The Steam Packet Company says it is developing a proposal for sea services to benefit island residents, visitors, businesses and the local economy.

The company says a 'revised framework' will be presented to the Department of Infrastructure.

It follows a statement from Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne in Tynwald last month where he laid out three options for the future and announced there would be a public consultation as part of a review of ferry services.

The Steam Packet's user agreement with the government expires in 2026. The options are to wait until 2022 on the basis that a new operator has four years to prepare to take over, agree to the Steam Packet's request to end the user agreement early and start the tender process, or to invite the Steam Packet to make an 'exceptional' new offer.

In a statement released today, the company says: 'The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has carefully considered the recent Tynwald statement made by Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for Infrastructure, in respect of future sea services.

'The Company notes the three options outlined by the Minister.

'The Company is now developing a proposal with a view to approaching the Department of Infrastructure with a revised framework for guaranteeing future sea services which benefit Island residents, visitors, businesses and the local economy. This proposal will take careful note of responses to the Department’s proposed public consultation.'

The Steam Packet says it won't be making any additional comment at this time.

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