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Brittany Ferries submits Jersey-only ferry bid, but says joined-up approach is better for all
Brittany Ferries has confirmed its submission this morning (27 November 2024), to the Jersey-only ferry bid process. The company, which is majority shareholder in Condor Ferries, reiterates that it has the right fleet, experience and know-how to serve Jersey for the next 15 years.
The submission follows reassuring comments made by Ministers in States of Jersey Assembly on Monday. Independent assessors will be used to examine bids as part of the new streamlined Jersey-only process. Their recommendation will be taken to the Council of Ministers for final sign-off by the end of this week, or early next.
“We all recognise what has gone before and it has not been helpful or constructive, but I believe now is the time to look forward,” commented Christophe Mathieu CEO of Condor and of Brittany Ferries. “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.”
“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.”
While Brittany Ferries says it trusts in the independence of the new process, it will continue to scrutinise carefully the process, as well as discussions and questions in States of Jersey Assembly meetings.
“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,” concluded Mathieu.
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