Senior management of the Steam Packet Company have come under fire for receiving what are described as ‘obscene’ bonus payments.

During a three-hour debate in Tynwald last night (Wednesday), North Douglas member John Houghton (pictured) revealed in excess of ?10 million had been paid out.

He believes the money should have been invested back into the company, both to help passengers towards the cost of fares and, he said, as the Steam Packet had a woefully inadequate number of vessels: (audio clip)

Meanwhile, a three-man select committee is to examine the company’s fare structures over the past 12 months, as well as any increases and a comparison of prices when booking on and off-Island.

It will also consider whether the prices charged over the past year are fair and equitable and represent value for money and if excessive charging has taken place.

It follows an amendment from Chief Minister, Tony Brown, to a motion by Onchan MHK Peter Karran.

He’d wanted a select committee to investigate the user agreement and whether an alternative service to the Steam Packet would be desirable.

The committee, which will comprise Speaker of the House, Steve Rodan, South Douglas member Bill Malarkey and Juan Turner MLC, will report back to Tynwald in October.