Ferry use buoyant thanks to subsidy

 
Scotland’s road equivalent tariff (RET) pilot has boosted vehicles using ferry services in the Western Isles by almost one-quarter (23%), it has been revealed.


The Scottish Government has reported that since the scheme to subsidise ferry crossings was launched in October 2008, the number of passengers on board has also gone up by 14%. First minister, Alex Salmond, said the positive early signs and economic benefits would be closely monitored throughout the pilot, until its completion in 2011.


‘We launched the RET pilot to consider the most effective and sustainable way to improve the affordability of service of ferries to our islands. Since the launch of the pilot last year, we have seen a significant increase in the number of visitors.’

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