Islanders' cut-price ferry extended 02 | 09 | 2010

RESIDENTS OF the Western Isles have welcomed the decision by the Scottish Government to continue a scheme which ensures cheaper ferry fares for all routes to the mainland for a further year.

Introduced in 2008, Road Equivalent Tariff (RET) — which has reduced ferry fares by up to half for users. — was due to end next April; it will now be extended until spring 2012.

Extending this pilot scheme will bring further opportunities for the island communities and businesses to maximise the benefits of this scheme," transport minister Stewart Stevenson said. "By continuing this scheme for a further year, we can continue to examine ways of delivering a longer-term, fairer, cheaper system for every ferry user."

The decision to extend the scheme was also welcomed by the islanders, including Bill Lewis, chairman of Co Chomunn na Hearadh, which runs Clachan Stores in Leverburgh, Harris.

"Last year sales were up 25% since the introduction of RET," he explained, "and this year they are up another 10%. There is no doubt RET has had a significant impact on visitor numbers to the islands coming from Britain and all over the continent."