Two overbudget and delayed ferries have “robbed taxpayers,” according to Labour peer Lord Robertson. The Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa vessels were contracted to Ferguson shipyard by government-owned procurement agency CMAL to be built for CalMac. The initial contract was valued at £97 million but is expected to total at £360 million when completed. Scottish government stated that its priority is to complete the ships, maintain the shipyard’s future, and support island communities.
Robertson, the former defense secretary, called the attempt to build these fleets a “fiasco.” He said that “taxpayers are being robbed here” and that “these will probably be the most expensive ferries in the world.” Robertson criticized the Scottish government’s recent treatment of island communities, stating that Scotland’s rural and island base has been “relegated and forgotten” and that such areas have been “limited and compromised.” He declared they should be given more autonomy over local services.
Robertson also criticized CalMac and its planned contract from the Clyde and Hebrides without being placed in the usual bidding process for direct awards. He stated that the direct grant was wrong, expensive, and allowed the current business model to continue. CalMac’s CEO, Robbie Drummond, claimed that the addition of six major and ten smaller vessels would enhance the network’s ability and resilience, supporting islanders that rely on its services.
The Scottish government commented that it is “deeply disappointed” with the cost increases and delays in the project. They reaffirmed their principal objectives to complete these ferries, maintain job security for the shipyard workers, and support island communities’ needs that depend on this type of vessel daily
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