This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Air fares fall in Highlands and Islands
29/03/2004
Tenders for the air routes between Glasgow and Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra have been awarded on the basis that fares will be up to 30% cheaper than they were in the past.
The Highlands and Islands Convention on Arran has been told that the award honours a pledge he made to rural communities that the Scottish government would take action to ensure lower cost air travel in the region.
The routes will be operated by Loganair with the lower fare service commencing on July 1.
First Minister Jack McConnell said:
"This announcement is an important one. It sends out a clear signal that we are determined to address the issue of high air fares for local people and visitors who travel on these routes. It says that we will make decisions and take action that immediately benefits this country.
"Because a successful and vibrant Highlands and Islands depends on having strong communities and a dynamic tourism industry. If we grow tourism, we grow the region. If we grow the region, we help grow Scotland.
"Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. We have a unique product to offer. Today's announcement will allow this product to be experienced by many more people."
Transport Minister, Nicol Stephen, told the convention:
"These routes are lifelines for Campbeltown, Tiree and Barra. They connect people to public services and businesses to their markets, helping communities to survive and thrive.
"We are determined to ensure that costs are not a barrier to travel to and from Scotland's remote and island communities. By reducing air fares, we can help them retain more of their people and attract more visitors."
The three routes supported by the Executive could not be provided on a commercial basis. Public Service Obligations (PSOs) have been in effect on the services between Glasgow-Tiree and Glasgow Barra since 1994 - and Glasgow - Cambeltown since 1996. Competitive bids were sought on an EU-wide basis and under EC regulation 2408/92.