Jersey Government Seeks Further Legal Counsel Amid Ferry Operator Selection Delay

The Government of Jersey has obtained additional legal counsel as it works towards finalizing its choice of ferry operator. While the Channel Islands were anticipated to jointly declare their selection between Brittany Ferries and DFDS for ferry services, Guernsey independently announced its decision to partner with Brittany Ferries on 30 October. Deputy Kirsten Morel, who serves as Jersey’s Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, stated: “The complications created by the situation we find ourselves in are extensive.” He indicated that another announcement was scheduled for Tuesday. However, Deputy Montfort Tadier, chair of the economic scrutiny panel, requested a special session of the States Assembly “to bring some transparency to the process.” Morel expressed that he “understood the frustration of islanders that a decision has not yet been made” but noted that “positive discussions” occurred on Monday. He added: “We are considering the legal, commercial, and financial implications of the bids, including additional legal advice received today.” Tadier commented: “I think the public need to have confidence, and I think without information about how the decisions are being made, why we are at this impasse at the moment, it would seem, between the islands not agreeing, I think information needs to be put in the public domain, and that can only be done by the minister, and that’s why our panel is calling for a States debate.” He further stated that the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel “was ready to play its part as necessary.” He concluded: “It is also clear to the panel that whatever the outcome of the tender process, formal retrospective scrutiny is required.” According to maritime expert Alf Baird, he anticipates elevated prices regardless of which ferry company is ultimately selected. He remarked: “I’m not sure that either of the bids received are optimal because both represent quite high cost structures, a mix of conventional ships and high-speed tonnage. “Both probably mean a continuation of high costs, which means high prices for island users – freight and passengers – so I don’t see much changing here whoever is decided to be selected.” For further updates, BBC Jersey can be followed on X and Facebook. Story ideas may be submitted to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. This material is copyrighted by BBC 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external sites and details its policy on external linking.