No 'secret' deal with Steam Packet over future sea services

The Steam Packet Company has not made a "secret" proposal to government over the future of sea services.

 

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne says he doesn't believe the process has been a secret - with it being brought up in Tynwald and discussed in the media.

 

Mr Gawne has also told Tynwald to expect more "clarity" on the issue in July. 

 

One of the options under consideration is to allow the company to propose a deal which offers such "exceptional value" to the Island that it outweighs the need to go out to competitive tender. 

 

It left Douglas East MHK Chris Robertshaw raising concerns about timing in light of the upcoming General Election: