LISTEN: Rathlin ferry cancelled amid local tension over easing of lockdown on island

by Q Radio News

For the second day running the 9am sailing from Rathlin Island to Ballycastle has been cancelled amid local tension over the easing of lockdown restrictions on the island.

The ferry company currently operates a policy of not carrying passengers to or from the island unless in an emergency, in a bid to halt the spread of Coronavirus.

Police say they travelled to the island this morning following an incident.

One man was spoken to by officers and a file will be submitted to the Public Prosecution Service.

Bertie Currie from the island has been speaking to Q Radio, following the incident. 

Mr Currie said, "My journey was essential but not an emergency. 

"i had only enough provisions to do me for about 8 weeks. Mother Hubbard's cupboards were bare.

"I challenged them while they were over to see me. They said we are charging you with obstruction. 

"I said, 'how can you do that, it is a public ferry?' Oh no, they informed it was a private ferry. 

"So I had to take their obstruction, so they charged me."

(The Rathlin Island ferry docked at Ballycastle yesterday evening following an incident on the island - Pics McAuley Multimedia)