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Minister denies holding back Steam Packet rival

Sea Alliance criticisms unwarranted

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne denies his department prevented a prospective Steam Packet rival.

Last week, Sea Alliance boss Captain Kurt Buchholz criticised government requests for 'expressions of interest' to find a future for sea services.

He added that the Department of Infrastructure had to take some responsibility for the failure of Ellan Vannin Line, which hoped to set up a rival service.

The Steam Packet has put forward plans to invest £170 million into Isle of Man ferry services but Captain Buchholz says it'll be financed by higher debt.

But Mr Gawne explains says the criticisms aren't warranted:

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