Derek Mackay, Economy Secretary in the Scottish Government has set up a Board to take forward plans to ensure the success of the Ferguson Marine Shipyard.

The shipyard was nationalised by the Scottish Government last week. Nationalisation of Ferguson Marine Good News for Orkney’s Hydrogen Powered Ferry

The Programme Review Board is established to see the completion of the two CMAL ferries which were to serve west coast islands routes : Ardrossan to Brodick and Uig to Tarbert and Lochmaddy.

Derek Mackay said:

“Alongside the newly-appointed turnaround director who will take forward steps to stabilise the business and support the recruitment of an incoming management team, including a Chief Executive Officer, I have formed a Programme Review Board to establish a new delivery programme to ensure the completion of the CMAL ferry contracts at the lowest possible cost to the taxpayer.

“While work continues at the yard, we are working to put in place a management team which will refocus all efforts on completing this vital government contract. We are working closely with staff and the trades unions – as well as suppliers and customers – to achieve the best possible outcome for the yard.”

Orkney’s new hydrogen ferry was also to be built at the Ferguson Marine yard.