Monday, 6 July 2015
First ferry after the strike
Solstice walk
Each year, at the time of the summer solstice, I take a walk around Stornoway after sunset - which occurs around 10.35pm. The dull weather of late has meant that I am five days late this year, but that does not make much of a difference.
Ferry strike - 26 June
Today, there is a strike on most Calmac ferry services. All sailings to and from the Western Isles are cancelled. The gates to the ferry terminal are chained shut, and the terminal at Ullapool is reportedly picketed by trades union activists. The tourism trade is affected by cancellations, or having to put up people for longer than initially planned. The strike was called as the trades union RMT is concerned about the future. The Scottish Government has put out to tender all 26 routes on which Calmac ferries currently ply, and there is another company seeking to take over the franchise. This leads to uncertainty over pay, conditions, pensions and the routes themselves. Whilst acknowledging the inconvenience of the stoppage and its impact on the important tourism sector, I broadly support the strike. I would probably have toned down my support had I required ferry travel today.
Thursday 25 June
Cruiseliner HanseaticTomorrow, 26 June, there will be a strike on most Calmac ferries. In preparation for that, there were some private cars going off on the freight sailing at 10.30pm.
Urban rabbit near Shell Street
Cruiseliner Island Sky
Monday 22 June
Cruiseliner Magellan; meeting the ferry in pic #2
Windturbine blade on transporter
Bus unloading from a low-loader
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