Steam Packet "considers options"

Company responds to minister's Tynwald statement

The Steam Packet Company says it’s considering its next move after Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne outlined options for future sea services.

In a statement during last month’s Tynwald sitting, Mr Gawne revealed there were three choices as his department considered what do to next about the linkspan user agreement.

He said a tender process could start in 2022 for a new operator to take over in 2026, the user agreement could be ended early and new tender sought, or the government could sign a new deal with the Steam Packet Company.

Today, the company said it had “carefully considered” Mr Gawne’s statement and is now developing a proposal.

It says it will approach the department with a revised framework for guaranteeing future services for residents, visitors, businesses and the local economy.

And the Steam Packet says it will take note of a proposed public consultation on the issue.

But it says it won't be commenting further on the matter at present.