Scottish Government-owned operator, Calmac, has published a priority list for allocation of spaces on boats this summer.

The list puts livestock within the priority group, a fact welcomed by farmers and crofters. Dingwall auctioneer, Daniel Urquhart, who runs a number of sales on the Outer Hebrides, said: “I am glad livestock are on the list. We book our places on the boats for the sales in the back end in spring and get a good service as long as you give Calmac enough time.”

NFU Scotland welcomed the priority list as a positive move, but was still concerned about the service to the islands this summer.

Regional manager for Argyll and the Islands, Lauren Worrell, said: “For the majority of our island members in the region, the deterioration in lifeline ferry services has been a growing issue for a considerable time.

READ MORE: Island fury as ferry report shows bonuses paid to executives

"While we will study it in detail, CalMac’s Island Priority List looks like a positive and welcome response to supporting those island farmers and crofters reliant on a ferry service for their businesses and we would look to CalMac to quickly put the plan in place.

“Our members will be relieved that haulage for livestock, animal feed and vet supplies are noted on the priority list as the transport of all of these is essential if our famers and crofters are to continue working in what is an increasingly difficult economic situation.

“On livestock transport alone, we are aware of some who have yet to secure a ferry slot to get ewe hoggs back onto islands from wintering and anxiety is increasing as to what the autumn might hold for getting calves and lambs off the islands for sales.

"We will continue to work with CalMac and engage with members to try and ensure that the list works and a practical approach is taken for the challenging times ahead,” she said.

Group secretary, Jake Sales, who has NFU Scotland offices in Portree and Stornoway, said: “For the Western Isles members, ferry disruption has been extreme with the Uig/Lochmaddy/Tarbert triangle a nightmare. Quite clearly the fleet is antiquated.

"We had hauliers unable to travel via Uig last week trying to reset to go from Ullapool. That is an additional road journey of many hours even on the best day. While a priority list is welcome, the lack of attention to the area by CalMac and Scottish Government also needs to be addressed.”