Northern Isles Lifeline Ferry Service

Irish Continental Group plc is pleased to have been chosen as one of three companies shortlisted to submit proposals to the Scottish Executive by November next for the operation of the Northern Isles ferry service linking Orkney, Shetland and the Scottish mainland.

The company is currently evaluating the many aspects of the operation which will be crucial to the success of its tender and has commenced consultations with all of the key interest groups known to it. It has also received considerable input from individuals and organisations who have specific concerns and ideas about the existing service. In this regard, a visit to the islands has already taken place with further visits already planned as part of the pre-tender familiarisation process.

Groups and individuals who may wish to have their views taken into account as part of this consultation process are invited to submit their interest to Irish Continental Group plc by e-mail to NorthernIslesSubmissions@icg.ie or by post to Mr. Niall O’Connor, Irish Continental Group plc, Alexander Road, Dublin 1.

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25th August 2005