A BID from DFDS to operate an inter-island ferry service using its freight and passenger vessel Stena Vinga has failed to gain the green light from Sarnian politicians.
In a statement yesterday, Guernsey’s government said its Economic Development Committee “carefully considered” the Danish ferry firm’s proposal, which would have involved an evening arrival on Fridays returning to Jersey late afternoon on Mondays.
Calls for enhanced inter-island links gathered strength last year amid scrutiny over the frequency of ferry services between Jersey and Guernsey, which also led to the formation of a working group.
However, Guernsey’s Economic Development Committee concluded that it was “unable to approve the proposal” from DFDS in its current form.
“The proposed schedule presents material operational and resourcing challenges to Guernsey Ports and Customs and Immigration,” the statement continued.
“The majority of the proposed arrivals on Friday evening would fall outside of the standard operating hours and would have a knock-on effect on cost and operations for Saturday freight and passenger sailings.”
It also cited concerns over how the service would be delivered, raising questions around the “availability” of Stena Vinga due to maintenance requirements – including during the proposed schedule.
“The committee considers that the proposal, as submitted, does not align with the
principles of reciprocity that have previously been articulated by both governments as
the basis for strengthening inter-island links,” the statement added.
“The committee has however, emphasised that it remains open to constructive dialogue
with DFDS, the Government of Jersey and Brittany Ferries to explore alternative
arrangements that could better meet the needs of islanders and businesses, and has
proposed several alternative solutions.”
Deputy Sasha Kazantseva Miller, who chairs the committee, noted that “the door is not closed”.
She said: “We remain very open to further discussions on potential solutions that are operationally viable, legally robust and capable of delivering a genuinely reciprocal service, comparable to the high-speed return model currently offered by Brittany Ferries.
“The committee has reiterated its position about the importance of working collaboratively with both DFDS and the States of Jersey directly or as part of the inter island ferry group to identify future opportunities that enhance inter-island connectivity, while ensuring fairness, sustainability and consistency with Guernsey’s operational requirements.”
It comes after two applications from Loganair to run lifeline routes to and from Guernsey – including inter-island flights – were rejected by a panel of Guernsey politicians earlier this year.
Guernsey’s Transport Licensing Authority issues air transport licences for designated essential routes to and from Guernsey, which includes Gatwick, Alderney and Southampton – with Jersey to become an essential route from 15 January. The TLA rejected LoganAir’s bids but approved a bid from Aurigny, which is wholly owned by the States of Guernsey.
DFDS was approached for comment.
