THE Manx Government has no intention of nationalising or subsidising the Steam Packet,
Chief Minister Tony Brown told Tynwald.

Unions and Steam Packet staff staged a protest outside the Legislative Buildings on Tuesday calling for the government to intervene to ‘save the island’s lifeline’.

Steam Packet boss Mark Woodward had warned that services could be cut and fares could rise following the launch of cargo freight competition in the shape of Mezeron’s new container service to Liverpool.

In Tynwald, Mr Brown, replying to a question from Graham Cregeen MHK (Malew and Santon), insisted: ‘The Council of Ministers feel that it would be inappropriate to recommend paying a subsidy to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.’

David Cannan MHK (Michael) said that, since 1984, the ferry operator had become an investment vehicle for overseas ownership.

"Would it not be more appropriate for serious discussion to be given now for a return to Manx – island – control of the Steam Packet Company and to have a settled future."


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