Na h-Eileanan an Ian SNP MP Angus MacNeil has called for an urgent meeting of NHS Western Isles, Loganair, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, politicians, and other affected parties to discuss the huge problem that has been created by Loganair suspending services from Inverness to Stornoway and Benbecula.

Loganair is suspending services from Inverness to Stornoway and Benbecula, from 17th March, for a period of six weeks.

NHS Western Isles’ analysis of patient appointments and schedules indicates that around 230 patients, who require to travel to Inverness for medical appointments, could potentially be affected.

Up to an additional 270 patients who were scheduled to attend an appointment on-island with a visiting consultant could potentially also still be affected by the suspension of flights.

Commenting Mr MacNeil said:

“The numbers of people affected released by NHS Western Isles today are huge.  Hundreds of people, some with life-critical care considerations will be affected by the suspension of these flights.

“Loganair, while a private company, has also been supported by the community, so I think that urgent dialogue going forward is the best way.”

ENDS