Transport
Arrow Reports ‘Premature’
Brian Thomson was talking after the Manx rumour mill went into overdrive about the report from BBC Guernsey.
Photo by Callum Staley (CJS Photography)
Reports from the Channel Islands that the Arrow could be made available to Jersey and Guernsey are ‘premature’ the boss of the Steam Packet has said.
Brian Thomson was talking after the Manx rumour mill went into overdrive about the report from BBC Guernsey.
The Beeb had reported that the Arrow ‘has been made available for the States of Guernsey and Jersey for contingency planning purposes’.
However, as this came at the same time as the Steam Packet announced that the Arrow would be operating nighttime freight services for the next two weeks as the industrial action, combined with staff absence, means the Manxman is unable to carry out the sailings.
Mr Thomson said: ‘I think that report is premature because I would definitely know if that was the case and I can assure you she is not on her way to Guernsey.’
The news from the Channel Islands comes amidst a challenging time for Condor Ferries, which has a contract to run services to the islands.
However, there has been chatter in the Channel that the islands could look to run their own services via a charter agreement if Condor was to be unable to continue services.
Both governments told the BBC: ‘We are aware of the MV Arrow, given its past role serving as a contingency vessel for Condor from time to time.’
A States of Guernsey spokesperson added: ‘We have a memorandum of understanding with Condor Ferries for sea connectivity and remain vigilant in safeguarding our supply chain.’
The Government of Jersey added: ‘We are in contract with Condor Ferries for sea connectivity, whilst remaining vigilant in safeguarding our supply chain against a wide range of risks.’
