A TAXPAYER-owned ferry firm could face ruin if a major contract slips into private hands, it was warned.
CalMac’s annual accounts revealed “material uncertainty” over its future.
Glen Sannox, delivered by Ferguson Marine, entered service seven years late in January[/caption]
The fears come as Nats weigh up if they are legally allowed to avoid a bidding war by handing the Clyde and Hebrides services deal directly to CalMac.
Auditors told ministers: “The renewal of the contract represents a material uncertainty that may cast significant doubt on the company’s ability to continue as a going concern.”
Accounts revealed sailings were down two per cent last year while “technical and weather-related cancellations” were up 54 per cent.
Customers have blasted last-minute delays and ministers have spent millions chartering replacement ferries to cover repairs to the ageing fleet.
Four ferries being built in Turkey have been delayed.
Glen Sannox, delivered by Ferguson Marine, entered service seven years late in January.
Glen Rosa is still awaited.
Scottish Tory transport spokeswoman Sue Webber said islanders deserve clarity over CalMac.
Transport Scotland said there are “no significant impediments to direct award” and “approval in the summer is achievable”.
CalMac declined comment.
CalMac’s annual accounts revealed “material uncertainty” over its future[/caption]
