And fears have been expressed that French trade unions may be about to take retaliatory action against Jersey commercial shipping as a result of the seizure of the ship.Talks were taking place in Jersey and France today between lawyers for both Jersey’s Harbours and Airport Committee and Emeraude, to try to reach an agreement that will allow the vessel to be released to sail again.The car ferry was seized by the Viscount’s department on Monday evening amid claims that about £300,000 in unpaid harbour dues were outstanding.
Last week, Emeraude applied to a French court for bankruptcy protection and was given until 21 December to get its financial affairs in order.
It is reported to have debts of about four million eurosMeanwhile, a public meeting is being held at the Albert Pier this evening by a group calling itself ‘Save Emeraude’.
The meeting is scheduled to start at 6 pm.
It was also revealed that the French authorities impounded Solidor V in St Malo last year because Emeraude had failed to pay its harbour dues there.The boat was released shortly afterwards when the ferry company produced the money owed.
