Ferry service terms of contract to be reviewed by Scrutiny panel

Jersey’s ferry contract will be examined to assess whether it will achieve the operational, service and economic outcomes expected by islanders.

The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel has announced a review into the Government’s contract with Danish shipping firm DFDS, which took over ferry routes in March 2025 and is due to provide the service for the next 20 years.

The panel said it had received a significant number of submissions from highlighting concerns about the company’s pricing structure, the cost of freight and the general level of service.

A review of the agreement, which was published by the Economic Development Department last month, has now been launched with a particular focus on the flat-rate charging system, levels of service, future investment in vessels, and transport of pets and accessibility.

Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel chair Deputy Montfort Tadier said: “The Ferry Service is a vital lifeline for all of us, whether for leisure or for getting goods into and off the Island.

“It is important, given the 20-year contract with DFDS, that we are assured the island has the best deal, especially with regard to the implications of the flat-rate card.

“The panel has heard mixed feedback on this and wants to speak to all stakeholders in order to understand the pricing for end users, not just from DFDS but also from third-party freight operators.

“From the submissions the panel has received, and from our recent hearing with retailers, it seems there are several concerns about how the current situation is impacting businesses, islanders and visitors alike.

“There has been a lot of focus on the tender process, but now it is essential that we ensure the concession agreement we have for the next 20 years, is fit for purpose.”

Islanders can share their views on any economic impact they have seen since the service was introduced by emailing scrutiny@gov.je.

The panel will present its findings and recommendations to the States Assembly before the end of the current political term.