The bidding process to operate ferry services to Guernsey and Jersey has officially begun.
The States of Guernsey and the Government of Jersey announced that the next phase of their joint procurement process for ferry services commenced on Tuesday.
Both governments are inviting tenders from applicants with the necessary experience and capability to manage the services. The deadline for bids is 8 July, with a final decision expected by the end of the year.
Earlier this year, both governments sought expressions of interest from companies interested in operating ferry services. Currently, Condor Ferries holds a contract with Jersey until next year, while Guernsey has a memorandum of understanding with the firm. Condor executives have stated that the company is well-positioned to continue operating ferry services in the Channel Islands.
Danish firm DFDS has expressed interest in bidding and has conducted berthing trials with its vessels in St Peter Port and St Helier harbours.
Deputy Neil Inder, President of Guernsey's Committee for Economic Development, emphasized that the process would be open and impartial, with significant updates provided as the tendering process progresses.
Mr. Inder stated, "We remain on track to complete the overall process and make a final decision before the end of the year, in time for the current agreement's conclusion."
Jersey's Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, Deputy Kirsten Morel, highlighted the governments' commitment to securing the best possible ferry services for the islands. "The islands are working together to find the operator that can deliver the best service in terms of resilience, reliability, passenger experience, and sustainability," he said.
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