THE Scottish government has changed rules around quarantine meaning seafarers no longer have to isolate for 14 days when returning to Scotland for more than 14 days of leave.
The move has been welcomed by the UK Chamber of Shipping that recently wrote to the Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity in the Scottish government Michael Matheson, seeking urgent action to stop Scottish seafarers being unfairly penalised by the current quarantine restrictions.
Transport Scotland has now confirmed that the new provision aligns with the “seamen and masters” exemptions contained in the corresponding regulations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It has also confirmed those who are currently self-isolating no longer need to do so.
Welcoming the decision, UK Chamber of Shipping policy director Tim Springett said, “As an organisation we have worked closely with both the UK and Scottish governments on the new quarantine rules”.
“However during the implementation phase it became clear there were fundamental issues which are affecting our members and their employees,” Mr Springett said.
“We are pleased the Scottish government listened and agreed to our representation and has quickly amended the regulations. This now means Scottish seafarers are under the same rules as their counterparts operating across the UK.”
