The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has been advised by the Port of Heysham that normal service for its freight shipments is expected to resume for this afternoon’s (Tuesday) 14.15 Ben-my-Chree sailing from Heysham.
The Ben maintained its scheduled services but was not permitted by Heysham Port to discharge or load freight for this morning’s 02.15 sailing following a decision by the Port’s Health and Safety Committee. Passenger vehicles were not affected.
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward explains, "Along with many airports and other seaports, exceptional weather conditions have overwhelmed resources available.
"Over four inches of snow fell in a very short period and salt and grit supplies to the Port were exhausted. Because of the severe snow and ice, the Port’s Health & Safety Committee would not allow tug masters to operate.
"As a consequence, we were advised that no freight trailers could be discharged or loaded for this morning’s 02.15 sailing. However, we have been advised that the conditions have improved and this afternoon’s sailing will proceed as normal.
"Every effort is being made between the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and Heysham Port to ensure freight supplies, both to and from the Island, are maintained and the backlog cleared.
"We have made strong representations to the Port of Heysham urging them that all possible steps are taken in order to ensure that normal freight operations can continue over the next few days as we build up to Christmas."
