The current Scottish Executive consultation on proposals for tendering Clyde and Hebrides lifeline ferry services is a 'massive' opportunity for communities and businesses on the west coast, according to Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The enterprise agency is currently preparing its response to the consultation, which closes at the end of this month, and will be making a series of recommendations for further developing the west coast ferry services.  The six-point plan can be summarised as follows:

* The introduction of a Young Persons Ferry Card for 16-25 year-olds to offer cheaper travel to younger people, with further fare reductions for those under 16.

* Timetabling that will allow schoolchildren to return home at weekends.

* Later last sailings than at present

* More frequent sailings on many routes, particularly during the winter months.

* Extension of the summer timetable to run from the Saturday before Easter or the first of April (whichever is earlier) until 31st October, with additional sailings during the festive period.

* The establishment of a Highlands and Islands Ferry Service Route Development Fund to support innovation and service improvements and ensure continuing development of the services.

HIE' submission will also call for more integrated planning between ferry and air and highlight the need for provision for Gaelic to be specified clearly in the tender document rather than left to bidders' discretion.

HIE chairman Dr. Jim Hunter, said:  "There has been some very striking social and economic progress, particularly in much of mainland Highland and on Skye, with increased population and reduced unemployment.  It is a priority for us to extend this progress to the rest of the Highlands and Islands and that is what our response to this consultation is focused on.
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"We fully recognise the extremely valuable service presently provided by ferry operators and welcome recent investment in vessels and shore facilities.  If, however, we are to achieve the maximum benefits from this investment then greater utilisation of the infrastructure, in terms of more frequent sailings, is essential.

"The contract offers the opportunity to link service provision with wider development objectives, particularly strengthening communities, one of HIE's core aims.  One of the main issues facing west coast communities is the need to retain families and young people. This is why we are calling for cheaper travel for these groups and getting schoolchildren home at the weekend. In addition, further development of tourism will be supported by a longer summer season and more sailings over the festive period.  More frequent sailings will also improve the competitiveness of island-based manufacturers and producers by offering greater opportunities for freight movements"

Dr Hunter urged residents, organisations and businesses on the west coast to participate in the consultation exercise to ensure that ferry services meet the needs of the communities served.  "A valuable addition in this regard would be the location of the VESCO, the company that will lease vessels to the successful bidder, in one of our island communities".