diminished" ferry service to North and South Uist has the potential to cause even greater economic chaos in the islands unless the SNP Government acts decisively and holds ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne to account, according to Parliamentary candidate, Alasdair Morrison.
Speaking in Lochmaddy, Alasdair Morrison said:
"The seriousness of the situation is clearly not understood by those charged with running our transport network and ferry links. It gives me no pleasure to say that one major employer I met in Uist is considering relocating most of his company to the mainland.
"That is a shocking indictment of the SNPs failure and a total disregard by Cal-Mac for the economic and social state of our islands. The consistent tales of woe are depressing and clearly people are not being listened to. They are fed up with so called consultation processes and the nonsense that is a failing winter trial on the Lochboisdale-Mallaig route. I hope that when the Islands and Transport Minister Derek Mackay eventually gets round to coming to Uist that he listens to real people and doesn’t surround himself with the usual fawning suspects. Jobs and the viability of many of our communities are at stake. The Scottish Government has to listen.
“It’s also clear that tourism in Uist continues to suffer because of an erratic and diminished ferry service. The proprietors of Lochboisdale Hotel, Calum and Karen MacAulay, detailed how the shambolic ferry service is impacting on their business. They are furious that their ferry rarely berths in Lochboisdale and often fails to complete the Barra - Lochboisdale leg of the journey from Oban. I also met with Stòras Uibhist, community councillors and members of the public - all of whom said the same: they are not being listened to, and our politicians are posted missing”.
2nd March 2015
NEW WAVE ENERGY JOBS MUST BE LOCATED IN THE ISLANDS
Western Isles Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison has called for the new Scottish Government body, Wave Energy Scotland, to be located in Lewis so that it does not become "another distant quango living off peripheral resources".
The new body has been set up following the collapse of Pelamis, the Edinburgh-based technology developer and the Scottish Government's admission that nobody is going to win the Saltire Prize which, said Mr Morrison, "raised entirely false hopes about the wave power sector".
Mr Morrison said:
"It is now clear to everyone that, in order to give credibility to its otherwise incredible energy policy, the Scottish Government encouraged expectations about what wave power would contribute on a timescale that was entirely out of line with technical progress.
"One after another, the companies which set up shop in Lewis amidst SNP fanfares have disappeared. They have taken with them large amounts of taxpayers' money, very little of which has been invested in the communities closest to the potential resource".
He continued: "The collapse of Pelamis has forced the Scottish Government to recognise that press releases do not create an industry. Wave Energy Scotland is intended to salvage something from the tens of millions of pounds that have gone to failed companies which could not deliver on the promises made.
"That is a welcome recognition of reality. But there is no good reason for an organisation called Wave Energy Scotland to be located anywhere other than on the island which is recognised as offering the best potential for taking this technology forward. This would also offer a major economic boost to Lewis and compensate it for the past failure to deliver".
Mr Morrison noted that an official of Highlands and Islands Enterprise has been appointed to lead Wave Energy Scotland. He said: "There are not many waves in Inverness and even fewer in Edinburgh. There are supposed to be 12 or 13 new jobs associated with this new organisation and most, if not all, of them could be located on Lewis.
"There is already high quality energy research being pursued at Lews Castle College and by the spin-off company Greenspace. There could be real benefits for Arnish and other local companies. I have today written to Fergus Ewing making the case for Wave Energy Scotland to be located here and have asked the MP and MSP for the Western Isles for their support”.
2nd March 2015
SNP TURN THEIR BACKS ON CALMAC
FERRY SERVICES, CREW AND STAFF
The Western Isles are being let down by the inaction of their MP and MSP regarding ferry services, according to Parliamentary candidate Alasdair Morrison.
Speaking today he said:
“I was shocked to hear Alasdair Allan MSP state on Radio nan Gàidheal this morning that it is “too early to be discussing the ferry tender process”. This amounts to nothing more than a shameful attempt to avoid discussing a matter of fundamental importance to every family and business in these islands. The SNP representatives refused to state that they oppose the privatisation of our ferry services. Today’s astonishing statement is further evidence that both our MSP and MP are completely out of touch with what’s happening in our islands. Our communities and businesses are suffering and no-one is listening”.
23rd February 2015
SNP MUST ADDRESS ISLES BED BLOCKING
AND FUND BETHESDA EXTENSION
Parliamentary candidate, Alasdair Morrison, has demanded that the Scottish Health Minister provides funds to Bethesda Care Home and Hospice to help address the bed blocking issues at Western Isles hospital. Speaking following a meeting with DR Macdonald at Bethesda Care Home and Hospice, Alasdair Morrison said:
"Despite the best efforts of our excellent NHS staff they are working in demanding conditions where too many of their patients are being kept in hospital when they should really be cared for in a “step-down” facility. I was shown today the facility that could house these much needed beds for people who don’t need the level of medical care a hospital provides but need to be cared for in a facility that will see them through the period until they are fit enough to their own homes.
Both the council and the local health board are to be commended for allocating revenue money that would pay for the day-to-day running of these beds. Currently there is room in the upper part of Bethesda that could accommodate these much needed beds, which in turn would immediately relieve the bed blocking at the Western Isles hospital. I was told during my visit to Bethesda that capital support of around £450,000 pounds would allow for this facility to be furnished and allow Bethesda to care for people who are looking for a step down facility which in turn will allow them to return to their own homes when they improve.
If the SNP is serious about tackling this challenge the minister must address this matter immediately by providing capital funding. I have made repeated requests to both our MP and MSP to support me on a cross-party basis. Sadly they have yet to respond to any of my invitations. I do hope they will start to put people before party and support this reasonable call to the health minister which will allow us to jointly address a problem that frustrates patients, NHS and council home care staff”.
19th February 2015
LOCHBOISDALE MALLAIG ROUTE MUST BE
IN GOVERNMENT TENDER DOCUMENT
Parliamentary candidate Alasdair Morrison has written to the SNP urging them to support him in a cross-party initiative that would focus on improving ferry services to Uist and Barra. He has also demanded that the Lochboisdale - Mallaig route be an integral part of the tender document the Scottish Government is due to publish shortly.
See text of letter to Alasdair Allan MSP & Angus MacNeil MP below:
Dear Angus and Alasdair
Sadly, you have failed to reply to any of my reasonable requests to co-operate on a cross-party basis on issues of importance to the people and communities of our islands. Notwithstanding your baffling silence on these matters it is my intention to campaign positively and work with any like minded person, regardless of political affiliation.
Can I once again appeal to you to support our communities and insist that the Lochboisdale-Mallaig ferry route be part of the tender document the Edinburgh Government is putting together? You will be conversant with the shambolic three year winter trial your Government imposed on South Uist. It simply isn’t working. However, we should now work together to rectify the situation. Councillors, community councils and tourism organisations have all stated that they want to see a proper all year trial on this route. Can I ask you to publicly state that you will urge the Transport Minister Derek Mackay to put in place a meaningful trial and that he also puts the Lochboisdale - Mallaig route in the ferry tender document that will shortly be published?
I would also urge you to insist that the tender process be completed before the Scottish Parliament elections so that the people of these islands can clearly see which parties and representatives are actually fighting to improve services.
I do hope that you will respond to this request.
Leis gach deagh dhùrachd,
Alasdair Morrison
M: 07786 336 128
E: alasdair4mp@gmail.com
www.scottishlabour.org.uk
19th February 2015
REINSTATE LOCAL TUG BOAT URGES LABOUR CANDIDATE
Labour candidate Alastair Morrison has written to the Scottish Secretary urging the government to reinstate a tug boat in the Minch in order to safeguard our mariners and the marine environment, as well as fishing, aquaculture and tourism jobs which depend on it.
Alasdair Morrison said:
"The cargo ship which has run aground off Ardnamurchan serves as a warning of the dangers that threaten our fragile marine environment.
Whilst we are pleased that at this point there has been no reported pollution, this would appear to be very fortunate. There was a significant delay after the ship grounding before the only available tug arrived in the area due to the distance it had to travel. We once had a tug, based in Stornoway, which allowed a more immediate response. That is the service which must be reinstated. Does there have to be a serious incident before the government listen to the people and accept we need a dedicated tug in the Minch waters?"
17th February 2015
MORRISON DEMANDS RETENDERING
PROCESS TO BE PULLED FORWARD
Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison is today highlighting the 'cynical manipulation' of the ferry retendering process by the SNP Government.
Alasdair Morrison said:
"The Scottish Government underestimate the people of the Western Isles if they think we cannot see their cynical manipulation of the tender process. This process should be about protecting island ferry services, jobs and our communities. If this process is to have a modicum of integrity it must be truncated and the decision taken months before the Scottish Parliament elections.
I am astounded that the Transport & Islands Minister, Derek Mackay, is postponing the decision until 3 weeks after the next Scottish Parliament elections. Our lifeline ferry services are too important to be manipulated for political gain and this must be about services and communities."
17th February 2015
MORRISON URGES ISLANDERS TO SUPPORT ISLES TOURISM INDUSTRY
Islands Parliamentary candidate Alasdair Morrison has urged islanders to complete the short survey indicating which days the ferry, the Isle of Lewis, should provide additional sailings alongside the Loch Seaforth.
Speaking after completing the survey, Alasdair Morrison said:
"A concentrated and combined effort from people committed to securing an improved ferry service to Lewis embarrassed the Scottish Government into agreeing additional services to the island during the peak weeks of the tourist season. Outer Hebrides Tourism is running an online survey and have indicated their preference for an additional sailing on a Monday, Friday and Saturday. In my view, their case is well argued and compelling. Additional sailings on those days would greatly benefit tourism providers. We must maintain pressure on the Scottish Government and its agencies to respond and listen to those best placed to take decisions about ferry services. The days of taking what mainland based government agencies decree as good for us must come to an end. I’d urge everyone to complete the short survey.”
The survey can be found at www.hebridean-tourism.org
12th February 2015
ISLES MP AND MSP FAIL TO STAND UP
FOR CAL-MAC STAFF AND CREW
Alasdair Morrison has expressed his dismay at the unwillingness of the current Western Isles MP & MSP to unite against looming privatisation across the Caledonian MacBrayne network.
Speaking today Alasdair Morrison said:
“Last week, I offered to work with the MP and MSP on a cross-party basis, to protect valuable jobs and services across the Cal-Mac. But they have refused to even acknowledge the issue - never mind state they will oppose the privatisation in whole, or part, of Cal-Mac’s services.
I hope that SNP members in the islands will urge them to support our friends and neighbours who work for Cal-Mac. Since the referendum I have advocated that we need a 'Team Hebrides' approach to matters of community importance. The MPs and MSPs baffling silence on this fundamentally important matter should alarm all who care about our ferry services. Despite their snub and refusal to support Cal-Mac staff - I will continue working with the trades unions’ and others who are committed to protecting jobs, services and communities."
10th February 2015
MORRISON URGES HEALTH MINISTER TO INTERVENE IN
ISLE OF HARRIS GP CONCERNS
Parliamentary candidate Alasdair Morrison has written to the Scottish Health Secretary urging her to intervene and address the lack of GP cover in North Harris with the "urgency the situation merits”. He told her not to "shirk her responsibilities" and ask herself a simple question, is the lack of GP cover in north Harris a situation which she would accept for herself or her family?
Text of letter to Ms Robison:
Dear Ms Robison,
I recently met with a concerned group of residents in Harris who outlined their grave concerns regarding the impact inadequate out-of-hours GP cover is having on their community and families.
Since that meeting I have received numerous emails and messages from others in Harris who are appalled that the Scottish Government is unable and unwilling to provide resources that will ensure that everybody on the island enjoys round-the-clock GP cover. They feel abandoned by those who are supposed to represent them and have contacted me so that this unacceptable situation can be brought to your attention.
I was shocked to hear from a lady who had to drive her daughter and sick grandchild, late at night, in treacherous winter conditions, over the highest roads in these islands to receive medical care in the hospital in Stornoway. This is a completely unacceptable and needs to be immediately addressed by you and your Department. I would urge you to apply a simple test: is this a set of circumstances that you would accept for you and your family? As well as the obvious implications for those living in Harris, this also affects the health professionals based in Lewis who are expected to provide the additional coverage.
As our health minister you must not shirk responsibility but personally involve yourself in this matter and put in place a proper and adequate solution.
I look forward to hearing from you as a matter of urgency, as I am sure you will appreciate that for the community on the Isle of Harris the current situation is unacceptable.
Alasdair Morrison
5th February 2015
Letter sent today from Isles’ Labour candidate to Alasdair Allan MSP and Angus MacNeil MP regarding concerns about the re-tendering of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services (CHFS):
“Dear Alasdair and Angus,
You will be aware of the concerns about the re-tendering of the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services (CHFS). These concerns have been clearly expressed by the trade unions representing Caledonian MacBrayne crew and staff (RMT, Unite, Transport and Salaried Staff Association, the officers’ union Nautilus International) This uncertainty is causing alarm right across the network and in the islands, where many of our friends and neighbours are employed in valuable jobs. Of particular concern is a matter reported in this week’s West Highland Free Press where it states that the Scottish Government is actively discussing 'sub-contracting' routes to the private ferry operators.
You will also be aware of the alarming developments in the Northern Isles following the award of the ferry services to SERCO where privatisation has led to higher costs for a worse service. I am sure you will agree this is a scenario which must be avoided in our islands. Opposing these worrying developments requires strong, resolute and urgent political intervention and support.
The current issues with Caledonian MacBrayne, as well as the current Scottish Government's clear lack of engagement with island ferry related matters, mean that we must now stand together and oppose any attempt to sell off this vital public service which underpins our islands economy.
I urge you to stand up for the islands and the men and women who serve us and immediately declare your opposition, and that you will fight any attempt to privatise in whole, or part, any of Caledonian MacBrayne’s services. That is the least we owe the crew, staff and our communities.
I am sure this matter will receive your urgent attention and I look forward to your response.
Leis gach deagh dhùrachd
Alasdair”
News Release - 2nd February 2015
SCOTTISH TRANSPORT MINISTER HAS FINALLY STARTED LISTENING
Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison has welcomed the visit of the Transport and Islands Minister to Stornoway. Alasdair Morrison said:
"I’m glad the Transport & Islands Minister Derek MacKay MSP has at last come to come to the islands; responding to my call and the requests from hauliers, tourism industry leaders and the responsible councillors on Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. He finds himself in the midst of an SNP Government inspired ferry fiasco. I am pleased that he has finally started listening and that he’s agreed to allow the Isle of Lewis to serve alongside the Loch Seaforth. This will allow a proper service to be established and will determine the capacity and how the route can be developed. There has been a catalogue of failures by the Edinburgh Government and its agencies - but at least we have managed to secure the attention of the relevant Minister, and more importantly, he is now listening to us. The Scottish Government should now give a clear undertaking that he will support these welcome additional sailings with a properly structured PR campaign to try and undo the damage already done to our vital tourism industry.”
News Release - 2nd February 2015
RETIRING COUNCILLOR ARCHIE CAMPBELL
RECOGNISED BY LOCAL LABOUR PARTY
The Western Isles Labour Party has recognised the “remarkable contribution" retiring North Uist councillor Archie Campbell has made to the islands and to the Labour Party.
Speaking at the Western Isles Labour Party Burns Supper, Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison said:
“Archie Campbell's contribution to our islands and his overriding sense of public duty over six decades is remarkable. Since the day he and his wife Ada arrived on North Uist as young teachers they have immersed themselves in community activity. I, along with many others, have been fortunate to know Archie as a neighbour, a teacher and a friend. Following his retirement from the teaching profession he undertook his duties as an elected Labour councillor with the same professionalism and humour that was the hallmark of his teaching life. I look forward to enjoying Archie's company and support when I'll be canvassing in my native island over the next few months. People right across the islands wish Archie a happy, healthy and a well deserved retirement.”
News Release - 26th January 2015
CAMPAIGN TO ESTABLISH TWICE DAILY ABERDEEN - STORNOWAY
AIR SERVICE TAKES OFF AGAIN
Labour candidate, Alasdair Morrison, is reigniting the campaign to establish a twice daily Aberdeen to Stornoway air service. Alasdair Morrison said:
“This morning I had a very encouraging and useful discussion with Eastern Airway's commercial director, Kay Ryan. The airline is very keen to work with the UK Government and local agencies to examine how a package of support can be pulled together to allow them to establish a twice-daily air service between Aberdeen and Stornoway.
I have also been communicating with the office of Chief Secretary at the Treasury, Danny Alexander MP. Danny Alexander established the Regional Connectivity Fund and I know he's keen to see it benefiting passengers and airlines in all parts of the UK. We now need the UK Treasury, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and Eastern Airways to thrash out the detail and set about discussing the second Stornoway- Aberdeen flight in a positive manner. A decade ago we worked in a collegiate fashion when we established the Aberdeen service, as well as the Air Discount Scheme. I am certain if the pragmatism of that time is replicated - we could see an air link of great economic and social importance improve. Whilst I am encouraged by today's discussions - we now need the actions that follow to be equally positive".
News Release - 22nd January 2015
MORRISON URGES DANNY ALEXANDER MP
TO SUPPORT IMPROVED ABERDEEN AIR LINK
Alasdair Morrison has today written to Danny Alexander, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, to request his support in improving the vital Aberdeen to Stornoway Air Link.
Alasdair Morrison said:
“I have today called on Danny Alexander MP to ensure that any approaches made to the Regional Connectivity Fund in relation to the Stornoway to Aberdeen air route be actively encouraged and favourably received by his department. The current service, while welcome, needs to be expanded to meet the needs of those who rely on this lifeline service which is central to the economic viability of the islands.”
News Release - 21st January 2015
EMPTY RHETORIC FROM BEHIND AN EDINBURGH DESK
Alasdair Morrison has responded to Minister for Transport and the Islands after Derek Mackay MSP finally spoke by telephone to local industries affected by the current ferry fiasco.
Alasdair Morrison said:
“I am astonished that the Minister, Derek Mackay MSP, believes that creating a Task Force in the middle of January 2015 represents an adequate response to the looming crisis facing our islands. The problem began when Mr Mackay's Government refused to listen to this community and deliver a two-ferry solution. The two ferries would have cost less than the ferry farce he's now trying to rectify. This community is going to be saddled with the SNP's incompetence for at least twenty years. I only wish the Minister had issued his empty criticism in the islands and not from behind his desk in Edinburgh. He must come and meet with representatives from the industries affected and give our communities a categoric assurance that the ferry, the Isle of Lewis, will remain on the route alongside the Loch Seaforth during busy months.”
News Release - 20th January 2015
MAJORITY AT COMHAIRLE DEMAND SNP MINISTER VISIT THE ISLANDS
The majority of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar councillors support the call for Transport and Islands Minister Derek MacKay MSP to come to Lewis and explain why the SNP Government imposed one ferry on the community which is going to leave Lewis without a ferry service between Stornoway and Ullapool.
Alasdair Morrison said:
“The shambles that is the Lewis ferry debacle needs urgent attention and every right thinking person with any influence must support this campaign. It's hugely encouraging that the majority of councillors, representing every ward in the Western Isles, are willing to stand up for our islands and our immediate future. The cavalier attitude of negligent SNP Ministers and detached civil servants is now jeopardising the livelihoods of those working in tourism and many other industries. This situation requires real political intervention. For too long these islands have endured parliamentarians who think that the sum total of political representation is an offer to write an insipid letter, and pledge to speak with Ministers. Today, we see the fruits of their meaningless labours - economic carnage".
News Release - 19th January 2015
SENIOR ISLES COUNCILLOR SUPPORTS CALL FOR SNP MINISTER
TO COME TO THE ISLANDS IMMEDIATELY
Alasdair Morrison has today welcomed the support of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar as the community seeks to get Transport and Islands Minister Derek Mackay to come to Lewis and explain the current ferry debacle.
Speaking after meeting with the chair of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar's Sustainable Committee, Councillor Alasdair MacLeod along with representatives from the haulage and tourism industries Alasdair Morrison said:
“I am delighted that senior councillor, Alasdair Macleod, has added his voice to the growing number of people who want answers directly from the Scottish Government Minister for the escalating ferry debacle. We were shocked to learn from tourism industry colleagues that Caledonian MacBrayne's on-line vehicle booking system has been closed down for all dates between April 20th to the end of 2015. This situation is totally unacceptable. This SNP Government shambles is now farcical."
News Release - 19th January 2015
MSP Silence As Calls For Transport & Islands Minister Visit Intensify
Labour candidate Alasdair Morrison has today expressed dismay at the failure of the local MSP to react and join the calls for an urgent visit to Lewis by Islands Minister, Derek Mackay MSP.
Alasdair Morrison said:
“I am very disappointed that our MSP has failed to stand up for the islands and support the call to get the Minister for Transport and the Islands to come to Lewis and explain to us why the Scottish Government is going to leave the island without a ferry service from April to June. I wrote to Alasdair Allan last week expressing the urgency of this matter and he has decided to ignore my call for his support. This silence amplifies how disconnected the Edinburgh Government are from the real issues which face our communities. I call again on our MP and MSP to represent the people they are paid to serve and insist that Mr Mackay extends us the courtesy of a visit so that he can begin to understand the gravity of the situation. Major industries in the islands have already voiced concern and silence and inaction form the SNP will not satisfy them."
News Release - 15th January 2015
ISLES' LABOUR CANDIDATE THANKS SNP MP FOR SUPPORT
Labour candidate for the Western Isles, Alasdair Morrison, has tonight thanked nationalist MP Angus MacNeil for finally supporting his call to get Transport and Islands Minister Derek Mackay MSP to explain to islanders why the the process to procure a new ferry for Stornoway-Ullapool route has turned into such a debacle.
Alasdair Morrison said:
"I am pleased that Angus MacNeil has supported my bid to get the Minister Derek MacKay MSP to the islands and explain to our communities why the SNP government has presided over a process where we now have major local industries saying that no-one has been listening to them about the damaging economic implications. If Angus MacNeil was a conscientious and attentive MP he would have moved on this issue years ago. Nonetheless, I thank him for his support and I hope the Minister listens to our appeal to immediately come to the islands."
News Release - 15th January 2015
CALL FOR URGENT SUMMIT TO AVERT ISLAND ECONOMIC CRISIS
One of the most important and developing industries in the Western Isles faces a catastrophic future because of the "SNP Government's mismanagement and neglect" according to Labour's prospective Westminster candidate, Alasdair Morrison.
Speaking after meeting with representatives of the Outer Hebrides Tourism Industry Association Alasdair Morrison said:
"I was dismayed to learn that the debacle that is the Stornoway-Ullapool ferry saga has already resulted in losses for island tourism businesses. Tourism industry leaders told me that they they fear that the months of April and May will cause economic hardship for many of their businesses because of the delay and uncertainty surrounding ferry services to Lewis this year. The withdrawal of the ferry from 20 April for five weeks is shameful.
"Tourism is a hugely important industry for our islands it has developed over the years following hard work and investment by many individuals and businesses, helping to increase visitor numbers and increasing the number of people employed within the industry."
Alasdair Morrison added:
"It's clear that the SNP Government has no real appreciation of the importance of fit for purpose ferry services for our islands. If they had they wouldn't be scrambling around at the beginning of 2015 creating a Task Force to expedite the arrival of the Loch Seaforth, a ferry that should have been in service in October 2013. I have today written to the Minister for the Islands Derek Mackay asking him to immediately organise a meeting in the Islands, with tourism representatives, hauliers and others involved in business and wider community. I sincerely hope that our MSP and MP will support me in this matter. The time for politics is over - we now need immediate action."
News Release - 6th January 2015
ISLES LABOUR CANDIDATE CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE FERRY FARE REDUCTION
The SNP Government should immediately instruct the state owned company, Caledonian MacBrayne, to reduce ferry fares for all private and commercial traffic, according to Labour's prospective candidate in the Western Isles, Alasdair Morrison. Speaking in Stornoway today Alasdair Morrison said:
"With a massive reduction is the price of oil every home and business in the Western Isles should now be benefiting from cheaper ferry fares. The reduction in fuel prices is reflected at our petrol pumps and is also benefiting those buying heating fuel. The Edinburgh Government has a duty to ensure that it is working for every community in Scotland. I'd expect that the newly appointed Minister for the Islands, Derek Mackay MSP would see the reduction of ferry fares as a priority. He must act immediately to actually do something positive for our islands. This is an opportunity for Mr Mackay to show that the title Minister for the Islands actually means something and is not, as some suspect, window dressing. Cal-Mac is wholly owned by the Scottish Government and he should issue the instruction to reduce fares immediately.
Mr Morrison added: "I have today written to Flybe and Eastern Airways requesting that their fare profile also reflects the reduced cost of oil and that they should act to reduce the cost of travel also."
Advice Surgery - 1st August 2014
Rhoda Grant MSP will be hosting a public advice surgery between 12:00 - 13:00 at the Highlands and Islands (Scottish Labour) MSPs office in Church Street, Stornoway on Friday 1st August 2014.
No appointment is necessary and all constituents are welcome to attend to discuss any issues with Rhoda Grant.
If you require further information please call the office on 01851 709822
31st July 2014
A fantastic day yesterday with Anas Sarwar MP and the "Indyref Expres" Bus.
28 - 30 July 2014
Jim Murphy MP will be travelling across Scotland over the next few weeks to speak to thousands of undecided voters. He will go from Stranraer to Stornoway and from Wigtown to Wick. The tour will take place on 100 street corners, as Jim makes the positive case for Scotland staying in the UK.
Jim is taking the referendum debate to The Western Isles this week. He will be holding meetings at the following times:
Monday, 28th of July
7:30pm
Perceval Square
Stornoway
Tuesday, 29th of July
10:30am
Pier Road
Tarbert
Wednesday, 30th of July
9:00am
Outside Balivanich Post Office
Benbecula
30 June 2014
Labour MSP welcomes fuel investigation outcome -
11 June 2014
100 Meetings in 100 days - Jim Murphy MP
