Minister says SPC boss seeking to sway public opinion
The Island’s Infrastructure Minister says he understands the Steam Packet Company’s worries about its future – but says he won’t be swayed by public statements.
Phil Gawne MHK spoke out after the Steam Packet’s chief executive Mark Woodward said it was becoming harder to charter extra vessels for TT, made worse by uncertainty surrounding the linkspan user agreement.
He said deploying additional freight and passenger ferries required a major financial commitment - while the company remains uncertain about its future serving regular routes to and from the Island.
The Department of Infrastructure is currently talking to the ferry firm about the user agreement, which could be extended for five years from 2021.
And Mr Gawne says he suspects that’s why the company has spoken out about the issue now:
Meningitis B vaccination scheme to be rolled out on-Island
Balthane Roundabout plans on hold until 2027/28 as costs rise
Port St Mary lifeboat launched to rescue stricken fishing vessel
Enquiries ongoing after 'shotgun-like sound' heard near Police Headquarters
MHK 'frustrated' at pace of progress over cigarettes and vaping products