Evening and overnight Manx ferry trips resume after union action ends

The new vessel Manxman was introduced into the Manx fleet in the summer

Manx passenger ferry sailings suspended during industrial action by some staff have been reinstated.

Evening and overnight crossings of the Manxman between Heysham and Douglas started again on Monday.

It followed several days of only one return sailing each day by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

The action short of strike by Nautilus members was stopped on Friday after the firm withdrew notice letters issued on 22 December.

The dispute between the government-owned ferry firm and the union centred on new contracts requiring staff to live aboard vessels during rest periods when on shift.

Nautilus represents 48 of the company's 70 officers.

The action, which included refusing to do overtime or cover for senior roles, started on 27 December.

That led to a reduction in passenger ferry services when a rostered officer had to take leave for personal reasons.

The two parties have agreed to continue negotiations with the Manx Industrial Relations Service, with follow-up meetings due to take place on 15 and 16 January.

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