The process of awarding the Jersey maritime service contract for the next fifteen years raises many questions. While Condor Ferries, owned by Brittany Ferries, has provided vital connections to the island for decades, the Jersey government appears determined to explore other options. A surprising and worrying situation, especially in view of the recent renewal of the Condor Ferries contract by Guernsey (boats going to Guernsey from Saint-Malo systematically stop in Jersey, for customs and to disembark passengers and freight) .
A contested historical actor
For sixty years, Condor Ferries has linked the Channel Islands to Brittany and England, transporting passengers and freight all year round. In 2019, Brittany Ferries became the majority shareholder of Condor with the aim of strengthening its activities and avoiding the arrival of foreign competitors in strategic ports such as Saint-Malo.
However, despite its experience and solidity, Condor Ferries faces an unexpected challenge in Jersey. The first call for tenders, intended to appoint a single operator for Jersey and Guernsey, failed, with Jersey choosing to launch an independent process after Guernsey’s decision to renew its confidence in Condor.
An opaque process and accusations of favoritism
The situation worsened when comments made by Jersey elected officials cast doubt on the financial and operational capacity of Condor Ferries. Kirsten Morel, Jersey’s Minister for Economic Development, notably revealed that Condor had requested financial support from the island’s government in 2023, fueling criticism.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of Transport of Jersey, Jean-Marc Roué, president of Brittany Ferries, expressed his surprise at these attacks:
“Never, during our 52 years of existence, have we abandoned a line or a territory due to lack of profitability. We are a trusted company and have responded to this call for tenders in good faith. »
The selection process was also marred by the withdrawal of a senior official from Jersey, accused of having publicly displayed his preference for the Danish company DFDS, a direct competitor of Condor Ferries.
A major economic and social issue
The connections provided by Condor Ferries are not just about transport. They constitute a real economic backbone for Jersey and its inhabitants. Freight, in particular, plays a key role in supplying the island. In 2024, Condor recorded a 25% increase in the number of passengers carried during the summer, proof of its central role for the local population and tourists.
Jean-Marc Roué recalled Brittany Ferries’ commitment:
“The Breton agricultural world, majority shareholder of Brittany Ferries since 1972, aims to contribute to the economic, tourist and cultural development of the regions served. We have honored this commitment to Guernsey and wish to continue to do so for Jersey. »
The choice of Jersey: an expected decision
Faced with this uncertainty, the Jersey government proposed a temporary seven-month extension to Condor’s contract, an offer the company refused. Now, a new “simple and quick” call for tenders is underway, with a decision expected before the end of November 2024.
If DFDS hopes to establish itself in the Western Channel, the Jersey population is wondering about the consequences of a change of operator. Concerns over continuity of service and supply are growing.
The final choice of Jersey will have to take into account economic, social and strategic issues. Condor Ferries, with its experience and its investments in a modernized fleet, remains a key player for the Channel Islands.
While Guernsey has renewed its confidence in Condor, Jersey seems to be hesitant, at the risk of compromising a long-standing relationship and the economic balance of the island. Jersey’s zeal could well prove costly, not only for Condor Ferries, but above all for the island’s residents.
The question remains unanswered: is Jersey ready to turn its back on a historic partner? The answer should come in the coming weeks.
Photo credit: DR
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