Strangford to Portaferry ferry service resumes
- Published
MV Portaferry II developed a mechanical fault overnight on Monday
The Strangford Lough ferry service has resumed after being suspended.
The service has two ferries - MV Strangford II and MV Portaferry II - which sail between Strangford and Portaferry in County Down.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) said specialist engineers were working to fix both vessels after one developed an electronic fault and the other a mechanical problem.
The DfI apologised for any inconvenience caused.
Both ferries sailing between Strangford and Portaferry are out of action
The ferries are used by people travelling to work and, during term time, schoolchildren and teachers.
In the summer months many tourists use them.
MV Portaferry II developed a mechanical fault overnight on Monday. An electronic fault was identified as the MV Strangford II was undergoing routine maintenance, the department said.
Speaking before the service had resumed, Strangford MP Jim Shannon said it was frustrating and that problems with the ferry service were happening regularly.
"Those who depend on the ferry to get to work, or hospital appointments and depend on the ferry have been unable to do so," he said.
"I understand things break down but this is an integral part of travel for the area," he added.
The DfI said at least one vessel had been available for almost 99% of 7,500 sailings operated so far in the financial year.
"The ferries undergo annual refits, which take approximately six weeks, and during these periods no alternative vessel is available in the event of a breakdown," a spokesperson said.
"In addition, each ferry undergoes ongoing shorter duration maintenance while out of service."
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In April it was reported that MV Strangford II, which was brought into service in 2017 had not sailed in more than a year because of the installation of diesel particulate filters.
The Strangford Lough crossing was previously disrupted in April due to a week-long strike by ferry workers over pay and conditions.
During the strikes, bus services were put on for schoolchildren that use the ferry but locals said the roads were not suitable for daily travel.
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