Nautilus members expected to return ballot papers by 18 December
In less than a week the results of a ballot of Steam Packet officers, who belong to the maritime trade union Nautilus will become known.
The exchanges between the Manx ferry company and the union seem to suggest an agreement by the cut-off date on 1 January is unlikely.
The union predicts members will reject the proposed live on-board terms.
As a result, the Island's main life line service could see walkouts being staged.
Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson says what the union is demanding is unclear:
Nautilus says it's never been about the finances but rather the work-life balance which they think is being eroded under the new conditions.
Senior National Organiser Garry Elliot:
You can listen to Manx Radio's John Moss' report in full here:
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