Ben-my-Chree could be hired out to other islands

The Ben-my-Chree has been retained as a back-up vessel to the Manxman

The Isle of Man's former main passenger ferry could be made available on hire to other islands, the treasury minister has said.

The Ben-my-Chree became a back-up vessel to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's newest vessel, the Manxman, when it entered service in August.

Treasury Minister Alex Allinson said while the older ferry must be available for Manx services at particular times of year, it could be chartered out during other periods.

He said the vessel was currently crewed and on standby on a 12-hour notice period if required to step in for the Manxman.

The government-owned ferry firm is run at arms-length by a board of directors, with the Treasury as its only the shareholder.

'Support other islands'

Douglas South MHK Claire Christian asked whether the Ben-my-Chree's potential charter would contradict the Sea Services Agreement, which requires its availability as a back-up vessel.

Dr Allinson told the House of Keys the older ferry was required to be available to operate under the shorter notice period during the TT, Manx Grand Prix and Christmas periods, as well as at times when the Manxman was scheduled to be out of service.

At all other times the vessel must be available with "no less than 96 hours' notice" to cover passenger services for the new £80m vessel, he said.

It therefore "may be possible that the Ben-my-Chree could be hired out at various areas, particularly if she is needed to support other island dependencies”, he said.

The MV Arrow is also available to undertake back-up freight services, he added.