Unions To Meet With MHK's Today To Discuss Future Of Steam Packet

The unions representing Steam Packet workers will hold a crunch meeting with MHK’s and MLC’s today to discuss the future of the company.

Due to the emergence of Mezeron as a real competitor to the Steam Packet’s freight operation there is an increasing likelihood that major cut backs will need to be made to make up the money deficit by the long running on Island shipping company.

It’s the opinion of the unions that the Manx Government should have done more to safeguard the Steam Packet against this competition.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne has said he feels the problems lie with the Steam Packet’s significant debts, an opinion shared by some of his fellow MHKs.

The workers have asked the politicians to consider what the impact would be on the Island’s tourism if the Steam Packet had to reduce services, they’re also asking them to think about the economic impact it would have to the Government.

Spokesman for the Nautilus Union Chris Bowen has said his colleagues are very nervous about the future of their jobs, and they want answers soon.

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