Ferry disruption raises fresh concerns for island farmers

NATIONAL Farmers Union Scotland has raised concerns over continued ferry disruption and the effect it is having on farmers and crofters in Scotland’s island communities.
The union said it is in direct contact with CalMac to ensure the needs of agricultural businesses are understood and that practical steps are taken to reduce disruption during a crucial time of year.
NFU Scotland vice-president Duncan Macalister said reliable ferry services were essential for island farming businesses and warned that ongoing problems were creating serious difficulties.
He said: “For island farmers and crofters, reliable ferry services are not a luxury, they are essential infrastructure that underpins day-to-day business.
At this time of year, disruption creates immediate and very real challenges. Livestock movements are delayed, and vital supplies like feed and fertiliser risk not arriving when they are needed most.
That places significant pressure on farm businesses and raises serious animal welfare concerns.
There must be clear prioritisation for livestock movements and essential supplies like feed – this is fundamental to animal welfare and the viability of island farming businesses.”
NFU Scotland said that while efforts to restore services were recognised, consistency and reliability must be delivered in practice, particularly for agricultural businesses working to tight seasonal deadlines.
The union added that it would continue to work with ferry operators while making sure the concerns of its members were clearly communicated.