Treasury Minister Alex Allinson has called the Ben my Chree a valuable part of the Steam Packet fleet.
He made the comments this week in the House of Keys when he faced questions over the vessel's use.
Dr Allinson revealed the company's backup ferry made six trips in April.
And he said although it was now more than a quarter of a century old, it was still a useful asset:
Manx Utilities hopes sewer cleaning means end of odour problems
Manx Utilities says it hopes the completion of cleaning works will mark the end of sewage odours on an estate in the West of the Island.
What's being done to tackle crash blackspots?
What's being done to tackle accident blackspots on the Island's roads?
New TT schedule will be reviewed on yearly basis
The new TT schedule will be reviewed each year as part of an existing procedure, according to the enterprise minister.
No successful driving theory test appeals in past 10 years
No one has successfully appealed the result of a driving theory test in the past 10 years.
Steam Packet announces tomorrow morning's sailings will go on time
The Steam Packet's announced the Manxman's sailings tomorrow morning, Friday, October 31 will depart as scheduled, having previously been in doubt.
Firefighter to raise money by wearing full gear in fitness competition
An Island firefighter will be taking part in a fitness competition whilst wearing full gear, including breathing apparatus and oxygen tank.
How much has the Department of Infrastructure claimed for property damage?
How many times has the Department of Infrastructure claimed money from others for property damage?
Visa fraudster convicted in Isle of Man immigration scam
The Department of Home Affairs has welcomed the conviction of 25-year-old Sagar Joon.
