Consideration is being given to the social and economic needs of people on the Isle of Man.

That’s the message from the Department of Infrastructure which says once these are determined they can be considered in relation to the new Strategic Sea Services Policy.

In the House of Keys yesterday South Douglas MHK Kate Beecroft asked Minister Ray Harmer what plans he had to look at reduced duration of crossings and lower costs of travel.

It’s one of the eight strategic principles for the provision of sea services and follows a decision taken by Tynwald to purchase the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

A new Sea Services Agreement is due to be signed between the DOI and the company within 12 months.