Question reference: S5W-33210
- Asked by: Colin Smyth, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 13 November 2020
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Current status: Answered by Paul Wheelhouse on 9 December 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what analysis it has carried out of the recent COVID-19 outbreak that was linked with the MV Isle of Lewis, including how this has impacted on the (a) seafarers affected, (b) the onboard crew when the positive tests were returned, (c) the relief crew and (d) passengers.
Answer
The Scottish Government has undertaken no specific analysis of the recent Covid-19 outbreak linked to the MV Isle of Lewis. However, Transport Scotland has maintained regular contact with CalMac. It remains the priority of CalMac to ensure the safety of passengers and crew by implementing Scottish Government guidelines regarding Covid-19.
CalMac remain in contact with the crew that tested positive for Covid-19 providing support as required.
NHS Scotland Test and Protect assisted with identifying which additional crew members required to self-isolate, the engineering crew did not need to self-isolate as they had been working as an independent bubble.
For those crew requiring to self-isolate, once their isolation period ends CalMac have advised they will fall back into their existing work rotations. For those who were not required to self-isolate, following the deep cleaning of the vessel they continued with their work rotation.
For CalMac staff and passengers who are concerned that they have come into contact with Coronavirus, the Test & Protect system will advise them if they require to self-isolate and if a Coronavirus test is required.
The relief crew did not recommence service on the MV Isle of Lewis until CalMac had arranged for the vessel to be deep cleaned.