NorthLink Ferries supports Orkney fishermen’s safety initiative

Orkney’s fishermen are set to benefit from a vital new initiative, thanks to a partnership between Orkney Fisheries and NorthLink Ferries.

All fishermen across the islands will now be able to have their lifejackets, which were issued last year by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation and Scottish government in an effort to promote greater safety among the small boat fleet, shipped by NorthLink Ferries to Shetland for necessary servicing.

The arrangement between the ferry operator and Orkney Fisheries will allow fishermen to drop off their lifejackets at NorthLink Ferries’ Kiln Corner office in Kirkwall, where they will then be taken to Shetland. The fishermen will then be able to collect their serviced lifejackets from Kiln Corner a short time later.

Speaking of the partnership, Kris Bevan, Freight Manager at NorthLink Ferries, said: “We are extremely pleased to be working closely with Orkney Fisheries to provide this vital service to fishermen across Orkney.

“Servicing of lifejackets is important in guaranteeing the safety of our local fishermen and, with no suitable servicing facilities available in Orkney, we are very happy to ensure that the fishermen have access to this scheme.”

Fiona Matheson, Secretary to Orkney Fisheries, added: “The provision of the service from NorthLink Ferries is greatly welcomed and essential in ensuring that our local fishermen have their lifejackets serviced on a regular basis.

“We look forward to working closely with the ferry operator on this partnership and ensuring the safety of Orkney’s fishermen while they work.”

The new initiative is available for all local fishermen in Orkney free of charge. Jackets will be collected by DH Marine in Lerwick – the approved Mullion Agent – where a charge for the service will apply. For more information, please contact Fiona Matheson at Orkney Fisheries at orkneyfisheries@btconnect.com