Freight Services

The importance of providing the right and sufficient services for freight was highlighted, including because of the vital role freight traffic plays in supporting island economies. However, it was also suggested that services are not meeting need and demand currently.

The most frequent suggestion was that freight only ferries should be considered. There were also calls for:

• nighttime/off peak freight services;
• offering an incentive for non-perishable freight (whisky, malt, machinery, etc) to be transported on lower demand sailings; and
• more affordable freight tariffs, including making commercial hauliers eligible for RET fares.

There were suggestions relating to improving day-to-day collaboration, including operators having a member of staff dedicated specifically to dealing with freight issues.