Breiðafjörður municipalities protest ferry reassignment

Municipalities along Breiðafjörður are voicing strong opposition and protest against the Ministry of Infrastructure's decision to temporarily reassign the Breiðafjarðarferjan Baldur to service the Westman Islands. Vesturbyggð, Reykhólahreppur, and Stykkishólmur issued a joint statement arguing that the ministry lacks the authority to use Baldur for Westman Islands routes under the current circumstances. According to regulations, Baldur can only serve the Westman Islands as a backup for Herjólfur when Herjólfur is in dry dock or otherwise inoperable. The ministry stated Baldur would sail alongside Herjólfur for the first few days to meet increased demand, including for sporting events. However, the municipalities contend this does not align with the conditions under which Baldur is designated as a backup vessel. They emphasize Baldur's critical role in connecting the Westfjords and West Iceland, and its function as a lifeline for Flatey Island. The ferry Særún, intended to replace Baldur, is deemed incapable of handling the necessary transport of goods, catches, and waste containers to and from Flatey. The municipalities further criticize the lack of consultation regarding the impact of this decision and the absence of practical solutions to ensure adequate service levels during Baldur's absence. They urge the ministry and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration to confirm that the contractual terms for Baldur's use as Herjólfur's backup will be upheld, except in cases of dry docking or inoperability. They also stress the importance of respecting the established framework for Baldur's role in the Breiðafjörður region to guarantee the safety, service, and transportation needs of the local communities.