Concerns prompt review of DFDS ferry contract

The scrutiny panel said "a significant number" of concerns had been raised

Jersey's ferry service contract is to be reviewed less than a year after a new operator took over the routes.

The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel will examine the terms of the agreement with DFDS to assess whether it will achieve the expected operational, service and economic outcomes.

The panel said it had received "a significant number" of concerns from residents and businesses about the Danish firm's pricing structure, cost of freight and general level of service.

DFDS was handed the 20-year contract to provide services between Jersey, the UK and France in December 2024, before it took over the routes in March this year.

The panel had asked Minister for Sustainable Economic Development Kirsten Morel to publish the agreement to allow for appropriate scrutiny.

Following its publication in October, it said members had started evaluating the terms of the agreement - particularly the flat rate charging system, levels of service, future investment in vessels, transport of pets and accessibility.

Panel chairman Montfort Tadier said it was important "to be assured the island is getting the best deal".

Deputy Tadier said special attention would be paid to the flat rate card as "the panel has heard mixed feedback on this".

"From the submissions the panel has received, and from our recent hearing with retailers, it seems there are several concerns about how the current situation is impacting businesses, islanders and visitors alike," he said.

"There has been a lot of focus on the tender process, but now it is essential that we ensure the concession agreement we have for the next 20 years, is fit for purpose."

The panel will hold public hearings and was set to present its findings and recommendations to the States before the current political term ends in June 2026.