Packet's response to stranded family

The chief executive of the Steam Packet says diverting a trip from Liverpool to the Dublin route is 'not an equitable solution'.

Mark Woodward was commenting on the plight of members of the Byrne family from Ireland, who say they have been stranded on the Island after Tuesday's Dublin sailing was cancelled due to high winds.

They were over for the Manx Grand Prix and say they can't get home until Saturday.

Mr Woodward, who is in London on business, says the Byrnes were given a chance to get home via Heysham, then other carriers, at the Steam Packet's expense, and he doesn't know why they didn't accept the offer.

He admits it's unfortunate the infrequent Dublin sailing had to be cancelled, but is pointing out passengers on the Irish route represent less than five per cent of the total numbers carried by the company, and it has to prioritise its sailings accordingly.