Select a region
Brittany Ferries has thrown its hat into contention for a 'Jersey only' ferry contract, but the firm - which owns Condor Ferries - maintains that a joined up approach would be “better for all”.
The latest episode in the ongoing drama that’s leading both islands’ headlines sees Brittany Ferries still pursuing a 15-year contract to operate Jersey's passenger and freight ferry services.
DFDS remains in contention - against Brittany Ferries - to win the Jersey only contract too.
Christophe Mathieu, the CEO of Condor and Brittany Ferries - which has already won the contract in Guernsey - said they've opted to tender for the contract but still believe a pan-island contractor would be better.
“We welcome the independence of the new process and trust those involved in it to make the right decision based on the merit of bids received," he said.
“For our part, we have already shown our determination to hit the ground running. In Guernsey, schedules have now been agreed and books have opened for travel in 2025. However, the door is still open.
"Our ships are on stand-by, our schedules are ready and systems are go, for a joined-up approach that serves the needs of both islands. Everyone agrees that one operator serving mainland and intra-island services makes more sense than two.
“We will also do what we promise in our bid. With us there will be no volte face on things like minimum service levels or pricing, should an award be made in our favour.”
“There is a famous old proverb, that was popular in the 20th Century at times of détente: trust, but verify. This is a truism we will continue to apply to the new process.”
Pictured: Chief Executive Officer of both Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries, Christophe Mathieu.
The latest development comes after a series of questions were asked in Jersey's States Assembly earlier this week
Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham said discussions had been held with Jersey's two rival bidders, DFDS and Brittany Ferries, as well as the group which had given loans to the latter business.
Whilst Condor Ferries finances were called into question by Jersey's decision makes, it was revealed last week that the Danish shipping giant DFDS had received a "mandatory legal fail" in both islands because the operator allegedly requested a unilateral right to adjust pricing and sailing schedules.
Talks have taken place between Jersey's government and the banks lending money to Brittany Ferries
DFDS bid ruled out because it demanded unilateral right to change prices and services
ED "confident" in Guernsey-only ferry service
Jersey asks Condor to stay for seven more months
Condor: Did other ferry bidders plan to use our boats?
Jersey's government received "additional legal advice"
Ferry contract: Why Guernsey has picked Brittany Ferries
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.