Government 'exploring strategies to minimise disruptions' for Steam Packet passengers

A 'series of regular updates to follow'

The Treasury has issued an update following a meeting held this morning between its minister, the chief minister and Steam Packet bosses.

The emergency meeting was held following the announcement the Manxman will operate on a contingency schedule, with one daily sailing for the next two weeks.

It's as the vessel will be 'undermanned' due to a rostered officer having to unexpectedly take leave for personal reasons.

A spokesperson for the Treasury says the discussion today centred on 'gaining further insights into the current industrial dispute and exploring strategies to minimise disruptions to passenger services and to freight deliveries'.

They confirmed 'a series of regular updates' will follow, and proposed measures will be shared and discussed with the Council of Ministers on Thursday.

That statement in full: "Today, the Chief Minister and Treasury Minister had a meeting with the Chair and Managing Director of the Steam Packet Company.

"The discussion centred on gaining further insights into the current industrial dispute and exploring strategies to minimise disruptions to passenger services and to freight deliveries.

"A series of regular updates will follow to keep abreast of ongoing developments and understand the approach taken to mitigate any potential passenger disruptions.

"The next steps and proposed measures will be shared and discussed with the Council of Ministers on Thursday, when a further update will be provided.”