Grounding of MV Pentalina: Orkney’s MP responds

“We are fortunate this incident was not as serious as it might have been. All credit goes to the crew and emergency services for ensuring that it passed off without serious injury or worse. The Pentland Firth is well-known as a difficult stretch of water and passenger safety should never be compromised.

“The service provided by Pentland Ferries is an essential one for Orkney that is used and valued by many local people. It is essential that we have early and full answers from the Maritime Coastguard Agency, who certified the service for use just days ago. It is in no one’s interests for confidence in the service to be damaged and questions left unanswered.

“The MCA must be accountable for the decisions that they have taken so far and for what they intend to do in the future.”