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Macneil declares his stance on Sunday ferries to Lewis 1/6/09
Isles MP Angus Macneil has responded to the LDOS’ challenge to declare his position on the impending launch of a regular Sunday ferry into Lewis
Mr MacNeil said: "My position on Sunday sailings to Lewis is quite nuanced on this complex argument not given to easy slogans or one word answers.
“At the outset I should say that I have had only one representation to my office on this issue since CalMac announced their consultation and that request was in favour of Sunday sailings to and from Stornoway."
"During summer 1990, as a 20 year old, I worked 68 hours a week at the Holm Jetty with Edmund Nuttall Ltd with the only day off being Sunday.
“Thus, each Sunday afternoon I used to be very grateful for Sunday as it was in Lewis.
"However, I have at times on a Sunday used ferries, often because no Saturday or
Monday ferry was available -
“It would be hypocritical of me to pretend otherwise. I have also been fortunate in not needing, due to illness or death, to use the Sound of Harris ferry on a Sunday and have avoided more casual use out of respect for my many constituents for whom Sunday is a very special day.
"Personally, like many people, I find this a difficult issue as I have constituents, good friends and acquaintances who want to protect the Lord's Day as being the special relaxed family day it actually is for many in Lewis whether or not they are religious who those who want Sunday sailings to Lewis for very practical reasons.
"In short, if there is one issue that is not best served by mega-
“If they do, I would be happy to meet with the Lord's Day Observance Society or any other group who feels that it might be useful to talk about the CalMac consultation."