The economic development minister has announced that a new process to select the operator for Jersey’s sea links over the next 15 years will commence next week.
Deputy Kirsten Morel confirmed the decision after the collapse of the joint tender process with Guernsey. Guernsey had already selected Brittany Ferries as its preferred operator, while Jersey’s process faced setbacks. Morel explained in the States Assembly that the bid from DFDS was disqualified due to a "technical, legal" issue, and Condor Ferries failed to meet two mandatory scoring criteria. He stated that the new process would be expedited, with a decision expected by the end of the month.
A Better Proposal, but Legal Issues Persist
Morel revealed that DFDS had presented "clearly the better" proposal, offering faster fleet investment and greater corporate stability. However, the bid was invalidated due to unresolved legal technicalities.
The economic development minister also confirmed that Condor Ferries, not Brittany Ferries, was the other bidder. He expressed concerns about Condor’s financial stability, noting that their business plan relied on "overly optimistic growth projections" despite the company’s high debt levels.
Condor's bid failed due to fleet age requirements and financial viability issues. Morel added that Condor’s parent company, Brittany Ferries, clarified that any contract would be signed by Condor, not Brittany Ferries.
Seeking Clarity
Deputy Philip Ozouf voiced apprehension about awarding the contract to Condor Ferries, citing past performance issues. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Deputy Lyndon Farnham emphasised the need for direct discussions with Brittany Ferries about their intentions under the new process.
Farnham said, “We need clarity on whether Brittany Ferries will operate directly or continue through Condor.”
The government has invited Brittany Ferries and DFDS to clarify their proposals and will announce a preferred operator once the new process concludes.