THE Steam Packet Company has confirmed that it will employ 29 fewer members of staff this year.

Last week the company announced that there would be fewer sailings to Ireland after it took the decision to withdraw the Snaefell from the operational fleet.

Mark Woodward, chief executive for the Steam Packet Company, said: "As a result of Snaefell being withdrawn Steam Packet staffing requirements will be lower than has been the case in previous years.

"There has been a necessary but limited reduction in staff numbers employed both ashore and afloat. We will employ 29 fewer staff this year - the majority of which are seafarers.

"The situation remains under review but it is not currently envisaged that there will be a need to reduce staffing requirements further."

As a result of the Snaefell being taken out of service there will be 11 fewer sailings on the Irish route. 

Also see: Irish route first casualty of Steam Packet freight row