THE Scottish Government has been urged to take over responsibility for the troubled Gourock to Kilcreggan ferry service during a Scottish Parliament debate yesterday.

Scottish Labour MSP Jackie Baillie warned Transport Minister Humza Yousaf that the patience of local ferry passengers is running out after several months of disruption and cancellations.

The Scottish Government agreed in principle to take over responsibility for the route from Strathclyde Partnership for Transport before the last elections, but the transfer process has been hit by delays.

Jackie, pictured here with campaigners, said: “Passengers use the ferry to get to work, college or university and access health services based predominantly in hospitals south of the Clyde.

“I have spoken to constituents who have missed job opportunities because they couldn’t get to their interview, others who have been disciplined because of their timekeeping and others who have given up on the ferry completely and moved out of the area.

“We have put up with this for seven months and we are not prepared to put up with this for any longer.

"Para Handy would be better than this shambles.

“I urge the Scottish Government and SPT to get beyond the reassurances and take action, and do it now.”