The Scottish Government has decided to amend regulations so Scottish seafarers no longer have to isolate for 14-days when returning to Scotland for more than 14 days of leave.
The move follows a letter by the UK Chamber of Shipping to the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity in the Scottish Government, Michael Matheson MSP, last week, seeking urgent action to stop unfair penalization of Scottish seafarers.
In response, 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.
Therefore, “seamen and masters” will no longer be required to self-isolate for 14 days if they are returning to Scotland for more than 14 days of leave.
Additionally, Transport Scotland confirmed those who are currently self-isolating no longer need to do so.
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,
…said UK Chamber of Shipping Policy Director Tim Springett.
