The Scottish Government has been urged to take over responsibility for the troubled Gourock -; Kilcreggan Ferry Service in a Scottish Parliament debate today led by Jackie Baillie MSP.

The Scottish Labour MSP warned the Transport Minister that the patience of local ferry passengers is running out after several months of disruption and cancellations.

The Scottish Government agreed in principle to take over responsibility for the route from Strathclyde Partnership for Transport before the last elections but the transfer process has been hit by delays.

Jackie said:

“Passengers use the ferry to get to work, college or university and access health services based predominantly in hospitals south of the Clyde. The impact of the disruption on their daily lives cannot be underestimated.

“I have spoken to constituents who have missed job opportunities because they couldn’t get to their interview, others who have been disciplined because of their timekeeping and others who have given up on the ferry completely and moved out of the area.

“The impact on my constituents and those from across the river is huge. We have been patient but my community is not patient anymore. We have put up with this for 7 months and we are not prepared to put up with this for any longer. Para Handy would be better than this shambles.

“I urge the Scottish Government and SPT to get beyond the reassurances and take action, and do it now