13 July, 2007

NORTHLINK FERRIES are warning customers to not go over board with alcohol when travelling on their vessels and drunk people will not be allowed to travel.

The company is putting its staff through the ‘Servewise’ training course to teach them about licensing laws, the effects of alcohol on customers and staff responsibilities when serving alcohol.

The course has been delivered by Anne Hill from Orkney College to all relevant workers onboard the northern isles vessels Hjaltland, Hrossey and Hamnavoe.

NorthLink’s commercial director Gareth Crichton said: “We don’t want to be reactionary or overstate the issue but alcohol-related incidents do occur on our ferries from time to time, as they do up and down the country.

“We are determined that, for the safety and comfort of our customers and staff, our crew are provided with knowledge and skills that enable them to deal with any incidents that may arise effectively and professionally.

“We have made it clear that passengers should not expect to board our vessels if they are unfit to do so through drink.

“It is not about us preaching to people, but about ensuring a safe and secure passage for customers and staff alike.”