“Calmac have been in touch to update us about a further delay to the return of MV Hebrides. During this year’s overhaul, the visor was removed from the vessel, and a significant amount of remedial work was undertaken.

The visor was reinstalled and tested as per Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) procedures. On sea trials this afternoon, an issue was identified with the visor seal which will require an OEM adjustment.

The OEM will be onsite by noon tomorrow (Saturday).

Deployment plans for routes impacted by MV Hebrides’ delay exiting dock have been published up until today, and we’re now extending these plans until Tuesday 5 May.

This means:

•           MV Clansman remains on Little Minch

•           MV Isle of Mull remains on Oban-Coll/Tiree/Colonsay

•           MV Coruisk remains on Oban-Craignure alongside MV Loch Frisa

•           A passenger charter remains in place on Mallaig-Armadale.

I am aware of an urgent requirement for fuel on Tiree, and we are continuing to work on plans to get this to the island.

I am sorry for the continued disruption to you all through this period and I’ll provide updates as soon as possible.”