Ferry firm working on plans to maintain services amid strike threat

Plans are being worked on for "maintaining lifeline services" ahead of possible strike action by crews, the Isle of Man's ferry firm said.

Members of the union Nautilus voted to support industrial action in an ongoing row over live on board arrangements.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said it would work with stakeholders to put contingencies in place to cover any action taken by the unions' members.

Nautilus previously said disruption would be likely after the ballot.

Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson said the government-owned ferry operator had "hoped all along to avoid this situation" but had also been "planning for the worst".

He said the firm would "now expect the union, its members and our officers to do what is in their power to minimise any impact on the travelling public" and residents who rely on the company on a daily basis, he said.

The union represents 48 of the ferry company's 70 officers, which include captains and engineering crews.

In a ballot that closed on Monday, 81% of respondents backed a walkout with 89% supporting action short of strike.

The current dispute, which has been ongoing since August, revolves around crews being asked to live on board the newest vessel Manxman instead of going home for rest periods when working sailings between Douglas and Heysham.

The company preciously said the new conditions would reduce the risk of cancellations, however the union said it would reduce its members time with friends and family.

The details and dates for any industrial action have not yet been released.

Members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers Union, which represents 70% of the firm's staff, have already agreed to the new contracts.

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