Freight Competition Will Have Very Serious Knock Ons to Steam Packet - Says Chief Executive

Real Possibility of Job Losses and Service Cut Backs

Jobs, sailings and passenger services could be cut back at the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company after it lost two major freight contracts.

It follows the launch of a new daily freight service between Douglas and Liverpool by rival company Mezeron, who Tesco and Shoprite are now using instead.

At the peak season over 500 Manx people are employed by the Steam Packet, with 300 during the winter.

Chief Executive Mark Woodward said the problems lie with the Government not upholding their mutual user agreement with the Steam Packet, and safeguarding them against freight competition on the Island.

He said if not rectified there could be very serious problems for the Steam Packet.

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