Accountability

In relation to how communities could be provided with a stronger role in providing input on ferries related decisions, it was noted that there are already a number of routes through which people can be involved, including Ferry Committees and User Groups. However, there were also some concerns, including that the current Ferry Committees appear to be having limited impact.

More generally, it was thought that community views are not given sufficient weight, and that previous engagement or consultation does not appear to have led to change or to have affected outcomes, with no genuine attempt to take account of service user views. A frequently made point was that the Operator and other key stakeholders need to both listen to the views of communities and also act on their suggestions. There were also calls for greater transparency, including through an improved communication style, along with a willingness to listen to, and make changes in response to, community concerns.

A majority of respondents – 63% of those who answered the question – did not think the Ferries Community Board is representative of island populations. However, a small majority of organisations (54% of those who answered) thought it is representative. Although the challenges inherent in representing such a diverse range of communities and interests were recognised, there were nevertheless concerns that the geographical spread of communities represented is uneven.

A majority of respondents – 70% of those who answered the question – did not think the Ferries Community Board reflects their interest for the next contract. The Ferries Community Board was seen as having limited influence on ferry services, while some simply noted that they did not know enough about the Board and its workings to make a judgement about whether it would reflect their interests.

A majority of respondents – 92% of those who answered the question – thought communities should have greater say in the development of timetables so they suit the needs of ferry users. A stronger say for communities was seen as crucial to ensuring that timetables better meet the needs of residents and businesses, with respondents suggesting that working together and maintaining an open dialogue would benefit both communities and the Operator, helping to ensure that timetable development is more transparent.